BAE Systems Secures $48 Million Contract to Enhance Military Intelligence Data Analytics Platform
U.S. defense contractor BAE Systems has secured a $48 million contract from the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to further develop and enhance an existing data analytics platform used by military intelligence analysts.
3 minute read•Updated 3:39 AM EDT, Fri August 9, 2024
U.S. defense contractor BAE Systems has secured a $48 million contract from the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to further develop and enhance an existing data analytics platform used by military intelligence analysts. The platform, known as Insight, is designed to integrate and analyze data from a variety of sources including sensors, satellites, drones, and human intelligence.
The newly awarded contract aims to add new features and capabilities to the Insight platform, enabling it to better support the complex and demanding needs of military intelligence operations. The AFRL's goal is to improve the system’s ability to synthesize and process vast amounts of data from multiple domains, providing intelligence analysts with more accurate and actionable insights.
Evolution of the Insight Program
The Insight program has a history rooted in the innovative efforts of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). Originally managed by DARPA, the program has undergone significant evolution since its inception.
In 2014, BAE Systems was awarded a $79 million contract by DARPA to develop advanced data analysis tools under the Insight program. These tools were specifically aimed at streamlining the work of intelligence analysts who were previously overwhelmed by the sheer volume and complexity of data they had to process manually.
The Insight platform leverages cutting-edge technologies such as data fusion, predictive analytics, machine learning, and automation. These capabilities allow the system to process and analyze large volumes of data in real-time, which is crucial for military intelligence analysis in fast-paced and complex operational environments.
Advancements and New Capabilities
With the new contract, BAE Systems will continue to build on its previous work with the Insight platform. The focus will be on developing techniques for generating intelligence from multiple sensors, domains, and types of information. This will include enhancing the platform’s ability to integrate data from diverse sources and improve the accuracy and speed of intelligence generation.
“The Insight system leverages machine learning and autonomy-based solutions to help intelligence analysts process massive volumes of complex data and quickly translate it into actionable intelligence,” - Meg Redlin, BAE Systems Product Line Director for Mission Systems
The improvements to the Insight platform are expected to significantly enhance the U.S. military’s ability to process and utilize data from a wide range of sources, providing a more comprehensive and accurate picture of the operational environment.
Nationwide Effort
Work on the Insight program will be primarily conducted at BAE Systems’ facilities in San Diego. However, the project will also involve contributions from engineering teams located across the United States, ensuring that the best expertise and resources are brought to bear on this critical project.
As BAE Systems embarks on this next phase of the Insight program, the enhancements to the platform are anticipated to provide U.S. military intelligence analysts with even more powerful tools to support their mission of protecting national security.
RELATED STORIES
As a journalist Zac writes about space exploration, technology, and science. He has covered Inspiration-4, Artemis-1, Starship IFT-1, AX-2 on location.