Technical Data Package Modernization for Information Assurance and Secure Data Exchange

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 3.5 of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

The objective of this Directed to Phase II (D2P2) SBIR effort is to develop an innovative, secure, and scalable solution for modernizing Technical Data Packages (TDPs) associated with complex Air and Space Force platforms. This initiative seeks to address challenges in managing large, diverse datasets by enhancing configuration control, ensuring data integrity, and strengthening Information Assurance (IA) in support of mission-critical operations. Specifically, the focus of this phase is to demonstrate the feasibility of advanced technologies that enable secure data lifecycle management and seamless data exchange within operational environments. Proposed solutions should align with Trusted AI and Autonomy modernization priorities by incorporating robust cybersecurity measures and leveraging cutting-edge advancements in autonomy, data management, and secure manufacturing capabilities. Outcomes of this phase are expected to validate technical concepts and establish a functional prototype that meets the operational imperative of readiness to deploy and fight, contributing to future scalability and transition opportunities in operational use cases.

Background and Problem Statement:

The modernization of Technical Data Packages (TDPs) is imperative to address the Air and Space Force’s operational challenges in securely managing large-scale, complex datasets associated with advanced platforms and their sustainment life cycles. Current TDP systems often lack robust Information Assurance (IA) capabilities, seamless integration with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) environments, and effective mechanisms for secure data exchange across operational networks. This limitation not only hinders data integrity and configuration control but also increases vulnerabilities to cyber threats, jeopardizing mission-critical operations. The rapid pace of platform evolution and the increasing reliance on Model-Based Definition (MBD) and digital twin technologies further exacerbate the need for a comprehensive solution that ensures TDP security, scalability, and operational readiness.

Opportunity and Desired Outcome:

This Directed to Phase II (D2P2) SBIR effort aims to develop an innovative, scalable, and secure solution to modernize TDPs to support the lifecycle of highly complex Air and Space Force platforms. The envisioned solution will integrate advanced IA protocols, cryptographic protections, and tools for encrypted data exchange to facilitate the secure management of the "as-sustained" configuration state of critical assets. The outcome will be a functional prototype capable of enabling secure TDP lifecycle management while aligning with the Trusted AI and Autonomy modernization priorities and Zero Trust Architecture principles. The proposed solution will enhance operational efficiency, minimize cyber risks, and establish a foundation for scalable implementation across DoD platforms.

The project’s Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at the start is anticipated to be TRL 4, with the target of reaching a minimum TRL 6 by the conclusion of Phase II, including validation of core capabilities in a relevant operational environment.

Required Efforts and Phase Activities:

To achieve the stated objectives, the following efforts and activities are required for each phase of the project:

Phase II:

Develop a secure visualization tool for displaying large-scale MBD geometry and associated data through encrypted web-based interfaces.

Implement an encrypted configuration management system to maintain and update the "as-sustained" asset state while ensuring strict data integrity.

Create advanced tools for automated data quality checks, incorporating rules-based IA compliance validation to ensure all TDPs meet security and contractual requirements.

Design an end-to-end encrypted exchange framework for TDPs, incorporating user authentication, authorization, and audit trails while conforming to DoD Zero Trust Architecture guidelines.

Integrate AI/ML methodologies to enable secure damage detection, sustainment planning, and actionable insights into asset health.

Demonstrate the prototype in an operationally relevant environment, proving feasibility, security compliance, and system performance in handling large and diverse data streams.

Minimum Deliverables:

A secure web-based MBD visualization prototype capable of rendering large-scale geometry and TDP datasets with sub-second response times and role-based access controls.

Tools for encrypted configuration management and secure "as-sustained" state maintenance, integrated with PLM systems.

An automated framework for data quality checks and IA compliance validation of TDPs using defined security protocols and rules-based engines.

A cryptographic data transfer and exchange framework, with test results demonstrating alignment with DoD security policies and successful inter-organizational data exchange.

Technical documentation detailing methodologies, system architecture, and IA protocols implemented during the project, including recommendations for further scaling and operationalization.

A transition plan for integrating the developed TDP modernization technology into operational environments within the Air and Space Force platforms, supported by a detailed commercialization strategy aligned with mission needs.

Significance and Contribution to DoD Objectives:

The proposed solution directly addresses the Operational Imperative 7—Readiness to Deploy and Fight—by delivering secure and reliable tools for managing critical asset data. The project also supports the DoD’s Trusted AI and Autonomy priorities by incorporating advanced data protection mechanisms, secure autonomous processes, and scalable solutions for data management across platforms. Successful execution of this effort will enhance the DoD’s ability to maintain readiness, ensure data security, and streamline collaboration with stakeholders while safeguarding sensitive information in a rapidly evolving threat landscape.

As this is a Direct-to-Phase-II (D2P2) topic, no Phase I awards will be made. Offerors must demonstrate completion of Phase I feasibility research and development that is not based upon or logically extend from any prior or ongoing federally funded SBIR or STTR work, demonstrating clear technical merit, alignment with Trusted AI/Autonomy priorities, and DoD Zero Trust standards, such as validated data, performance metrics, technical reports, prototype success, or demonstrated capabilities in relevant operational environments.

The Phase II effort will deliver a secure, scalable prototype for modernizing Technical Data Packages (TDPs). Focus areas include encrypted configuration management, MBD visualization tools, automated IA compliance frameworks, and secure data exchange via Zero Trust Architecture. The solution will achieve TRL 6 with validated performance in operational environments, aiding readiness and alignment with Trusted AI and Autonomy priorities.

The Phase III effort will advance the secure TDP modernization prototype to TRL 8, employing non-SBIR funds to integrate with Air and Space Force systems. Military applications include secure lifecycle management of technical data for advanced platforms, enhancing readiness and cybersecurity. Commercial use spans aerospace, manufacturing, and defense industries for data security and configuration management. Transition efforts target expanded adoption within DoD and allied partners.