Latest news with #AFRL
Yahoo
05-08-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
SIX COMPANIES SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN CATALYST ACCELERATOR'S DIRECTED ENERGY & ELECTROMAGNETIC WARFARE COHORT
The Colorado Springs Program Hosts Its 15th Accelerator Directed Energy and Electromagnetic Warfare Cohort Colorado Springs, Colorado, Aug. 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Catalyst Accelerator is excited to announce the selection of 6 outstanding small businesses with innovative, complementary tech solutions. These companies will come together from across the world to participate in the Accelerator's 15th cohort focused on Directed Energy (DE) and Electromagnetic Warfare (EW). The Catalyst Accelerator, powered by the Air Force Research Laboratory Space Vehicles Directorate (AFRL/RV), exists to empower nontraditional technology companies to accelerate their involvement in the national defense ecosystem by providing connections, mentorship, and business development in a collaborative setting for a lasting national impact. The evolving nature of space and electromagnetic warfare necessitates the development and integration of advanced technologies to ensure mission success and strategic superiority. The U.S. Space Force and the Space Security and Defense Program (SSDP) are particularly interested in technologies that enable adaptive and predictive EW through AI/ML, Cognitive Electronic Support (ES) for robust signal identification, and real-time spectrum analysis for threat detection. The DE & EW (#CADEW) cohort is the first Accelerator executed in partnership with the SSDP. Major Joshua Haneline, Deputy Division Chief of the Electromagnetic Warfare Division at the SSDP, shared his thoughts on pitch days for the #CADEW cohort: 'The Space Security and Defense Program is excited to see such a diverse set of technologies in the Electromagnetic Warfare and Directed Energy Sector. We are looking forward to bringing these small businesses together to develop innovative solutions for the warfighter.' The #CADEW cohort will meet two weeks per month beginning 19 August and end on 21 November 2025. During the program, each company will collaborate with subject matter experts, engage with Government and Commercial Navigators, and complete an intensive business development and customer discovery process. The cohort experience will culminate in a Demo Day on November 20th, where companies will pitch their technology to government, industry partners, and investors assessing the potential of the technologies. The Catalyst Accelerator team, with technical advisement from government, industry, and academia, underwent a rigorous selection process in order to carefully choose the companies for the #CADEW cohort. The following startups were chosen based on their demonstrated potential and innovative capability solutions: Aptos Orbital (Palo Alto, CA) Aptos Orbital is building the infrastructure to connect and compute across space. Our real-time RF mesh network enables satellites to exchange data directly, without needing ground stations, using a resilient, decentralized architecture inspired by the internet. We've flight-proven our compact, low-power terminals and are deploying them across a variety of missions and orbits to support our customers. With always-available connectivity and a space-first approach to networking, Aptos empowers the DoD to act faster and defend smarter in the electromagnetic domain. Dcubed USA (Berthoud, CO) Dcubed's vision is to build the next generation of in-space manufactured (ISM) infrastructure, where the capabilities of space systems are uncoupled from the size of the spacecraft bus or launcher. Dcubed has built a reputation for providing reliable spacecraft actuators and mechanisms with responsive lead times, which we will uphold with new, more powerful solar array and antenna systems derived from common ISM structures technologies. In the near future, we see small spacecraft from both the defense and civil space domains taking on new challenging missions powered by Dcubed's ISM solar array and antenna products. Millennial Software (Chantilly, VA) At Millennial Software, we accelerate decision advantage in space through AI-powered Space Battle Management and autonomous operations. Our vision is a world where space superiority is achieved through speed, clarity, and trusted machine intelligence. Millennial Software delivers next-generation Space Battle Management platforms that shrink decision timelines from minutes to seconds. Our flagship products—Skyward, a modular operations suite, and Keystone, a machine learning orchestration engine—enable warfighters to detect threats, assess intent, and execute rapid courses of action across dynamic orbital environments. We are actively demonstrating this capability in the SDA TAP Lab, our software equips government and commercial partners with the tools to maintain mission advantage through dynamic intelligence, intuitive workflows, and seamless integration across hybrid and classified environments. Overwatch OT (Lakewood Ranch, FL) Overwatch OT is a technical innovator specializing in Artificial Intelligence, Electronic Warfare, and Cyber technical systems. We push the boundaries of what's possible, creating advanced solutions that redefine how critical missions are executed and secured. Our flagship system, TopHat, delivers next-generation EW and cyber training, empowering operators with unmatched speed, precision, and adaptability. At Overwatch OT, we make the impossible possible—turning cutting-edge concepts into mission-ready capabilities. Quadsat (Odense, Denmark) Quadsat delivers agile solutions for RF spectrum testing, antenna validation, and electromagnetic environment monitoring tailored for the demands of modern defense operations. Our modular systems, designed for seamless integration across diverse operational platforms, enable EMCON testing, real-time spectrum mapping, RF geolocation, and advanced electromagnetic warfare (EW) signal analysis directly in the field. Bypassing the constraints of static infrastructure, Quadsat empowers multi-domain operational readiness by validating antenna and system performance in contested and congested spectral environments. Trusted by NATO partners and defense primes including SES and Viasat Government, our technology underpins spectrum dominance, system resilience, and mission assurance across a broad range of tactical scenarios. RedTail Technology (Sydney, Australia) RedTail Technology (RTT) is an Australian defence startup specializing in artificial intelligence and directed energy laser technology. Our vision is to realise handheld energy weapons. RTT's current focus is the development of the Katoomba counter-uncrewed aerial system (C-UAS) directed energy system, an AI-infused, handheld, lightweight and versatile protection system for critical infrastructure and Defense applications against hostile or unauthorised UAS platforms. The Catalyst Accelerator is proud to help accelerate innovation and advance cutting-edge technologies in the space sector. By connecting promising startups with government and industry experts, the Accelerator supports the rapid development and transition of solutions that will influence the future of United States space superiority. About Catalyst Accelerator The Air Force Research Laboratory Space Vehicles Directorate and United States Space Force's Catalyst Accelerator is a NewSpace-focused defense and national security industry accelerator, headquartered on the Catalyst Campus for Technology and Innovation (CCTI) in Colorado Springs, Colorado. CCTI, a Colorado 501(c)3), is a collaborative ecosystem where industry, small business, entrepreneurs, startups, government, academia, and investors intersect with Colorado's aerospace and defense industry to create community, spark innovation, and stimulate business growth. Attachment Directed Energy and Electromagnetic Warfare Cohort CONTACT: Shae Thomas Catalyst Accelerator Program Director 719-465-7556 in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Business Wire
01-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Momentus and Orbit Fab Partner to Advance Space Servicing with Podracer and RAFTI Demonstration Flight
SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Momentus Inc. (NASDAQ: MNTS), a leading U.S. commercial space company specializing in satellite solutions, transportation, and in-space infrastructure, has signed a contract with Orbit Fab to provide hosted payload services for the on-orbit demonstration of Podracer, a space domain awareness payload, and the Rapidly Attachable Fluid Transfer Interface (RAFTI). The mission is scheduled to launch no earlier than February 2026 aboard a SpaceX Transporter rideshare mission. Fueling the future of space—Momentus and Orbit Fab demonstrates next-gen refueling and sensing technologies—delivering agile operations and mission resilience in orbit. Funded by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Podracer will conduct a flight demonstration of infrared imaging sensors, image processing technology, and a control module to enhance space domain awareness aboard the Vigoride 7 orbital service vehicle (OSV). Podracer will also be used as part of a rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO) demonstration mission that Momentus plans to conduct during the Vigoride 7 mission using a system developed by Momentus. Through Vigoride's communications and data transfer systems, Orbit Fab will operate the Podracer payload remotely from its Mission Operations Center in Colorado, ensuring real-time control and monitoring of the hosted payload mission. During the Vigoride 7 mission, Momentus and Orbit Fab plan to conduct the first flight demonstration of a hydrazine compatible, Space Systems Command approved RAFTI. Orbit Fab's advanced refueling interface is designed to extend the operational lifespan of satellites, by enabling spacecraft docking and refueling, thereby eliminating the current limitations imposed by onboard fuel reserves. This advancement is expected to significantly reduce costs and improve operational flexibility for satellite operators by mitigating mission constraints caused by fuel shortages. 'We are thrilled to collaborate with Orbit Fab to demonstrate the Podracer and RAFTI payloads to continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in space servicing and space domain awareness,' said Momentus CEO John Rood. 'The new contract with Orbit Fab adds another advanced technology payload to what will be an exciting mission early next year in which Momentus will support several cutting-edge payloads from the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, AFRL, and innovative early-stage space companies.' "We're excited to be working with Momentus as we advance the future of in-space mobility and dynamic space operations,' said Dr. Melissa Sampson, Vice President of Business Development, at Orbit Fab. 'Our collaboration underscores the critical role of on-orbit refueling for increasing satellite maneuverability and mission life. Together, we're pushing the boundaries of space technology and enabling a more agile and sustainable infrastructure in orbit.' This launch marks Momentus' fourth Vigoride mission and its first collaboration with Orbit Fab. In addition to Podracer, Momentus will provide transportation and hosted payload support during the Vigoride 7 mission for several additional commercial and U.S. government customers, including the U.S. Defense Department. As demand for Vigoride missions continues to grow, Momentus is actively planning a follow up mission using its Vigoride 8 OSV. Government and commercial customers interested in launching microsatellites up to 200 kg, cubesats, and hosted payloads in LEO are encouraged to contact the Momentus Commercial Team at sales@ for booking opportunities while space remains available. About Momentus Momentus is a U.S. commercial space company offering satellites, satellite components, and in-space transportation and infrastructure services. The Company offers satellites to support government and commercial customers for missions like communications, missile tracking, and cutting-edge science missions. Momentus offers services such as hosted payloads, support for in-space assembly, on-orbit servicing and refueling, and transportation of satellites to specific orbits. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains certain statements which may constitute 'forward-looking statements' for purposes of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the expected filing of the Company's Form 10-K and Form 10-Q and its management team's expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future, projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, and are not guarantees of future performance. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of Momentus' control. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including but not limited to risks and uncertainties included under the heading 'Risk Factors' in the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed by the Company on April 9, 2025, as such factors may be updated from time to time in our other filings with the Commission, accessible on the Commission's website at and the Investor Relations section of our website at Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and, except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
Yahoo
26-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
BILT awarded $15 Million STRATFI contract to support US Air Force maintainers
GRAPEVINE, Texas, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BILT Incorporated, creators of 3D Intelligent Instructions®, has been awarded a $15 million Strategic Funding Increase (STRATFI) contract by the United States Air Force. The multi-year initiative will expand interactive training and maintenance capabilities across a range of Air Force operations, enabling airmen to complete complex tasks faster, more accurately, and with greater confidence. The AFWERX award, funded by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is one of the most competitive funding vehicles within the Department of Defense and represents a major step forward in the USAF's modernization of technical training and sustainment efforts. BILT's mobile platform and spatial computing capabilities will be used to enhance readiness, safety, and standardization across mission-critical roles. 'We're honored to support airmen with the knowledge and tools they need in high-stakes environments,' said BILT President & COO Ahmed Qureshi. 'This award reflects the strength of our technology and the dedication of our team to deliver scalable, intuitive solutions that meet the evolving demands of national defense.' The contract builds on a series of successful pilots and Phase I/II SBIR programs that demonstrated BILT's ability to transform traditional manuals into 3D guides. The platform allows airmen to access interactive instructions on mobile devices and immersive procedures on Apple Vision Pro, both on and off the grid. Link to video: About BILT: Millions of users follow 3D Intelligent Instructions for thousands of products from hundreds of brands. BILT revolutionizes professional training, operational enablement, and the user experience for assembly, installation, maintenance, and repair. The award-winning platform delivers turnkey interactive instructions on iOS, Android, Windows, and immersive spatial computing instructions on Apple Vision Pro. BILT is accessible, sustainable, and efficient. Contact: Juliette Qureshi VP, PR & Media Comms Juliette@ 703-554-3020 About AFRL:The Air Force Research Laboratory, or AFRL, is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace forces. With a workforce spanning across nine technology areas and 40 other operations around the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit About AFWERXAs the innovation arm of the DAF and a directorate within the Air Force Research Laboratory, AFWERX brings cutting-edge American ingenuity from small businesses and start-ups to address the most pressing challenges of the DAF. AFWERX employs approximately 370 military, civilian and contractor personnel at four hubs and sites executing an annual $1.4 billion budget. Since 2019, AFWERX has awarded over 10,400 contracts worth more than $7.24 billion to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base and drive faster technology transition to operational capability. For more information, visit: A video accompanying this announcement is available at in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
11-06-2025
- Yahoo
Air Force tests new ship-killing bomb variant
The Air Force has tested a new variation of its ship-killing Quicksink guided bomb to expand its options for taking out enemy vessels in a future war. In a June 4 statement, the service said it dropped a 500-pound version of Quicksink, made from a GBU-38 Joint Direct Attack Munition, or JDAM, from a B-2 Spirit stealth bomber at Eglin Air Force Base's Gulf Test Range off the coast of Florida. Previous Quicksink tests were conducted with 2,000-pound bombs. Quicksink is the Air Force Research Laboratory's effort to strengthen its ability to take out enemy ships. This capability would be particularly important in the event of a conflict with China over Taiwan, which would likely involve grueling fighting in the Pacific Ocean and require U.S. forces to destroy Chinese ships. Previous tests used modified GBU-31 JDAMs to destroy target vessels. Those JDAMs are guided by GPS and use fins to steer towards the target as they fall. AFRL previously said that it redesigned the JDAM's nose plug to better suit it for maritime strikes. A stock JDAM nose might cause the bomb to carom off the surface of the water in unexpected directions instead of striking its target, AFRL said, but the Quicksink redesign is meant to keep it on target. Quicksink bombs do not travel under the water towards their target like traditional torpedoes. The Air Force says modifying existing guided bombs into Quicksink weapons would provide anti-ship capability at a lower cost than weapons like torpedoes. The Air Force said in its statement that the new Quicksink variant would expand the B-2's targeting reach by giving combatant commanders more options for striking enemy targets. AFRL declined to further detail how the 500-pound version provides more targeting options or when the latest test took place, citing security concerns. 'Quicksink offers an affordable, game-changing solution to rapidly and efficiently sink maritime targets,' Col. Dan Lehoski, commander of Eglin's 53rd Wing, said in a statement. 'AFRL's 500-pound Quicksink variant adds options for the warfighter and enhances operational flexibility.' AFRL said video of the latest test is classified and could not be released. But a previous video posted in 2022 shows a Quicksink bomb streaking towards an empty vessel before exploding, cleaving the ship in half and sending it underwater in a matter of seconds.
Miami Herald
05-06-2025
- Science
- Miami Herald
US tests bomb that splits ships in half
By Dean Murray The U.S. has successfully tested a lighter version of a bomb that can blast huge ships in half. The U.S. Air Force (USAF) said Wednesday (June 4) they dropped a 500-pound QUICKSINK munition from a B-2 Spirit stealth bomber. It follows a dramatic 2022 trial where a larger 2,000-pound variant was used to destroy a full-scale surface vessel. The USAF say the smaller version of the precision-guided bomb offers a lower-cost anti-ship weapon, with more being able to be carried by bombers and fighter jets. Col. Dan Lehoski, 53rd Wing commander, said: "QUICKSINK offers an affordable, game-changing solution to rapidly and efficiently sink maritime targets. "AFRL's 500-pound QUICKSINK variant adds options for the warfighter and enhances operational flexibility." The live-fire exercise was a collaborative effort between Air Force Materiel Command's Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and Air Force Test Center and Air Combat Command's 53rd Wing. Col. Matthew Caspers, AFRL Munitions Directorate commander, said: "QUICKSINK is the result of a Joint collaboration that rapidly prototyped an affordable concept for holding surface targets at risk." It has not been reported what target the new variant was used against. The post US tests bomb that splits ships in half appeared first on Talker. Copyright Talker News. All Rights Reserved.
