CONSHOHOCKEN, PA — ZE Government Solutions (ZEGS) recently announced it has been awarded a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II contract by AFWERX, amounting to $1,247,962. This initiative aims to enhance security and situational awareness around the Department of the Air Force’s (DAF) critical assets at Joint Base Charleston.
The contract focuses on the development of the ZE Coastal Alert System (Z-CAS), a state-of-the-art digital and portable solution designed to safeguard over $7.5 billion worth of base property and capital assets. These assets span across extensive infrastructure, including three seaports, two civilian-military airfields, 39 miles of rail, and 22 miles of coastline. By integrating advanced radars and artificial intelligence for threat detection, alongside an aggregation platform for command and control operations, Z-CAS promises to equip the U.S. Air Force with enhanced capabilities to face future security challenges head-on.
This award is part of a broader effort by the Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX to revitalize the SBIR and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. Since 2018, these programs have sought to widen the scope of innovation within the DAF by simplifying the proposal and award process, expanding access to small businesses, and streamlining bureaucratic procedures. The ultimate goal is to fast-track the deployment of innovative solutions that bolster national defense.
Mike Lahiff, CEO and co-founder of ZeroEyes, the parent company of ZEGS, emphasized the groundbreaking potential of the ZE Coastal Alert System. “The ZE Coastal Alert System will proactively identify, track, and respond to imminent threats in real-time, providing warning and actionable intelligence where traditional coastal security may face challenges,” said Lahiff. His statement highlights the system’s capability to offer a proactive response to threats, a critical advantage over conventional security measures that may struggle in dynamic coastal environments.
The selection of ZEGS for this SBIR Phase II contract highlights the vital role of innovative small businesses in enhancing the United States’ national defense infrastructure. As ZEGS embarks on this project in March 2024, its work on the Z-CAS is set to mark a pivotal advancement in coastal security technology, ensuring that the Air Force is better equipped to protect its valuable assets against evolving threats.
The implications of this contract extend beyond the immediate benefits of improved security for Air Force assets. It represents a model for future defense innovation, showcasing how leveraging cutting-edge technology and small business ingenuity can lead to substantial enhancements in national security. As threats become more sophisticated, initiatives like the ZE Coastal Alert System will be crucial in maintaining the safety and operational readiness of U.S. military installations worldwide.
Note: The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.
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