Keith J. Masback

Does the potential rigidity of the IRM&CM process (AJP 2.7) apply to rapidly changing battlespaces? Contemporary warfare demands immediate responsiveness and flexibility, posing challenges to traditional ISR workflows that may take days or weeks to develop. To address this, here are some key actions to enhance ISR capabilities: - **Real-Time Adjustments**: Incorporate mechanisms for real-time adjustments within the IRM&CM process to quickly revise collection plans and re-task ISR assets based on immediate operational needs and intelligence updates. - **Shorter Planning Cycles**: Implement shorter, iterative planning cycles for more frequent updates and revisions to the collection plan. - **Leveraging Advanced Technologies**: Utilize AI, machine learning algorithms, and automation to process data quickly, identify patterns, and provide actionable intelligence in near real-time. Other strategies include empowering field units, establishing forward-deployed ISR cells, investing in real-time communication networks, utilizing integrated command and control systems, and deploying flexible ISR platforms. Additionally, conducting frequent training exercises and scenario-based simulations are vital to prepare ISR personnel for dynamic environments. While the traditional IRM&CM process offers a structured approach to ISR operations, adapting it to the fast-paced nature of contemporary warfare is crucial. These measures can enhance NATO's ISR capabilities, ensuring better support for rapidly changing battlespaces.

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In a move to streamline technology transitions, Heidi Shyu, Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, has inaugurated the Transition Tracking Action Group (TTAG). This advisory body, established March 13, is set to harness advanced data analytics to track how the Department of Defense (DoD) delivers capabilities to the field. Chaired by the R&E's chief data officer, Cyrus Jabbari, and comprising senior representatives from the military services and offices under the Secretary of Defense, TTAG aims to improve the visibility and management of the DoD's technology transition processes. The goal of this initiative seeks to ensure the timely and cost-effective delivery of state-of-the-art systems and equipment to military personnel. To do this, the department will seek understand what the primary obstacles to transition are and if the measures it undertakes to improve outcomes are yielding desired effects. The TTAG will create a department-wide method to track technology transition and determine the reasons capability-enhancing technologies do or do not transition, to enable the Joint Force to deter and, if necessary, prevail in contested environments.

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Boosting, because your time is valuable, & Pete & Matt get right to the point with what you need to know. #acquisition #contracting

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As promised, I can now share the interview with SAIC 's Jay Meil and Joshua Conine . Thanks to Air & Space Forces Association for the great interview. Listen in if you are curious about data, ai and ml for national defense. https://lnkd.in/eeQ28sJd

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Important reporting by The Wall Street Journal about the economics of shipbuilding, and the people who perform this critical work for the Navy and the nation. We need to support shipbuilders in every way we can. At HII, we are proud to be at the forefront of building the next generation of nuclear submarines, a cornerstone of our national security strategy. Thanks to Greg Ip for your care with the subject, the people, and the facts.

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Great article coming out of coverage at Space Symposium last week discussing the recently released DoD Commercial Space Integration Strategy and the benefits and challenges of government and commercial space industry working together. #CyberSatSummit dives into this critical discussion in November and tackles the all important information sharing topic as well. Interested in learning more about CyberSat, find out here: https://lnkd.in/emfraRRn DM me if interested in speaking/sponsoring or if you'd like to learn more. #spaceindustry #cybersecurity #informationsharing https://lnkd.in/eNNvAbiP

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The Sentinel ICBM program's cost overruns highlight the need for integrated acquisition strategies that address both missile systems & infrastructure. CRG provides expertise in navigating these complex landscapes, aligning strategies with compliance & engaging stakeholders to ensure clients lead in delivering innovative, cost-effective defense solutions. CRG’s SME-Based Opportunities, INTERIM Advice & Differentiators: Opp - Holistic Acquisition Strategies: Prioritize a balanced approach that integrates missile systems w/ critical infrastructure. · Advice: Use digital engineering tools to simulate full system lifecycles, identifying cost drivers early. · Differentiator: CRG’s lifecycle cost analysis helps clients foresee risks, optimizing missile & infrastructure components. Opp - Open Competition for Infrastructure: Encourage competitive sourcing for infrastructure to drive innovation & cost reductions. · Advice: Advocate for modular design principles & open competition strategies for ground elements. ·   Differentiator: CRG connects clients with top-tier SMEs & suppliers for cost-effective, modular solutions. Opp - Agile Contracting Models: Use agile contracting to adapt to evolving program requirements. ·   Advice: Employ OTAs & phased contracts to incorporate new tech flexibly. ·   Differentiator: CRG’s contracting expertise balances innovation w/ compliance, speeding up project timelines. Opp - Advanced Cost Management: Employ predictive analytics for proactive cost control. ·   Advice: Use AI-driven forecasting to continuously monitor expenses & identify savings opportunities. ·   Differentiator: CRG’s cost optimization strategies ensure clients manage budgets effectively, avoiding overruns. Opp - Digital Twins Integration: Utilize digital twin tech for real-time insights into system performance. · Advice: Invest in digital twins for predictive maintenance & proactive lifecycle management. · Differentiator: CRG’s digital twin integration enhances system reliability & readiness. Opp - Collaborative Engineering: Foster government-industry collaboration to refine designs & address challenges. · Advice: Form IPTs to refine designs & address technical issues iteratively. ·   Differentiator: CRG’s collaborative approach ensures efficient, unified program outcomes. CRG’s expertise positions us as the partner of choice for defense contractors aiming to lead in the program. Engage with CRG to leverage these opportunities and drive your success in advancing national security. Connect at crgroupinc.com or [email protected]. #USAF #AirForce #DoD #Acquisition #MissileDefense #ICBM #CostManagement #InnovationInDefense #Engineering #Hardware #SDLC #Software #Procurement #NorthropGrumman #Boeing #LockheedMartin #Raytheon #GeneralDynamics #BAE #L3Harris #Leidos #Aerojet #Honeywell #Parsons #OrbitalATK #Kratos #Textron #Dynetics #SierraNevada #Teledyne #SAIC #Perspecta #JacobsEngineering #Bechtel #GeneralAtomics #CACI #ManTech #HII

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Hwa Yu is CEO of Delta One LLC, a U.S. consulting firm on industrial cooperation and Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Brian Hobbs is a PhD candidate at Virginia Tech. "Discussions about an RDP-A between the U.S. and South Korea have been on and off since the late 1980s. Unsurprisingly, in Korea, the main reasons for not signing the RDP-A remain unchanged for almost four decades, even though its defense industry has become globally competitive and mature — exceeding 15 billion dollars in average annual defense industry exports and aiming to be among top four defense exporters globally by 2027. The greatest concern for Korean defense industries revolves around full and open mutual access to each other’s defense market. RDP-A opponents in Korea fear that the technologically advanced U.S. defense industry could dominate the market, weakening the local industrial base, if U.S. companies gain unrestricted access. Additionally, they argue that Korean companies would face stiff competition from 28 other RDP-A countries and that the DoD market open to foreign companies is actually not that big due to numerous restrictions designed to protect domestic companies, such as small businesses, despite the Buy American waivers. However, understanding how the RDP-A benefits both countries mitigates these concerns. First, the RDP-A is on one hand a framework for communicating about industrial cooperation and market access. Second, the RDP-A is meant to remove discriminatory barriers to procurement, to the extent mutually beneficial and consistent with national laws, regulations, policies, and international obligations. Third, any country can terminate the RDP-A. If the Korean government should find the RDP relationship to be detrimental, it can withdraw. Fourth, although historical data does not provide any consistent patterns of exports or imports, trends suggest that RDP-As tend to strengthen industrial cooperation overall, benefiting both sides of the partnership. Finally, all RDP-As have expiration dates, but none of the 28 countries with RDP-As have walked away from their RDP relationships. All have renewed their agreements, some which have remained in effect for several decades. The longevity of the agreements strongly suggests that membership in the U.S.-centered RDP-A network does not produce negative results among partner country defense industries. "

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TRADOC G-2 leads the OE story. Describing the OE and defining the Threat is a big job.

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Globalstar and Parsons unveil satellite service for defense market The collaboration leverages Globalstar’s low-Earth orbit satellite communications infrastructure and Parsons’ signal processing technology Sandra Erwin WASHINGTON — Satellite communications provider Globalstar has teamed up with defense contractor Parsons to bring to market a secure messaging and data transmission service for military users. Under the partnership announced Dec. 3, Parsons developed a specialized waveform that enables secure communication through Globalstar’s existing low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite infrastructure. A waveform refers to a software-based signal processing technique that determines how data is transmitted and received. Unlike hardware-centric upgrades, this software-driven solution leverages Globalstar’s bent-pipe satellite architecture, simplifying integration and updates. Narrowband communications market niche Globalstar operates a narrowband satellite network primarily used for voice calls, text messaging, and low-bandwidth data applications, such as asset tracking and emergency services. This positions it in a distinct segment compared to high-bandwidth providers like SpaceX’s Starlink, which focuses on delivering high-speed internet for consumer and enterprise applications.  Mike Kushin, president of defense and intelligence at Parsons, said part of Globalstar’s appeal is its dual-frequency L-band and S-band architecture. The L-band facilitates uplink communications from user terminals to satellites, while the S-band handles downlink communications. Globalstar’s bent-pipe architecture also played a role in Parsons’ decision to collaborate and sign an exclusive agreement with the satellite firm.  Unlike satellite systems with onboard processing, Globalstar’s satellites serve as simple signal relays, with most data processing occurring at ground-based gateways. This allows for more straightforward upgrades and integration of Parsons’ waveform, eliminating the need for hardware modifications to the satellites themselves.  Communications in congested environments “Traditionally, we haven’t had a lot of activities in the defense and the government sector, and Parsons presented a wonderful opportunity for us to find a partner that will utilize some of the advantages of our satellite architecture,” said Mersad Cavcic, Globalstar’s chief marketing officer,  The companies seek to address a demand for communications in areas of high radio frequency (RF) congestion where civilian and military systems compete for spectrum, and communication pathways can become strained or disrupted.  “This service is designed to enhance resilience against disrupted communication pathways, providing reliable access in RF-congested environments,” Kushin said.    

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Celebrating the U.S. Space Force and Charting Its Future Aperio Global, LLC is honored to attend tomorrow's Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) event, where thought leaders, policymakers, and innovators will come together to celebrate the achievements of the U.S. Space Force and discuss its future agenda. As a company at the forefront of Cyber, Data, and AI innovation, we are deeply committed to supporting stakeholders in the space domain, including the U.S. Space Force, Space Development Agency, NASA, and other commercial and international space partners. This event presents an incredible opportunity to engage in critical discussions about the challenges of a contested space environment and the innovations needed to navigate the future. We look forward to exploring how cutting-edge technologies—such as real-time data solutions, AI-driven insights, and enhanced cybersecurity—can empower the U.S. Space Force to solidify its role in global space leadership. Events like these reaffirm our dedication to delivering mission-centric, actionable insights with speed and precision to our customers in the space community. If you’re attending, let’s connect! Together, we can shape the next frontier of space innovation. #SpaceForce #CSIS #AperioGlobal #SpaceInnovation #MissionFocused #AccretiveImpact #SolveForNext

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🛡️ Driving Innovation and Growth: Expanding the Defense Industrial Base 🚀 As we navigate an increasingly complex global landscape, the expansion of our defense industrial base is more crucial than ever. Strengthening our capabilities not only enhances national security but also drives innovation and economic growth. ✨ Why Expand? Expanding the defense industrial base fosters resilience against emerging threats, promotes technological advancement, and creates high-skilled jobs. It's about equipping our forces with cutting-edge capabilities while bolstering our industrial and innovation base. 🌐 Global Impact In a connected world, collaboration and strategic partnerships are key. By expanding our defense industrial base, we foster international cooperation, enhancing interoperability and strengthening alliances to address global security challenges collectively. 🔍 Opportunities Ahead From cybersecurity to advanced manufacturing, expanding the defense industrial base opens doors to new opportunities in technology development, research, and infrastructure investments. It fuels a cycle of innovation that benefits not only defense but also commercial sectors. 🤝 Collaboration is Key By fostering collaboration between government, industry leaders, and academia, we can drive forward-thinking initiatives that propel our defense capabilities into the future. It's about harnessing diverse expertise and resources to build a secure and prosperous future. At Ombra we embrace this pivotal moment to expand our defense industrial base, driving innovation, safeguarding our nation, and creating a resilient foundation for generations to come. Together, we can shape a stronger, more secure future. #DefenseIndustry #NationalSecurity #Innovation #EconomicGrowth #GlobalSecurity #Collaboration #TechnologyAdvancement #FutureReady

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Commercial space technology and capabilities will play an increasingly important role in military exploitation of the space domain, reducing R&D burdens on government agencies and lowering overall costs to the agencies. https://ow.ly/HYSV50TvR8x

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𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐑𝐎 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐍𝐚𝐯𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 ANDRO Computational Solutions, LLC has been chosen for a prime contract award through the SeaPort Next Generation (NxG) program, the Navy Virtual SYSCOM Commanders’ integrated approach to contracting for professional support services. ANDRO is a provider of advanced software defined radio products including radio frequency machine learning (RFML) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for wireless communications and networking. Under this contract, ANDRO will focus on delivering engineering, technical, and research services towards the development of engineering prototypes and production-ready capabilities at scale in the AI/wireless communications and RFML space. “We were notified of the award New Year’s Eve and what an exciting way to end 2024 and ring in 2025,” said ANDRO President Andrew Drozd. “The award further cements ANDRO’s position among an elite corps of ‘best-in-class’ government contractors from across the nation that are ready to respond to the Navy’s needs and complex service requirements related to AI, advanced wireless communications, and dynamic spectrum sharing among other areas. Our contributions will assist in assuring that the US Navy is well postured to sustain information dominance and spectrum superiority during these challenging geopolitical times.” Drozd attributes the SeaPort NxG award to Fred Frantz, ANDRO’s chief operations officer and capture manager. Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) Click the link below to read more from the Sentinel Media Company. https://lnkd.in/gZghi4ks #andro #androcs #androcomputationalsolutionsllc #ai #wirelesscommunications

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For today's Substack post, Matt and I propose an idea for driving Commercial Competition across the DoD. How can we leverage a process like Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) solution brief to enable commercial solutions to compete with current acquisition programs? Explore if there are solutions that can deliver faster, lower cost, and/or at increased performance. Interestingly, there is a Defense Acquisition Challenge Program that has been in statute for nearly 20 years that aligns with our idea. What do you think? https://lnkd.in/estDCyAU

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