AFWERX Unveils Autonomy Prime to Fast-Track Autonomous Tech Development

AFWERX, the innovation branch of the Department of the Air Force, has launched Autonomy Prime under its Innovative Capabilities Opening (ICO) program.

Autonomy Prime, part of the Prime division, will focus on advancing autonomous technologies through collaboration with the private sector.

Similar to the successful Agility Prime program, Autonomy Prime aims to accelerate testing and deliver affordable cutting-edge technology to benefit the warfighter.

Lt. Col. Bryan Ralston, AFWERX Autonomy Prime branch chief, explained the decision, saying, "Building on the achievements of Agility Prime, we identified a need for autonomy across the Department of the Air Force due to industry maturity and technological progress."

The vision for Autonomy Prime took shape in early 2023, gaining approval from senior AFWERX and Air Force acquisition leaders in April of the same year.

Autonomy Prime has established an autonomy proving ground at Duke Field, Florida, strategically chosen for its restricted airspace and safety mechanisms. This facilitates safe autonomous flight tests and rapid product adjustments, eliminating the need for lengthy test approval processes.

Lt. Col. Ralston highlighted the importance of a trusted testing environment, stating, "Creating a space to evaluate and produce safe and trusted autonomy is our mission."

Autonomy Prime aims to release several autonomy topic calls under the ICO in the near future, providing opportunities for businesses to contribute to autonomous technology development.