BigBear.ai partners with Proof Labs to enhance cybersecurity for US space assets

BigBear.ai, headquartered in Columbia, Maryland, has announced a significant collaboration with Proof Labs Inc to develop an advanced cybersecurity resilience solution aimed at the Department of the Air Force (DAF). This partnership arises in the context of the AFWERX Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) programme, with Proof Labs designated as the prime contractor and awarded a Direct-to-Phase II contract to create the Cyber Resilient On-Orbit (CROO) solution.

The CROO initiative is poised to strengthen the defence mechanisms surrounding critical space assets of the U.S. Air Force (USAF) and the U.S. Space Force (USSF). It will leverage BigBear.ai’s proprietary SpaceCREST technology, which functions as a comprehensive digital twin. This capability will provide a real-time monitoring and alert system for satellite networks, focusing on enhancing the cybersecurity posture against cyber intrusions.

Ricardo Aguilar, Co-Founder and CEO of Proof Labs Inc, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Proof Labs is excited to collaborate with BigBear.ai to develop and deliver an advanced intrusion detection system utilizing artificial intelligence for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Space Cyber Resiliency program.” He further noted that this collaboration synergises Proof Labs’ innovative approaches with BigBear.ai’s strengths in AI-driven analytics, which is expected to significantly bolster the security of essential space assets.

In executing this project, BigBear.ai is set to utilise artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) to prepare the CROO’s systems against a comprehensive range of simulated cyberattacks. The focus will be on not only analysing and evaluating normal operations of USSF satellite systems but also understanding their behaviours when subjected to these simulated threats.

The integration of sophisticated machine learning algorithms will allow for continuous monitoring and real-time detection of anomalies and intrusions within select USSF space assets’ cyber environments. This proactive approach aims to alert the USSF to potential threats as they are detected.

Robert Wedertz, Senior Vice President, Federal at BigBear.ai, remarked on the importance of the undertaking, emphasising that, “This project represents a significant step forward in safeguarding our nation’s space infrastructure.” He explained that the advanced capabilities offered by the SpaceCREST digital twin, augmented through custom machine learning and anomaly detection features developed within this partnership, will provide the DAF with a powerful instrument to counteract real-time cyber threats, ensuring the resilience of America’s critical space assets.

Overall, this partnership between BigBear.ai and Proof Labs Inc highlights a growing trend in which advanced technologies, specifically AI and machine learning, are increasingly being applied to strengthen the cybersecurity frameworks of military and national defence operations, particularly those pertaining to space. As the reliance on satellite-based systems continues to rise, the necessity for robust cybersecurity measures becomes paramount to maintain operational integrity and security.

The project received notable attention within defence and technology circles, reflective of the expanding role of artificial intelligence in automating and improving cybersecurity measures for sensitive governmental operations.

Source: Noah Wire Services