U.S. Air Force Seeks Artificial Intelligence Solutions to Enhance In-Flight Refueling Operations

Summary

The U.S. Air Force is pursuing AI-driven technology to improve the training and performance assessment of aerial refueling crews, particularly those operating the KC-46 tanker. Through a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) solicitation with a November 25 deadline, the service is seeking a system that uses computer vision, machine learning, and flight dynamics analytics to automatically extract performance metrics from refueling operations captured by onboard cameras. The proposed system would track critical variables such as position, velocity, alignment, and closure rates, identifying deviations from standard flight profiles and generating objective post-flight feedback to replace the currently subjective, instructor-dependent evaluation process. Additionally, the system would produce advanced visual aids such as graphic AI overlays, heat maps, and immersive debrief environments to help receiving aircraft pilots improve their proficiency. The Air Force envisions this initiative as a scalable prototype for broader AI-based aviation performance assessment tools across the entire Department of Defense.