Technical Data Package Modernization for Information Assurance and Secure Data Exchange

Background and Problem Statement: The modernization of Technical Data Packages (TDPs) is imperative to address the Air and Space Force’s operational challenges in securely managing large-scale, complex datasets associated with advanced platforms and their sustainment life cycles. Current TDP systems often lack robust Information Assurance (IA) capabilities, seamless integration with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) environments, and effective mechanisms for secure data exchange across operational networks. This limitation not only hinders data integrity and configuration control but also increases vulnerabilities to cyber threats, jeopardizing mission-critical operations. The rapid pace of platform evolution and the increasing reliance on Model-Based Definition (MBD) and digital twin technologies further exacerbate the need for a comprehensive solution that ensures TDP security, scalability, and operational readiness. Opportunity and Desired Outcome: This Directed to Phase II (D2P2) SBIR effort aims to develop an innovative, scalable, and secure solution to modernize TDPs to support the lifecycle of highly complex Air and Space Force platforms. The envisioned solution will integrate advanced IA protocols, cryptographic protections, and tools for encrypted data exchange to facilitate the secure management of the "as-sustained" configuration state of critical assets. The outcome will be a functional prototype capable of enabling secure TDP lifecycle management while aligning with the Trusted AI and Autonomy modernization priorities and Zero Trust Architecture principles. The proposed solution will enhance operational efficiency, minimize cyber risks, and establish a foundation for scalable implementation across DoD platforms. The project’s Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at the start is anticipated to be TRL 4, with the target of reaching a minimum TRL 6 by the conclusion of Phase II, including validation of core capabilities in a relevant operational environment. Required Efforts and Phase Activities: To achieve the stated objectives, the following efforts and activities are required for each phase of the project: Phase II: Develop a secure visualization tool for displaying large-scale MBD geometry and associated data through encrypted web-based interfaces. Implement an encrypted configuration management system to maintain and update the "as-sustained" asset state while ensuring strict data integrity. Create advanced tools for automated data quality checks, incorporating rules-based IA compliance validation to ensure all TDPs meet security and contractual requirements. Design an end-to-end encrypted exchange framework for TDPs, incorporating user authentication, authorization, and audit trails while conforming to DoD Zero Trust Architecture guidelines. Integrate AI/ML methodologies to enable secure damage detection, sustainment planning, and actionable insights into asset health. Demonstrate the prototype in an operationally relevant environment, proving feasibility, security compliance, and system performance in handling large and diverse data streams. Minimum Deliverables: A secure web-based MBD visualization prototype capable of rendering large-scale geometry and TDP datasets with sub-second response times and role-based access controls. Tools for encrypted configuration management and secure "as-sustained" state maintenance, integrated with PLM systems. An automated framework for data quality checks and IA compliance validation of TDPs using defined security protocols and rules-based engines. A cryptographic data transfer and exchange framework, with test results demonstrating alignment with DoD security policies and successful inter-organizational data exchange. Technical documentation detailing methodologies, system architecture, and IA protocols implemented during the project, including recommendations for further scaling and operationalization. A transition plan for integrating the developed TDP modernization technology into operational environments within the Air and Space Force platforms, supported by a detailed commercialization strategy aligned with mission needs. Significance and Contribution to DoD Objectives: The proposed solution directly addresses the Operational Imperative 7—Readiness to Deploy and Fight—by delivering secure and reliable tools for managing critical asset data. The project also supports the DoD’s Trusted AI and Autonomy priorities by incorporating advanced data protection mechanisms, secure autonomous processes, and scalable solutions for data management across platforms. Successful execution of this effort will enhance the DoD’s ability to maintain readiness, ensure data security, and streamline collaboration with stakeholders while safeguarding sensitive information in a rapidly evolving threat landscape.