NextGen’s machine learning platform will assist the USAF in weather intelligence operations, enhancing mission safety and success.
With the assistance of Vertx Partners professionals, NextGen Federal Systems reached a significant milestone by securing its inaugural Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase III contract. Headquartered in Morgantown, West Virginia, NextGen’s Phase III partnership with the U.S. Air Force is the largest contract win for the company’s Research and Development (R&D) Division.
NextGen’s Breakthrough Project
NextGen was awarded their Phase III contract for a project that “deploys, sustains, and continually enhances” a cyber-secure Weather Machine Learning Operations (Wx MLOps) platform and the Global Synthetic Weather Radar (GSWR) Real-Time System (RTS). NextGen’s project will meet Air Force Weather (AFW) mission needs and ensure ongoing safety and success.
“NextGen is excited to embark on this groundbreaking project, and through collaboration with the United States Air Force, we aim to enhance weather intelligence capabilities, ultimately contributing to the success of military operations,” said NextGen Technical Director Bob Farrell.
Chetan Desai, NextGen Chief Operating Officer, emphasizes, “NextGen Federal Systems is proud to be at the forefront of innovation, and this award represents our commitment to advancing the field of weather forecasting and machine learning. The company looks forward to continuing its collaboration with the U.S. Air Force and other stakeholders to create more groundbreaking solutions for the future.”
“Phase III can take several months to get to an award,” continued Desai. “And it’s not the government’s business to train us in that process. Vertx is explicitly set up to help companies at all levels – Phase I, II, and III – in that process. It has been awesome working with and leveraging Chris Ford’s wealth of experience. He is helping us develop innovative approaches to transition our multiple SBIR-developed technologies to warfighters.”
Phase III & You
NextGen’s Phase III win solidifies its tech leadership and elevates West Virginia’s profile in the innovation landscape. The company’s dedication positions it as a key player in shaping the future of Appalachian defense innovation.
As Congress works to limit the influence of so-called “SBIR mills” on the current award process and encourage commercialization through Phase III rewards, Vertx Partners prioritizes pushing new technology beyond Phase I and Phase II grants. The Vertx Partners team has years of defense contracting experience and can help your business secure a coveted Phase III SBIR/STTR award.