Hanscom AFB - Integrated cyber-physical resilience framework
Challenge ended
Description
One Nation Innovation, on behalf of Hanscom Air Force Base and supporting installation resilience stakeholders, is seeking qualified organizations to prototype an integrated cyber-physical resilience framework that protects base operations by bridging civilian and military cyber physical systems / operational technology (CPS/OT) infrastructure networks. Hanscom relies heavily on local municipal systems for mission continuity, making cross-domain cyber collaboration and shared threat response essential. This challenge will prototype secure collaboration tools and decision dashboards, Zero Trust network capabilities, counter-drone detection, and real-time threat intelligence automation and incident response in a live environment. It emphasizes resilience and interoperability between local and federal systems, proactive infrastructure threat detection, and operational continuity in contested environments. A successful prototype will position Hanscom as a model for community cyber information and response sharing, resilient installation infrastructure, and inform Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA) cyber operations.
Overall Objective
The objective of this challenge is to prototype and validate a cyber-physical defense model at Hanscom AFB that enables two-way unified civilian-military threat detection, response, and resilience. Solutions should enhance early warning, support secure municipal collaboration, integrate AI-enabled threat tools, and demonstrate counter-UAS readiness. Results will shape a scalable transition pathway for use across other DoD installations.
Problem Statement
Cyberattacks targeting municipal infrastructure have a direct impact on Hanscom’s operations and mission assurance. Current systems lack the interoperability and automation needed to coordinate across federal and local domains. CPS/OT functions, i.e. utilities, security, fire life safety, etc. are routinely separated, isolated and not coordinated from a cyber perspective. The rise of drone-based threats, incessant cyber probes, signal vulnerabilities, and limited visibility into shared networks creates a critical need for cyber-physical defense solutions that extend beyond base boundaries. Solutions should address: • Infrastructure risk assessment across municipal and military systems • Threat-informed operational planning and Zero Trust network deployment • AI-enabled cyber threat intelligence and automated analysis workflows • Visualization tools for attack surface mapping and response optimization • Early warning detection of drone and signal-based threats • Integration of counter-UAS data into cyber response systems • Employing secure edge computing technologies • Cell tower secure mesh network with battery back-up • Cross-domain dashboards and secure communication tools • Transition framework for replication at other DoD installations