Overview:

The Maven Smart System (MSS) represents a significant jump in C2 technology, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to revolutionize targeting and logistics operations for the U.S. Army. Developed through the Scarlet Dragon exercise series by the XVIII Airborne Corps, MSS is now actively deployed within U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and is being adapted to solve global logistics challenges.

Development:

MSS began its journey in late 2020, during the first Scarlet Dragon exercise, where it was initially used by the XVIII Airborne Corps in collaboration with the II Marine Expeditionary Force. The system’s early iterations were focused on using commercial satellite imagery and algorithms to identify and engage targets. Over time, the process has been refined significantly from taking 12 hours to pass targeting data in 2020 to under a minute today.

The rapid development of MSS was driven by a DevSecOps approach, involving collaboration between soldiers, developers, AI service providers, and testers. This iterative process has allowed MSS to evolve rapidly, incorporating real-time feedback from field exercises to enhance its capabilities.

Key Features and Capabilities:

• AI and ML Integration: MSS leverages AI and ML to rapidly assess the battlespace, gather vast amounts of data, and analyze it to identify and prioritize targets. This system significantly reduces the time and manpower required for targeting operations.
• High Efficiency: During recent exercises, MSS enabled the XVIII Airborne Corps to achieve a level of efficiency comparable to the time-critical targeting cell used during Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF), but with only 20 soldiers instead of 2,000. This demonstrates the system’s potential to streamline operations and reduce the personnel required for complex missions.
• Flexibility and Interoperability: MSS is designed to integrate data from various sources, even those not originally part of its software design. It also allows for customizable data access, catering to different ranks and roles within the military hierarchy, thereby enhancing its flexibility and interoperability.
• Logistics Support: Beyond targeting, the MSS is being explored for its potential in logistics. By providing commanders with a global picture of supply chains and enabling scenario-based planning, MSS could revolutionize military logistics operations, ensuring that supplies are optimally managed to support missions worldwide.

Future Plans and Deployment:

The Scarlet Dragon exercises continue to serve as a testing ground for MSS, with more iterations planned throughout 2025. The system is also set to make its large-scale Pacific debut during the Yama Sakura exercise, a U.S.-Japanese military command post exercise, in late 2026. These ongoing developments will further refine MSS, expanding its applications and enhancing its role in modern military operations. The Maven Smart System is a cutting-edge tool that represents the future of military operations. With its AI-driven approach to targeting and logistics, MSS offers unprecedented efficiency, flexibility, and operational capability. As it continues to evolve, MSS is poised to become an integral part of the U.S. Army’s arsenal, ensuring readiness and superiority on the modern battlefield.