The U.S. Navy has issued a Request for Information (RFI) that signals a major shift in undersea warfare, with plans to integrate artificial intelligence and machine learning into the AN/BYG-1 combat system. Used across the U.S. submarine fleet and by the Royal Australian Navy, AN/BYG-1 is set to undergo major changes to its architecture, payload integration and tactical decision support.
The notice, posted by the PEO UWS Submarine Combat and Weapons Control Program Office (PMS 425), calls for a new framework to deliver applications for the AN/BYG-1. The Navy is seeking development, testing and integration of current, future and legacy applications in a more streamlined delivery model.
Among the priorities outlined are containerization of software capabilities, integration of new strike components, the use of AI/ML-driven tactical decision aids, a 13-week software delivery cycle and continued integration of payloads including the Compact Rapid Attack Weapon (CRAW), unmanned underwater vehicles, heavyweight torpedoes, unmanned aerial systems and undersea countermeasures.
A key driver is the Navy’s CRAW program, developed under Project Revolver, which uses multi-packing technology to increase the number of torpedoes that can be carried in a tube. The Increment 2 version will also bring an anti-torpedo defense, requiring tight integration with the combat system.
The Navy expects to award a contract in July 2027 with one base year and four option years. Deliverables must be production-ready systems that are certified, tested and fully operational.
By adopting AI/ML decision aids and modern software practices, the Navy aims to help submarine commanders process vast sensor data and make faster tactical decisions in contested environments. The RFI sets the stage for AN/BYG-1 to become the central platform for future undersea autonomy, weapons employment and decision support.
