Safe Pro Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAI), a developer of AI-enabled defense, security and situational awareness solutions, has completed all research milestones under its Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract awarded by AFWERX, the innovation arm of the Department of the Air Force. The contract, awarded in July, focused on developing an AI dataset using images of foreign object debris and damage (FOD) commonly encountered at U.S. Air Force and civilian airfields. Under the program, Safe Pro demonstrated its SpotlightAI computer vision technology for detecting small objects, collected and analyzed high-resolution imagery and prepared technical project reports. Subject to AFWERX review and determination, the company intends to pursue additional SBIR-funded development contracts, according to Safe Pro Group (NASDAQ: SPAI).
The completion matters because it represents a potential expansion of Safe Pro's AI-powered detection capabilities beyond battlefield and post-conflict environments into military and civilian airfield operations, a market that demands precise, automated threat identification to maintain safety and operational readiness. The company's patented SPAI Ground Truth software uses AI and machine learning to identify small threats, including landmines, unexploded ordnance and drones, using drone-based imagery. Adapting this technology to detect foreign object debris on airfields could reduce the risk of costly damage to aircraft and improve inspection efficiency. The announcement follows recent interest from the U.S. Army, which has invited Safe Pro to provide operational support during an upcoming airfield exercise, further validating the technology's dual-use potential.
Chairman and CEO Dan Erdberg said the project demonstrates the potential applications of the company's computer vision technology across defense and civilian markets. For investors, the milestone is significant because it positions Safe Pro to compete for follow-on SBIR contracts and to address a broader set of customers, from military air wings to commercial airport operators. The full press release is available at https://ibn.fm/iXAdm, and the latest news and updates relating to SPAI are available in the company's newsroom at http://ibn.fm/SPAI.
The announcement was distributed through AINewsWire, a specialized communications platform focused on AI advancements, which is part of the Dynamic Brand Portfolio at IBN. The platform provides wire solutions via InvestorWire and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets, among other services. The company's ability to move from research to operational deployment will determine whether the AFWERX work translates into lasting revenue growth. For more information, visit www.AINewsWire.com.
