GlobalX Challenge 26.1: AI-Native Air Interface for Tactical Communication Networks
This grant seeks innovative AI-based solutions for tactical communication networks, aiming to benefit both the U.S. and Indian Navies as well as commercial and public sectors.
Funder: Office of Naval Research
Due Dates: July 10, 2026 (White paper) | August 31, 2026 (Full proposal)
Funding Amounts: Up to $500,000 total per award (12-month base period up to $250,000, optional 12-month extension up to $250,000)
Summary: Supports international, multidisciplinary research teams in developing AI-native air interface solutions for resilient tactical communication networks in contested environments.
Key Information: Lead PI must be from a non-U.S. institution; targeted at researchers in the Indian subcontinent.
Description
The GlobalX Innovation Challenge, led by the Office of Naval Research Global (ONR Global), seeks to accelerate the cycle of knowledge generation by funding rapid, applied research with the potential for revolutionary dual-use capabilities. This specific challenge focuses on developing artificial intelligence (AI) systems that can dynamically optimize networking protocols and signal modulation schemes for tactical communications across air, surface, and subsurface domains in contested, interference-prone environments. The program is designed for international research teams, particularly those based in the Indian subcontinent, and aims to deliver outcomes valuable to both the U.S. and India, with potential for further technology development through follow-on efforts.
