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Applied Intuition Launches Revolutionary Data Processing Program for the U.S. Navy

In a significant advancement for naval technology, Applied Intuition, Inc., a prominent player in the realm of physical AI, announced the deployment of its first large-scale data processing engine, known as the Data Edge Collection Kit (DECK). Officially unveiled on March 19, 2026, this initiative aims to revolutionize the U.S. Navy's data collection and operational readiness, providing a backbone for autonomous systems and intelligent decision-making in combat scenarios.

Understanding DECK

The DECK program is integral to the Navy's Robotic and Autonomous Systems Executive Office (PAE RAS). It enables real-time data collection at the network's edge, crucial for developing advanced AI and autonomous systems tailored for warfare. Historically, the Department of War (DOW) has lagged in infrastructure investments essential for effective data gathering from operational environments. This shortfall has hindered rapid AI system development, adversely affecting the Navy's capability to respond swiftly in today’s software-defined battlefields, where the ability to adapt swiftly signifies the difference between victory and defeat.

Before DECK, the U.S. Navy's prototypes for autonomous and semi-autonomous systems relied heavily on outdated manual processes. These methods hampered timely target identification, threat assessment, and engagement coordination, resulting in slower decision-making and limited effectiveness in critical maritime confrontations.

The Solution to a Persistent Problem

DECK addresses these challenges directly by deploying artificial intelligence to amass extensive operational data. It not only enhances system accuracy through rapid software updates but also eases operator workloads. As DECK integrates into the Navy’s PAE RAS, it establishes itself as a cornerstone for advancing automation across the Naval Operations Division (DOW).

“The future warship is defined by software, and DECK is a critical component of that vision for the U.S. Navy,” declared Qasar Younis, co-founder and CEO of Applied Intuition. “DECK transforms ships into data-generating, continually improving platforms, providing the DOW with a genuine maritime data engine instead of a solitary system. This is how AI is implemented in the fleet at operational speed.”

The Navy Secretary, John Phelan, emphasized DECK’s importance during a recent address at AFCEA West, stating that without a data engine, a force capable of utilizing AI cannot be built. He explained that DECK transitions ships into adaptive learning systems rather than static platforms, facilitating iterative feedback loops with legacy architectures that historically could only evolve through systemic redesign. “This is how we transition from demonstrations to reality. When it comes to unmanned systems and AI, there is a harsh reality: the government cannot rapidly deploy the Gold Fleet alone at scale. Therefore, partnering with the private sector is imperative and must be accelerated,” Phelan remarked.

Enabling a Software-Defined Fleet

Currently, the Navy’s hardware-defined architectures are often isolated and intricately tied to legacy systems, making software deployment slow and inefficient when responding to rapidly modernizing adversaries. DECK forms a part of Applied Intuition's Data Engine solution, developed in collaboration with both defense and commercial clients over several years. It represents a tangible leap towards creating a software-defined fleet and a broader combat data ecosystem for the Navy.

DECK’s capabilities include real-time automated detection, classification, and logging via onboard sensors, offering operators integrated displays and visual overlays while intelligently managing limited satellite bandwidth. Its external management and retraining of AI and machine learning systems allow for wireless updates to deployed AI models and interface software, enhancing performance with minimal crew involvement. The modular nature of DECK enables swift deployment either as a compact system or as part of a comprehensive capability.

By delivering this pioneering capacity, the Navy illustrates its commitment to the speed at which it aims to implement a software-defined fleet.

For more information on how Applied Intuition is shaping the future of maritime autonomy, please visit applied.co or contact [email protected]