Defence for Defence: Transforming Aerospace Missions with Real-Time Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the Defence landscape, yet the true potential of localised AI remains underutilised, especially within aerospace missions. While AI adoption is widespread, localised AI platforms offer a unique advantage by directly addressing Defence’s strict requirements for operational security, reliability, and real-time intelligence. 

SierraBlue, developed by Bluerydge, a trusted leader in Defence-grade cybersecurity, is a pioneering localised AI platform specifically designed for aerospace operations. Bluerydge’s reputation as a leader in cybersecurity ensures SierraBlue is built to adhere to stringent security standards and operational requirements. With deep expertise in Governance, Risk & Compliance, Threat Discovery, and Cyber Capability, Bluerydge's foundational strength underpins the secure and effective deployment of SierraBlue. 

 Developing Defence for Defence 

Aerospace missions require instant, reliable, and actionable intelligence capabilities. Operations such as controlling unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), interpreting surveillance data, and safeguarding secure communications depend heavily on the seamless processing of real-time intelligence. Traditional cloud-based AI solutions are often insufficient due to issues with connectivity, security risks, and latency, making them unsuitable for sensitive Defence operations. 

To address these operational challenges, Bluerydge partnered with Defence stakeholders and UNSW Canberra under the Defence Trailblazer Program to develop SierraBlue. Defence’s strategic support ensures SierraBlue aligns specifically with operational requirements, enabling it to function autonomously even in fully disconnected environments. SierraBlue's design supports immediate intelligence processing, removing reliance on external infrastructure. 

As SierraBlue advances towards deployment, it is undergoing certification processes aligned to Defence’s information security standards, including Information Security Registered Assessors Program (IRAP) assessments and Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) cryptographic standards. These certification pathways ensure SierraBlue’s readiness for secure, classified operational use. 

Mission-Ready AI for Aerospace Operations 

Real-time intelligence capabilities are critical for Defence aerospace missions, including UAV control, surveillance operations, and secure communication management. SierraBlue directly addresses these needs, offering autonomous, reliable, and instant intelligence processing capabilities without external connectivity dependencies. 

SierraBlue utilises advanced local-first architecture, allowing Defence personnel immediate and secure access to critical intelligence data, independent of external networks. Designed to process data locally through dedicated hardware, it maintains continuous operational effectiveness even in remote, contested, or isolated conditions. SierraBlue ensures total data sovereignty, meets rigorous compliance standards, and offers flexible integration with existing Defence infrastructures and workflows. 

 Avalon 2025: Elevating the Role of Localised AI in Defence 

At the Avalon Airshow 2025, localised AI solutions will be highlighted as essential to addressing Defence aerospace's specific operational challenges. Bluerydge directors Jim and Adam will engage Defence and aerospace industry leaders, stakeholders, and innovators at Avalon, discussing the strategic advantages and unique capabilities offered by SierraBlue. 

The event will emphasise SierraBlue’s tailored operational capabilities, autonomous intelligence processing, and its capacity to function independently from external connectivity. Avalon provides an exceptional opportunity to illustrate how localised AI addresses Defence-specific operational requirements, enhancing mission readiness and reliability. 

Leading the Charge in Aerospace AI 

Developed by Bluerydge, SierraBlue is positioned to redefine the capabilities of Defence aerospace missions. Supported by Defence through the Defence Trailblazer Program and prepared for comprehensive certification, SierraBlue ensures mission-critical aerospace operations benefit from advanced, secure, and fully autonomous intelligence capabilities. 

To connect with Jim and Adam at Avalon Airshow 2025, contact Bluerydge at 02 6183 6567 or email [email protected]