Video by Matthew C Clouse | Air Force Research Laboratory | 11.19.2025
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Aaron Holmes and Senior Airman Erika Gustafson, showcase their Optical Drone Detection System during the AFWERX Spark Street exhibit at the Air & Space Forces Association’s Air, Space & Cyber Conference in National Harbor, Maryland, Sept. 22–24, 2025. Senior Department of the Air Force leaders, including Secretary of the Air Force Dr. Troy Meink, visited the......
Video by Matthew C Clouse | Air Force Research Laboratory | 03.04.2025
AFWERX Refinery empowered Airmen to solve a costly issue—communication cords breaking too often, leading to over $1.2 million in losses within two years. By developing a durable, low-cost 3D-printed bracket, the team extended equipment lifespan and reduced failure rates. Transitioning from concept to operational use, this $4 solution prevents expensive $1,233 cord replacements across 28......
Video by Matthew C Clouse | Air Force Research Laboratory | 03.04.2025
In 2020, AFWERX identified a critical need for female pilot bladder relief through the Sky High Relief Challenge. This need was transitioned into a reliable operational product, the AIRUS system, in 2024. The system is now available on GSA Advantage, representing innovation driven by AFWERX and the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center. (U.S. Air Force video by Matthew Clouse)...
Video by Matthew C Clouse | Air Force Research Laboratory | 03.04.2025
AFWERX, through its Refinery program, is driving innovation by replacing bulky, 40-pound legacy landing zone (LZ) and drop zone (DZ) marking systems with a lightweight, 22-pound solution designed for rapid deployment. This compact, portable system fits into a small rucksack, allowing a single operator to transport and deploy it with ease. Developed with input from Air Mobility Liaisons,......
Video by Matthew C Clouse | Air Force Research Laboratory | 03.04.2025
AFWERX Spark has transitioned the SPYDR Earcup Hypoxia Sensor, a critical innovation designed to monitor blood oxygen levels in real time, to the GSA Advantage marketplace. Part of Project Arc, the sensor integrates with pilots' headgear to detect hypoxia risks, safeguarding aviators' cognitive functions and improving flight safety. Through industry partnerships and military collaboration,......
Video by Dennis L Stewart | Air Force Research Laboratory | 10.05.2024
The Scientist and Engineer Demand Force Team with coordination with AFWERX Spark, conducted a Combat Innovation Exercise at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., Aug. 5-8, 2024. The exercise tested the limits of our Airmen’s skills and abilities to quickly adapt during battlefield conditions. In one scenario, the Scientist and Engineer Demand Force Team faced an enemy who used a new type of air-to-air......
Video by Dennis L Stewart | Air Force Research Laboratory | 09.18.2024
Spark, a division of AFWERX, connects Airman and Guardians to commercial innovators using virtual collaboration, immersive training and networking opportunities to inspire ideas and cultivate a more creative force. During the Air Forces Association’s Air, Cyber & Space conference September 16-18, 2024 at the Gaylord National Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland, AFWERX hosted......
Video by Dennis L Stewart | Air Force Research Laboratory | 09.14.2023
AFWERX Spark Street attended the Air Force Association convention September 2023.
