Software supply chain security provider RapidFort has signed a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with SpaceWERX, the innovation arm of the United States Space Force (USSF) and a division of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). The agreement establishes a joint research and testing framework to accelerate Authority to Operate (ATO) approvals, reduce artificial intelligence software exploitation risks, and harden space system software supply chains against post-quantum encryption threats.
Under the CRADA, RapidFort will collaborate with SpaceWERX operational experts, acquisition personnel, and USSF Guardians to evaluate and co-develop software security capabilities tailored to contested space domains. The joint research focuses on mitigating vulnerabilities in AI software stacks, accelerating security clearance workflows via specialized education initiatives, and preparing USSF software infrastructure for post-quantum cryptographic transitions in compliance with federal cybersecurity directives.
| [ RapidFort & SpaceWERX CRADA Strategic Focus Areas ] | ||
|---|---|---|
| Research Pillar | Operational Framework & Mandate | Space Force System Impact |
| • Post-Quantum Encryption Protection | • Migration frameworks for quantum-resistant cryptography • Aligned with federal cryptographic mandates | • Hardens space-to-ground satellite communications against future quantum decryption threats |
| • AI Software Risk Mitigation | • Continuous vulnerability reduction in AI software stacks • Hardened container images and runtime profiling | • Eliminates software attack vectors at the source for AI models deployed in space operations |
| • Accelerated ATO & Clearances | • Rapid ATO education & “Ask an Approving Officer” program • Facility Security Officer (FSO) clearance support | • Reduces ATO timescales to field software at operational speed without compromising security |
The strategic partnership provides SpaceWERX with access to RapidFort’s open-source software supply chain ecosystem and runtime attack surface reduction tools. By establishing a real-time feedback loop between commercial software developers and defense acquisition teams, the initiative aims to deploy hardened, quantum-resilient software packages across mission-critical Space Force infrastructure.
Review the full corporate release on the RapidFort Newsroom here.
October 6, 2026