This is the second in a series of articles about Project Minerva and its mission to integrate emerging technology for better maritime domain awareness and operational decision-making.
In our previous article, we explored how new platforms, sensors, and communications systems are improving the Coast Guard’s ability to “sense” activity across the maritime domain. But collecting data is only the first step. To gain an operational edge, we must be able to “make sense” of that data, as well—transforming raw inputs into timely, actionable information.
With today’s technology, we should be able to fuse data from any sensor, ship, aircraft, or information system into a shared operational picture. The goal is to leverage modern digital tools to build a Coast Guard data ecosystem—one that sharpens our decision-making and enhances mission success.
Turning data into decisions
To make sense of the broad spectrum of data we collect, we must first be able to download, organize, store, and secure it across the enterprise. Once this data is accessible and centralized, we can apply advanced analytical tools, including artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), to reduce the burden on operators and analysts and help commanders make better, faster decisions.
This step is critical. Sensing creates data. But it’s only through analysis that we generate insight—and insight is what drives action.
The building blocks: Data management and access
Modern data management is the foundation of making sense of our maritime domain. That means centralizing, cataloging, and securing operational data so that it’s available to anyone who needs it—on shore, in the air, or at sea.
With this framework in place, the Coast Guard can take full advantage of storage and data management solutions like secure hybrid cloud—integrating government-managed servers with commercial cloud providers—to achieve scalability, flexibility, and powerful computing capability in an affordable, secure environment.
From raw data to real-time insights
One of the fastest-moving areas of technology is data analysis, particularly AI and ML. These tools can scan vast datasets in seconds, exposing anomalies or patterns that a human might miss. Large language models (LLMs) are already helping personnel navigate policies and procedures. In operations, computer vision is opening the door to game-changing advances.
Similar to some autonomous cars, “computer vision” algorithms can identify surface craft, read markings, or spot people in the water from digital imagery and video. The best part? These machine learning algorithms can be deployed “on the edge,” meaning the detection happens directly on small unmanned or remote systems in real time, with no need to transmit data back first. This technology can greatly reduce the tedious burden on our operators and free them to execute the mission faster and more effectively.
More examples of Minerva in action
- Operations Data Domain: Project Minerva has been chartered to define the structure of the Operations Data Domain in order to build the foundation for data management. This domain will coordinate data responsibilities related to the Coast Guard’s 11 statutory missions. Rather than being led by a single entity, it will be executed through a “team of teams” spanning operational commands, support units, and headquarters. Minerva is working with the CG-TECH-3 Office of Data and AI to create the domain and recommending personnel to serve as its data stewards.
- Minotaur Afloat: A key part of data management is helping ensure that sensor data doesn’t get stuck in silos. Minotaur, a data fusion and track management tool long used on Coast Guard aircraft, is being expanded under the “Minotaur Afloat” program. With this upgrade, sensor feeds and imagery from cutters can be shared seamlessly across the fleet and with aircraft, building a truly shared operational picture. CG-C5I-E and CG-C5I-A are leading this effort to use Minotaur as the Coast Guard’s enterprise vessel track database.
- “Computer Vision” in the field: Project Minerva is collaborating with CG-2 AI and CG-C5I-E to apply computer vision algorithms to real-world maritime challenges. Drones equipped with computer vision algorithms have already flown from National Security Cutters. These aircraft can be equipped to use machine learning to automatically detect surface targets in large swaths of ocean – reducing strain and allowing operators to focus only on the most relevant contacts. Future cutter-based UAS could carry multiple cameras and look all around, all the time. Through partnerships led by CG-2 AI, the Coast Guard is also working with other government agencies to improve these algorithms to detect smaller, harder-to-detect objects including people, debris, and contraband.
What’s next?
Making sense of operational data is a team effort—and a critical one. Project Minerva is helping to ensure our systems don’t just collect information but also convert it into insight that supports our missions.
In the final article of this series, we’ll focus on the last step: “Act”—how Project Minerva is enabling the Coast Guard to respond more effectively with improved tasking tools, shared decision spaces, and better mission execution.
To learn more about Project Minerva or get involved, visit the Project Minerva SharePoint site or contact the team at ProjectMinerva@uscg.mil.
-USCG-
In the news:
How new sensor technology is improving operational decisions