JIFX events provide an opportunity for technology developers to interact with operational personnel to determine how their technology and ideas may support or enhance USG/DoD capabilities. The environment facilitates a collaborative learning environment between government, academia, industry, and NGOs to promote the identification and assessment of emerging and maturing technologies. These events enable rapid iteration on nascent technologies with the direct input of end users. Submissions that relate to any of the RFI areas of interest (including areas not listed below) will be considered for acceptance.

Operations at the Edge refers to conducting operations in environments that are on the periphery or outskirts of conventional operational areas. This often involves scenarios where communication, logistics, and other resources may be limited or constrained. These types of operations could include remote or austere locations, such as remote outposts, border regions, rugged terrains, or areas with challenging weather conditions. Key aspects include:

• Advanced Communication Integration: Test the integration of advanced satellite communication technologies to establish reliable and secure communication links between remote field units and command centers.
• Mesh Networking: Explore the feasibility of setting up mesh networks using portable and lightweight communication nodes to ensure continuous communication coverage even in areas with uneven terrain.
• Low Bandwidth Data Transmission: Develop protocols and tools for transmitting essential surveillance data (images, videos, sensor data) using minimal bandwidth, considering that high-speed internet may not be available in such remote areas.
• Data Fusion and Analysis: Develop methods for collecting, integrating, and analyzing data from diverse sources to support decision-making and situational awareness in real-time, even in remote and disconnected environments.
• Energy Efficiency: Experiment with energy-efficient communication devices and power sources to ensure prolonged operation without frequent resupply in energy-deprived environments.
• Interoperability: Test interoperability between different agencies' communication systems to enable seamless information sharing and coordination among various units involved in border surveillance.
• Emergency Protocols: Devise emergency communication protocols and redundancy systems to handle situations where primary communication channels fail.
• Cybersecurity and Encryption: Implement robust encryption and cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data transmitted through the communication networks.