EpiSci

EpiSci, also known as EpiSys Science, operates as a subsidiary of Applied Intuition, focusing on the development of artificial intelligence and autonomy software for the defense and commercial sectors. Founded in 2012 by Bo Ryu, who serves as the President and CEO, the company has established itself as a key player in mission-critical autonomous solutions. In early 2025, EpiSci was acquired by Applied Intuition, a move intended to combine EpiSci's expertise in aerial and maritime systems with Applied Intuition's strength in ground-based autonomy.

The company's core offering is its TacticalAI software, a hardware-agnostic and operationally-informed platform designed for a range of applications from uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) to tactical fighter aircraft. This technology functions as an autonomous co-pilot, enabling real-time decision-making without direct human input and can control swarms of unmanned vehicles. EpiSci's business model is centered on securing contracts with government and defense entities. A primary client is the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), for whom EpiSci has been involved in several high-profile projects, including the AlphaDogfight Trials and the Air Combat Evolution (ACE) program. Notably, EpiSci's software was used in the first successful dogfight between an AI-piloted F-16 and a human-piloted aircraft. The company also works with the Navy on unmanned surface vessels, the Space Development Agency on missile tracking, and NASA for 5G connectivity on the moon.

Key leadership includes founder Bo Ryu and CTO Dr. Dan "Animal" Javorsek. Dr. Javorsek, a retired Air Force Colonel and former DARPA program manager, brings a wealth of experience in fighter aircraft, operational testing, and AI/ML applications for combat systems. His background includes extensive flight test experience with F-16 and F-22 aircraft and a Ph.D. in Physics, aligning directly with EpiSci's focus on developing trusted AI for complex aerial combat scenarios. The company has received strategic investments from entities like RTX Ventures, the venture capital arm of Raytheon Technologies, to advance its TacticalAI platform. Following its acquisition, EpiSci continues to operate under its brand, leveraging Applied Intuition's resources to expand its reach and accelerate the deployment of its autonomous solutions across air, land, sea, and space domains.

Keywords: Tactical AI, autonomous systems, defense technology, artificial intelligence, DARPA, uncrewed aerial systems, UAS, collaborative autonomy, autonomous flight, air combat evolution, machine learning, robotics, command and control, unmanned surface vessels, swarming technology, human-machine teaming, defense software, national security, autonomous vehicles, fighter jet AI