Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) has launched this year's $95,000 prize challenge for 3D printing, cyber and data science technologies applicable to maritime operations.
The four-day HACKtheMACHINE competition launched virtually on Tuesday with three separate tracks corresponding to the three technologies, NAVSEA said the same day.
The contest's cyber track will challenge participants to hack the U.S. Navy's 2021 cyber games in a virtual capture-the-flag manner. Contestants will attempt to disable a tool the Navy is looking to use for cyber surveillance.
The data science track will task participants to develop algorithms for health emergency response, and the 3D printing track will focus on metallic 3D printing of naval ship parts. The Navy may issue a small business contract for the 3D printing track's winner.
"HACKtheMACHINE is a great avenue for non-traditional partners, many who are small businesses," said Anne Bannister, director of NAVSEA's small business program.