IARPA Launches UG2+ Prize Challenge for UAV Image Collection, Analysis

The Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity has launched the second UG2+ Prize Challenge, which calls on researchers from industry and academia to provide new tools to enhance how unmanned aerial vehicles collect and store images. 

The Office of the Director of National Intelligence said Friday this year’s competition will focus on improving image analysis, restoration and algorithm performance in UAVs. 

"This second iteration aims to further engage the community to advance techniques needed to aid analysts in processing and understanding the large amounts of imagery they receive on a daily basis," said Lars Ericson, program manager at IARPA. 

Registration for UG2+ runs through April 1 and is open to U.S.-based and international researchers. 

IARPA is expected to name the winners in May. The winners will present their tools at the 2019 Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition Conference.