Sidus Space launches Fortis VPX rugged AI 3U OpenVPX module

Modular computing system unlocks new market opportunities across space, defense, and maritime sectors.

Sidus Space has launched Fortis VPX, a rugged, modular computing system aligned with the SOSA standard. It is designed to support command and data handling, AI/ML processing, and navigation in challenging environments. Fortis is part of Sidus’ growing portfolio of space-qualified and defense-grade technologies aimed at meeting the need for edge computing in both commercial and government applications.

Fortis VPX provides the scalable digital backbone needed to accelerate mission development timelines, reduce integration complexity, and support software-defined operations. Leveraging an open architecture and industry-standard 3U VPX form factor, Fortis is built for rapid integration into a range of applications across maritime, land, space, and airborne domains.

Strategic alignment and market relevance

Fortis VPX includes AI/ML processing, secure navigation, and command and data handling (C&DH) functions. Its modular design and applicability to both commercial and defense sectors make it suitable for use in satellite constellations, ground systems, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) platforms.

Alignment with the SOSA Technical Standard and Sidus’ proprietary IP supports recurring revenue opportunities through both system sales and service-based contracts across defense, aerospace, maritime, and commercial end uses.

What sets Fortis VPX apart

• Proven AI in Space Since 2023: Sidus Space leads the edge-computing revolution in orbit, with operational AI deployment in 2023, positioning Sidus as one of the earliest entrants with heritage in space-qualified AI/Edge platforms
• Capturing VPX Market Momentum: Fortis VPX targets the rapidly growing market and expanding requirements for autonomous, edge-deployed intelligence in defense and aerospace sectors
• Strategic Focus on Edge AI Capabilities: Engineered to enable autonomous, low-latency AI processing at the edge, Fortis VPX meets the surging demand for near real-time intelligence across multiple domains
• Smart, Software-Defined Payload Architecture: Fortis combines VPX single board computers (SBC) with FeatherEdge AI to enable dynamic, software-defined payloads capable of adapting to changing mission parameters across domains
• Multi-Domain, Modular Platform: Designed for seamless deployment across all operational domains:
  • Air: Tactical UAV systems
  • Sea: Underwater autonomous vehicles  
  • Land: ISR ground systems and mobile C2 nodes
  • Space: Radiation-hardened VPX AI payloads 

• Spaceflight Heritage: Our FeatherEdge AI system, now integrated with Fortis, has achieved Technology Readiness with LizzieSat-3, demonstrating full mission qualification in orbit
• Scalable, Agile Manufacturing: Sidus combines vertical integration with rapid manufacturing processes to deliver Fortis VPX at scale

For more information, visit sidusspace.com.