Advanced Combat Systems Technology

The Advanced Combat Systems Technology program focuses on enhancing the Navy's capabilities by developing open architecture systems. This initiative aims to evolve technical and business practices to support a framework essential for interoperability and secure information exchange. Emphasizing modular design, reusable software, and lifecycle affordability, the program aligns with the Department of Defense's directive for modular open systems. By fostering competition and collaboration, it seeks to improve innovation and economies of scale across the Navy and Marine Corps.

The Solid State Laser Technology Maturation (SSL-TM) project advances laser weapon systems for naval applications. It involves developing a Laser Weapons System Demonstrator to address capability gaps against asymmetric threats like unmanned aerial systems and small boats. The project informs future acquisition strategies by providing insights into system designs and integration architectures. The focus is on maturing technologies from laboratory settings to operational environments, ensuring readiness for potential deployment in naval operations.

The LOCUST (Low-Cost UAV Swarming Technology) initiative is part of the Department of Defense's strategy to leverage small autonomous systems in military operations. This project demonstrates swarming technology with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), focusing on ruggedizing platforms for challenging environments. By integrating command and control systems with various host platforms, LOCUST aims to enhance mission capabilities while addressing manufacturing and supply chain considerations. The goal is to validate these technologies in operational settings, paving the way for future military applications.

The Innovative Naval Prototype Transition project supports the development of disruptive technologies with transformative potential for naval operations. This includes investments in areas such as unmanned systems, directed energy weapons, and cyber warfare capabilities. The project seeks to push technological boundaries by fostering innovation within the defense sector, ultimately aiming to deliver advanced warfighting capabilities that can significantly alter naval combat strategies. Through experimentation and demonstration, these initiatives aim to achieve high levels of technology readiness for integration into future naval systems.