Shipboard Aviation Systems

The Shipboard Aviation Systems program, particularly the CV/CVN Launch and Recover project, is dedicated to developing systems essential for launching and recovering Navy and Marine Corps aircraft. This encompasses both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft operating from various vessels, including aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships. The main goals are to modernize Aircraft Launch & Recovery Equipment (ALRE) and manage its service life to maintain operational performance, relevance, and cybersecurity compliance.

The Aircraft Launch & Recovery Equipment Modernization initiative addresses obsolescence in hardware and software while incorporating fleet-driven capability upgrades. It emphasizes cybersecurity requirements across subsystems such as Visual Landing Aids (VLA), Information Systems, Launcher, Recovery, and the Aviation Data Management and Control System (ADMACS). Part of the modernization includes developing diagnostic tools like the Gold Disk program to improve troubleshooting for fleet technicians.

Furthermore, the Aircraft Launch & Recovery Equipment Service Life Management Program (SLMP) aims to sustain carrier aviation operations amid increasing demands from higher energy aircraft launches. This involves service life assessments and extension initiatives focusing on structural reliability and maintainability analyses. A key aspect of this effort is the Advanced Recovery Control (ARC) Block Upgrade, which updates control systems with modern technology to support operations through 2060.

These efforts are vital for maintaining the functional performance of shipboard aviation systems while ensuring compliance with current cybersecurity standards. The program's strategic approach includes ongoing engineering development tasks to achieve validated requirements before transitioning to full-rate production.