Special Activities

The Special Activities program, managed by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, is a key initiative under the Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) Management Support category. This program is designed to support classified activities that are reported in accordance with Title 10, United States Code, Section 119(a)(1). The primary goal is to advance mission capabilities through specialized research and development efforts. The Assistant Secretary of Defense for Mission Capabilities within the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering oversees these activities.

The objectives of the Special Activities program focus on enhancing defense capabilities through innovative research and development projects. Although specific details about these projects remain classified, they are integral to maintaining national security and advancing technological superiority. The program's trajectory indicates a steady increase from FY 2024 to FY 2029, reflecting ongoing commitments to these strategic objectives.

In FY 2025, adjustments were made to align with overall Department of Defense funding reductions while accommodating economic assumptions. These adjustments resulted in a slight decrease in planned expenditures compared to previous projections. Despite these changes, the program continues to focus on its core mission of supporting classified research initiatives that contribute to defense-wide advancements.

The Special Activities program plays a crucial role in ensuring that the Department of Defense remains at the forefront of technological innovation. By investing in classified research and development efforts, this program aims to address emerging threats and enhance the United States' defense capabilities. Continued strategic oversight underscores its importance within the broader defense landscape.