Surface Support

The Surface Support program within the Navy focuses on advancing navigation systems for ships and submarines. A primary objective is the development and integration of the Inertial Navigation System (INS) AN/WSN-12, which provides accurate ship position and attitude data to onboard sensors and combat systems. This system functions independently of GPS, using an Inertial Sensor Module (ISM) and a Navigation Processing Module (NPM) to enhance data accuracy. The program aims to establish a baseline for Pre-Production Units, Low Rate Initial Production, and Full Rate Production phases.

In addition to navigation system enhancements, the program emphasizes cybersecurity improvements through the Situational Awareness Boundary Enforcement and Response-Navigation (SABER-NAV). This initiative bolsters cyber defenses by implementing intrusion detection/prevention systems and cross-domain solutions. Furthermore, it supports the integration of Military GPS User Equipment (MGUE) to ensure reliable Positioning, Navigation, and Timing in environments where GPS signals are compromised.

The program also explores new technologies such as Submarine Speed Sensors to improve detection capabilities and reliability. Assured Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (APNT) efforts focus on developing alternative sources of positioning data that are independent of GPS. These initiatives are supported by research from the Office of Naval Research's Future Naval Capabilities activity and Small Business Innovation Research projects.

Lastly, the Automated Celestial Navigation System (ACNS) is being developed to integrate celestial navigation into existing systems. This effort leverages research for a robust solution suitable for fleet implementation. The Surface Support program aims to enhance navigation accuracy, cybersecurity resilience, and operational reliability across Navy vessels by investing in advanced technologies and integrating them into current systems.