Advanced Undersea Prototyping

The Advanced Undersea Prototyping program, under Program Element (PE) 0604536N, is a Navy research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on advancing unmanned undersea vehicle (UUV) capabilities. The program emphasizes the development and prototyping of the Orca Extra Large Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (XLUUV) and related technologies. Managed under the Advanced Component Development & Prototypes (ACD&P) budget activity, it aims to rapidly deliver operationally relevant undersea capabilities to the Fleet in response to Joint Emergent Operational Needs (JEON).

Orca Extra Large Unmanned Undersea Vehicle (XLUUV) is the central focus of this program. The primary objective is to design, fabricate, and test a family of extra-large UUVs capable of supporting a wide range of payloads and missions. The program is structured in multiple phases. Phase 1 involved a competitive design effort, while Phase 2 down-selected a vendor for fabrication and testing. The Navy is working to mitigate schedule delays caused by contractor and supplier challenges by conducting risk reduction testing and training with a designated test asset (Vehicle 0) delivered in FY24.

The XLUUV features a modular payload bay with defined interfaces, allowing for rapid integration of current and future payloads. For example, the Hunter payload will begin design and integration in FY26.

Hunter Payload Integration represents a significant new objective for the program. In FY24, a Top-Level Requirement (TLR) was established for integrating the Hunter payload onto JEON XLUUV vehicles. The FY26 budget supports the design, procurement of long-lead materials, and fabrication of a Hunter payload section, with planned integration at a forward operating base (FOB). This modular approach is intended to provide operational flexibility, enabling the fleet to install either Hunter or other payloads as mission requirements dictate.

Combat Autonomous Maritime Platform (CAMP) Project is another key component of the Advanced Undersea Prototyping line. CAMP aims to demonstrate and assess commercial and non-developmental XLUUV prototypes using the Defense Innovation Unit's (DIU) Commercial Solution Opening (CSO) process. The project will evaluate candidate systems on criteria such as vehicle range, payload capacity, and technical maturity, with a particular focus on meeting Indo-Pacific Command requirements. CAMP leverages prototyping and spiral development to accelerate the fielding of advanced undersea capabilities.

Support, Test, and Evaluation Activities are integral to the program's success. The Navy is upgrading facilities at Naval Base Ventura County and Naval Base Kitsap to support XLUUV testing, training, and fleet integration, as well as establishing forward operating bases for in-theater operations. Support engineering teams provide technical oversight of fabrication, risk mitigation studies, and logistics support. Test and evaluation activities include developmental and operational testing of XLUUVs, with the goal of delivering multiple vehicles to the Fleet and supporting events such as RIMPAC 2026.

Program Management and Oversight are provided by NAVSEA and associated warfare centers, ensuring technical guidance, project planning, and financial management. The program office coordinates with Fleet operators, contractors, and support teams to manage the development, testing, and integration of XLUUV systems and payloads. Management services also extend to the CAMP project, supporting documentation, system integration, and coordination with commercial partners.