The ATRT Enterprise Rapid Development program, as outlined in Program Element (PE) 0603598N, is a Navy Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on the rapid development, integration, and deployment of advanced capabilities to support Distributed Maritime Operations. The primary objective of this program is to leverage mature technologies such as virtualized systems of systems, automated test and analysis, automated certification, rapid interface development, and edge analytics to accelerate the delivery of operational capabilities to the fleet. This approach is intended to meet near-term operational demands in a predictable and repeatable manner, using digital engineering tools and evolutionary acquisition strategies.
Within the ATRT Enterprise Rapid Development program, the 9999: Congressional Adds line item represents significant congressional investments in fiscal years 2024 and 2025. These funds are directed toward increasing the pace of capability development and fielding, particularly for terminal defense (hard-kill and soft-kill) and long-range fires. The program is structured around semi-annual and quarterly delivery/test cycles, including participation in Gray Flag and other operational events, to ensure that new capabilities are tested and delivered to the fleet on a rapid and recurring basis.
The 9B88: Automated Test and Analysis project is a key component of the ATRT Enterprise Rapid Development effort. This project is a collaborative initiative between NAVSEA and NAVWAR, building upon previous work funded under NAVWAR PE 0603597N. The primary goal is to develop and implement automated testing and analysis capabilities that support both hard/soft kill terminal defense systems and long-range fires architecture. This includes the development of software and hardware modifications to streamline the certification process, reduce manual intervention, and enhance the reliability and speed of system validation.
A central objective of the ATRT Enterprise Rapid Development program is to enable rapid prototyping and fielding through the use of virtualized environments and digital twins. The program includes the development and demonstration of virtualized long-range fire kill chains, ground test events, and at-sea demonstrations aboard Navy platforms. These efforts are designed to provide objective quality evidence (OQE) required for operational certification and authority to operate (ATO), ensuring that new capabilities can be deployed quickly and safely.
The program also emphasizes continuous certification and modernization training, including the development of virtual combat system demonstrations, training events at the Submarine Learning Center, and the deployment of advanced analytics at the edge. These activities are intended to maintain the readiness of fleet personnel and ensure that new technologies are effectively integrated into operational workflows. The schedule includes multiple test events, ship installations, and live-fire validations across fiscal years 2024 to 2026, reflecting a commitment to iterative development and operational feedback.
Key contractors and performing activities include Innovative Defense Technologies for engineering management and system definition, the Office of Naval Research for developmental test and evaluation, and Booz Allen Hamilton for program management support. Additional support is provided by various Naval Surface Warfare Centers and Naval Air Warfare Centers across multiple locations. These partnerships are critical to executing the program's technical objectives and ensuring alignment with Navy operational requirements.