CHALK EAGLE

The CHALK EAGLE program, identified as Program Element (PE) 0603576N within the Navy's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) budget, is a classified initiative under Budget Activity 4: Advanced Component Development & Prototypes (ACD&P). The program is managed by the Department of the Navy and is focused on advanced research and development activities, with a specific emphasis on component and prototype development. The overarching goal of CHALK EAGLE is to support the Navy's mission by advancing technologies that are critical to national security, though the precise nature and scope of these technologies remain classified in accordance with Executive Order 13526, Section 1.4(a).

For Fiscal Year 2026, the CHALK EAGLE program continues to receive funding following prior year investments. The budget line reflects a continued commitment to the development and maturation of advanced components and prototypes, which are intended to address emerging threats and operational requirements. The program's objectives are aligned with the Navy's strategic priorities, ensuring that research and development efforts are responsive to both current and future defense needs.

The specific goals of the CHALK EAGLE project within this program element are not publicly disclosed due to classification. However, the budget justification indicates that the program supports the development of technologies that require a high degree of security and oversight. This typically involves work on advanced sensors, communications, or weapon systems, and may include the integration of new capabilities into existing platforms or the creation of entirely new operational concepts. The classified nature of the program underscores its importance to national defense and the need to protect sensitive information from potential adversaries.

The CHALK EAGLE program is justified on the basis of its contribution to the Navy's ability to maintain technological superiority and operational readiness. Investments in advanced component development and prototyping are essential for the Navy to stay ahead of evolving threats and to ensure that its forces are equipped with the most capable and reliable systems. The program is structured to allow for rapid innovation and the transition of successful prototypes into operational use, thereby enhancing the Navy's overall effectiveness.

Budget adjustments for CHALK EAGLE in recent years have included reductions related to Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) transfers, as well as miscellaneous rate adjustments. These changes reflect ongoing efforts to optimize resource allocation and ensure that funding is directed toward the highest-priority research and development activities. The absence of congressional adds or directed reductions further indicates that the program's funding profile is stable and consistent with executive branch priorities.

The acquisition strategy for CHALK EAGLE is also classified, but it is submitted annually to Congress in the classified budget justification book. This approach ensures that oversight and accountability are maintained while protecting sensitive program details. The Navy's acquisition strategy likely involves close coordination with other defense agencies and industry partners to leverage the latest technological advances and to accelerate the development and deployment of critical capabilities.