Common Picture Applied Research

The Common Picture Applied Research program (PE 0602235N) is a Navy Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on advancing technologies and concepts that support Distributed Maritime Operations (DMO) and network-centric warfare. Managed by the Office of Naval Research (ONR), this program funds applied research activities that address operational needs for rapid decision-making, robust communications, persistent sensing, and information integration across Navy and Marine Corps forces. The program's investments align with priorities set by the Chief of Naval Research and the Naval Research Enterprise (NRE), supporting the broader National Defense Strategy and Navy strategic guidance.

Communication and Networks is a major line item within this program, aiming to develop dynamic, high-throughput wireless communications and networking technologies for mobile and dispersed naval platforms. Research objectives include improving radio spectrum efficiency, developing agile frequency communications, and enhancing Beyond Line Of Sight (BLOS) capabilities. Efforts target the creation of high-band radios, advanced antennas, secure network protocols, and alternative communication methods such as electro-optic/infrared technologies for underwater and airborne platforms. The program also focuses on tactical networking, auto-configuring networks, and cognitive network management to ensure near real-time information access for warfighters, including coalition and allied forces.

Applied Information Sciences for Decision Making encompasses research into algorithms and software that integrate data from multiple sources to support battlespace understanding and decision aids. This includes automation of object identification, activity recognition, intent assessment, and course-of-action generation. The program supports research in quantum information sciences, computational methods for decision making, artificial intelligence (AI), and cyber defense. Efforts are directed toward developing robust AI agents, cognitive modeling, machine learning for autonomous systems, and secure information sharing tools. Additional research areas include nanoscale electronics for ultra-low power computing, data analytics for distributed operations, and cyber resilience for naval warfighting systems.

Within Cyber Defense, the program funds applied research to enhance the security, assurance, and resilience of Navy information systems and cyber-physical platforms. Activities include developing high assurance systems, game-theoretic AI for cyber defense, privacy-enhancing technologies, and automated tools for vulnerability analysis and cyber operations. The program investigates zero-trust architectures, supply chain security, and mission-focused cyber analysis for complex systems-of-systems. These efforts aim to address root causes of cyber vulnerabilities and deliver scalable, robust defense techniques suitable for contested and denied environments.

Tactical Space Exploitation is another key component, focused on leveraging small, low-cost satellites and advanced spacecraft technologies to enhance naval warfighting capabilities. Research thrusts include advanced space platform technologies, next-generation payloads and sensors, connectivity for disadvantaged users, space weather, and space situational awareness. The program supports early applied R&D in hypersonic technologies, satellite communications, Over-the-Horizon Radar (OTHR), and alternative Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT) solutions. These efforts are designed to ensure Navy-Marine Corps access to critical space capabilities and improve operational effectiveness in contested space environments.

Across all these lines, the Common Picture Applied Research program emphasizes the integration and demonstration of mature technologies in field or fleet environments. The program leverages foundational science in information theory, network engineering, AI, and cyber security to deliver operationally relevant solutions. Annual funding adjustments reflect shifts in research focus, such as increased investment in AI, hypersonic technologies, and satellite systems to address emerging threats and operational requirements.