Defense Research Sciences

PE 0601153N: Defense Research Sciences is a foundational Navy research program managed by the Office of Naval Research (ONR). Its primary goal is to conduct basic research (Budget Activity 1) that expands fundamental scientific knowledge in areas critical to future naval capabilities. The program supports the Department of the Navy's (DON) Science and Technology (S&T) portfolio, focusing on theoretical and experimental investigations in physical, chemical, engineering, environmental, and life sciences. Research is performed largely by academia and government laboratories, with an emphasis on workforce development and scientific discovery to support long-term naval operational readiness and warfighting superiority.

0000: Defense Research Sciences encompasses a broad range of basic research areas, including air, ground, and sea vehicles; atmosphere and space sciences; human systems; mathematics, computer, and information sciences; materials and processes; medical and biological sciences; ocean sciences; education and outreach; sensors and electronics; and weapons. The objective is to lay the groundwork for future applied research and technology development, ensuring the Navy and Marine Corps can deter conflict and, if necessary, prevail in future engagements. Research is aligned with the National Defense Strategy and the Secretary of the Navy's priorities, and is coordinated across the Naval Research Enterprise.

1398: Ocean Atmosphere and Space Sciences is the largest single line item, supporting research in oceanography, atmospheric science, space science, and related disciplines. The goal is to improve the Navy's ability to predict and operate in complex maritime environments, including the Arctic, littorals, and open ocean. This includes developing advanced models for weather, ocean, and space phenomena, improving environmental sensing and prediction, and understanding the impact of environmental factors on naval operations and systems. The program also supports research on marine mammals, ocean acoustics, and the development of a skilled technical workforce through STEM outreach and partnerships.

1506: Materials/Electronics focuses on developing advanced materials and electronic technologies to enhance the performance, survivability, and reliability of naval platforms and systems. Research areas include electronics and sensor technology, nanoscale computing devices, functional and structural materials, corrosion control, and quantum-enabled devices. The objective is to create new materials and processes that enable next-generation sensors, energy storage, power electronics, and electronic warfare capabilities, as well as to support manufacturing science and the integration of advanced materials into naval systems.

1505: Human & Biological Systems supports research to understand and enhance human and biological system performance for naval applications. This includes bio-inspired robotics, biosciences and synthetic biology, biomedical research for warfighter health and survivability, cognitive and physical performance, and human-machine teaming. The program aims to maintain and improve warfighter readiness, leverage biological principles for new technologies, and address unique medical and physiological challenges faced by Sailors and Marines in austere environments.

1502: C5ISR/Naval Space addresses fundamental research in command, control, communications, computers, cyber, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and space (C5ISR). The objective is to provide the Navy with decisive information and decision-making advantages through advances in artificial intelligence, data science, quantum information science, secure communications, cyber security, electromagnetic warfare, and sensing. Research supports the development of robust, resilient, and secure information systems and networks, as well as advanced decision support tools for naval operations.

1402: Naval STEM, Outreach, & Partnerships consolidates efforts to grow and sustain a highly skilled technical workforce for the Navy and Marine Corps. The program funds STEM education initiatives, outreach to underrepresented communities, internships, faculty fellowships, and the Young Investigator Program. It supports partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions (HBCU/MI) and provides research and career development opportunities to attract and retain talent in critical science and engineering fields relevant to naval missions.