Electronic Warfare Development - MIP

The Electronic Warfare Development - MIP program, described under Program Element (PE) 0304270N, is a Navy Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on advancing electronic intelligence capabilities. The primary objective is to develop and enhance Specific Emitter Identification (SEI) technologies that support the tracking of commercial ships over 200 gross registered tons worldwide. This program is closely aligned with the goals of the Office of Naval Intelligence and the National Security Agency, specifically in support of the Worldwide Ship Tracking Program. The program is categorized under Advanced Component Development & Prototypes (ACD&P), with activities generally at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 6 and 7, indicating prototype demonstration in relevant and operational environments.

The central line item within this program element is the project focused on Specific Emitter Identification. Its mission is to support systems development and the collection of SEI information from National Technical Means (NTM). The project aims to improve electronic intelligence technology by focusing on miniaturization and automation of hardware, enhancing national collection systems, and advancing signal processing and analysis. A key technical challenge addressed is the propagation of signals in multi-path environments, which is critical for accurate emitter identification and tracking.

Within this project, efforts are dedicated to developing advanced technologies for signal processing, characterization, and de-interleaving of signals. The goal is to enable more effective fusion of information from various sensors, thereby improving the automation and reliability of SEI technology in national collection systems. Planned activities for FY 2025 and FY 2026 include continued development of these advanced signal processing capabilities, with an emphasis on supporting the automation of hardware and enhancing the analytical performance of SEI systems.

An additional initiative supports the development of autonomous surveillance systems capable of transmitting emitter signal information to central locations. This effort is focused on improving the automation of SEI certification hardware and software, thereby increasing the efficiency and scalability of ship tracking operations. For FY 2026, the program plans to initiate the development of capabilities for rapid database reprogramming and improved identification using Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies. These advancements are expected to enhance the responsiveness and adaptability of SEI systems in dynamic operational environments.

Another component seeks to improve the performance, real-time communication, and tactical utility of SEI systems. This includes ongoing developmental improvements in SEI hardware and software, as well as evaluations of new hardware subsystems to ensure next-generation system performance. The objective is to maintain technological relevance and operational effectiveness by integrating the latest advancements in SEI technology and communications infrastructure.

Funding for the Electronic Warfare Development - MIP program is allocated primarily to product development activities, with the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) serving as the principal performing activity. The budget reflects a stable funding profile from FY 2024 through FY 2026, with minor adjustments due to operational and rate changes. There are no significant schedule or technical changes anticipated during this period, and the acquisition strategy is not applicable as the program is focused on research and prototype development rather than procurement.