First Destination Transportation

The First Destination Transportation (FDT) program, reflected in Line Item 2410 of the Navy's Weapons Procurement budget, funds the transportation of newly procured weapons-related equipment and material from the procurement source to the first point of use or storage. This includes both domestic and overseas destinations and covers shipments from suppliers outside the Department of Defense (DoD) supply system as well as DoD activities that fabricate new material. The primary objective is to ensure that critical Navy assets are delivered efficiently and securely to their intended locations to support operational readiness and ongoing acquisition programs.

Within the FDT program, funding is allocated to several key Navy agencies, each with specific transportation responsibilities. The NAVSUP (Naval Supply Systems Command) portion supports the movement of general weapons procurement materials, ensuring timely delivery to Navy installations and storage facilities. NAVSUP aims to maintain a seamless supply chain for weapons and related equipment, minimizing delays that could impact fleet readiness or project timelines.

The NAVAIR (Naval Air Systems Command) component focuses on the transportation of aviation-related weapons and equipment. NAVAIR works to guarantee that aircraft systems, munitions, and support equipment are delivered to operational units or contractors for integration, testing, or modification. This ensures that aviation platforms remain fully equipped and capable of meeting mission requirements, particularly as new systems are fielded or existing ones are upgraded.

The NAVSEA (Naval Sea Systems Command) segment addresses the shipment of sea-based weapons and associated material. NAVSEA's transportation objectives include the secure and timely movement of torpedoes, missiles, and other naval ordnance to ships, submarines, and shore facilities. This is critical for maintaining the combat effectiveness of the Navy's surface and subsurface fleets, as well as supporting ongoing modernization and maintenance activities.

The SSP (Strategic Systems Programs) portion is dedicated to the movement of strategic weapons systems, including those associated with the Navy's ballistic missile submarine force. SSP's objectives include the safe and compliant transportation of sensitive and high-value items such as rocket motors and ordnance on the exception list. The justification for this funding includes increased transportation costs due to industry-wide trucking shortages and higher rail and specialized handling expenses, particularly for items requiring strict security protocols and the use of Transportation Account Codes.

The FDT line item is justified by the need to support the Navy's weapons procurement and modernization efforts by ensuring that newly acquired materials reach their intended destinations without delay. The program also covers the transportation of Government Furnished Equipment or Material (GFE/GFM) provided to contractors for research, development, acquisition, or modification projects. By funding these transportation requirements, the Navy can maintain operational continuity, support acquisition schedules, and respond to evolving logistical challenges.