Fixed Surveillance System

The Fixed Surveillance System program is a key line item within the Navy's Other Procurement budget, specifically under Communications & Electronics Equipment for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Electronic Equipment. The principal goal of this program is to support the procurement and sustainment of fixed undersea surveillance assets, which are critical for monitoring maritime domains and detecting submarine activity.

The program is designed to enhance the Navy's ability to maintain persistent awareness in strategic ocean areas, thereby supporting national defense objectives and maritime security operations. Within the Fixed Surveillance System line item, the Navy allocates funding for the acquisition, modernization, and maintenance of classified surveillance infrastructure. Objectives include upgrading sensor arrays, improving data transmission capabilities, and ensuring system reliability for continuous operation.

These investments are justified by the need to counter evolving undersea threats, maintain technological superiority, and provide actionable intelligence to fleet commanders and joint force operations. The program is managed by Navy agencies specializing in undersea warfare and intelligence collection, with oversight from the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV) and relevant program executive offices.

Procurement activities are closely coordinated with classified partners and involve the integration of advanced acoustic and signal processing technologies. The line item also covers lifecycle support, including spare parts and system refreshes, to ensure sustained operational readiness. The budget request supports both ongoing system operations and planned upgrades, reflecting the Navy's commitment to maintaining a robust surveillance posture in contested maritime environments.

There are two major classified subcomponents within this line item. One subcomponent represents the bulk of the funding and is focused on core surveillance system procurement and modernization, including hardware refreshes, software updates, and infrastructure improvements necessary for the system's continued effectiveness. The other subcomponent addresses specialized enhancements or niche capabilities within the overall surveillance architecture, ensuring adaptability to emerging operational requirements.

The justification for continued investment in the Fixed Surveillance System is rooted in the classified nature of the threats and operational demands faced by the Navy. The system provides unique capabilities that cannot be replicated by mobile or airborne platforms, offering persistent coverage and early warning in high-priority areas. The classified details of the program, as required by Executive Order 13526, are submitted to Congress in a separate classified budget justification book, ensuring appropriate oversight while protecting sensitive information.