High Performance Computing Modernization Program

The High Performance Computing Modernization Program (HPCMP) is a Department of Defense (DoD) initiative under the Army's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) budget, specifically aimed at advancing computational capabilities for DoD scientists and engineers. The program's overarching goals are to demonstrate and mature leading-edge supercomputing architectures, enhance secure digital networking through the Defense Research and Engineering Network (DREN), and optimize critical software applications for computationally intensive modeling and design. These efforts directly support the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering's priority focus areas and align with the Army Modernization Strategy.

Department of Defense Supercomputing Resource Centers (DSRCs) are a central component of the HPCMP, providing advanced computational environments across five geographically distributed centers. The objectives for FY 2026 include maturing and demonstrating high-performance computers capable of delivering significant floating-point operations per second. These DSRCs enable large-scale, interdisciplinary scientific and engineering simulations, data-intensive computing for artificial intelligence and machine learning, persistent data services, and secure data archiving and retrieval.

The centers also support seamless access to resources and integration with cloud computing services, facilitating technology transition efforts in acquisition engineering and international collaboration while ensuring protection of sensitive data.

Defense Research and Engineering Network (DREN) is another critical line item, focused on providing robust, secure digital networking among HPCMP sites, the DoD HPC RDT&E community, and other major defense locations. DREN's FY 2026 objectives include delivering high aggregate bandwidth to numerous CONUS and OCONUS sites, supporting complex computational workflows that integrate high-end computing resources, research assets, test center devices, and live participants. The program also aims to expand DREN installations in regions such as the Pacific and Europe to address emerging threats and enhance protection against external and internal cyber threats, safeguarding DoD intellectual property.

Software Applications development under HPCMP is designed to optimize and mature software tools and environments for high-end computing. Key initiatives include virtual prototyping of DoD ships, aircraft, vehicles, and antennas; addressing high-impact DoD challenges such as blast protection and advanced weapon systems; and adapting critical DoD software to leverage new hardware advances. The FY 2026 plan involves maturing and demonstrating relevant software applications for a broad range of DoD stakeholder organizations, improving modeling and simulation gaps, and providing training to thousands of users to maximize resource effectiveness.

The Productivity, Enhancement, Technology Transfer, and Training (PETTT) initiative further supports the software application effort by optimizing physics-based and engineering software, enhancing collaborative programming environments, and integrating cutting-edge computational technologies from academia and industry. These activities collectively ensure that DoD scientists and engineers can execute precise and efficient calculations on leading-edge supercomputers, improving workflows and supporting critical research, development, and acquisition priorities.

Funding for HPCMP in FY 2026 reflects adjustments for advisory services and civilian personnel in alignment with executive orders on government efficiency and workforce optimization. The program leverages specialized expertise from DoD, other federal agencies, industry, and academia, ensuring a collaborative approach to advancing computational technologies. The planned milestones and activities are designed to maintain the DoD's leadership in computationally intensive research and development, supporting both current and future defense needs.