Joint Service Explosive Ordnance Development

PE 0604654N: JNT Service EOD is a Navy Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) program element focused on supporting Joint Service Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) operations. The program's primary goal is to provide Combatant Commanders and EOD forces with information superiority through the development of technical manuals (TMs) and procedures for Unexploded Explosive Ordnance (UXO), Improvised Explosive Devices (IED), Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD), and various weapons systems. These resources are essential for the safe detection, identification, neutralization, and disposal of both foreign and domestic explosive threats to military operations, installations, personnel, and materiel.

The main project under this program element is focused on the continuous development, validation, and distribution of EOD Render Safe Procedures (RSP) and disposal procedures. These efforts are mandated by DoD Directive 5160.62, which designates the Secretary of the Navy as the Executive Agent for EOD Technology and Training (T&T). The Executive Agent is responsible for preparing, technically developing, validating, and distributing all EOD procedures and countermeasures, including manuals, bulletins, texts, and graphic aids. This is a non-acquisition program, meaning it does not follow traditional acquisition milestones but instead delivers urgent and periodic documentation as threats emerge.

A key line item is executed primarily by the Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head EOD Technology Division (NSWCIHEODTD) in Indian Head, MD. The specific goal is to develop new EOD Technical Manuals for both U.S. and foreign ordnance, with an emphasis on threats originating from Great Power Competition (GPC) countries. The program also supports the development, testing, and validation of new RSPs for explosive threats that do not currently have established procedures. This ensures that EOD teams are equipped with up-to-date guidance to address evolving explosive hazards.

Another critical line item, also managed by NSWCIHEODTD, aims to develop technical manuals and countermeasure documentation that outline tactics, techniques, and procedures for mitigating emerging IED and WMD threats. This includes documenting effective countermeasures and ensuring that EOD personnel have the latest information to respond to unconventional and asymmetric explosive hazards. The program has also involved collaboration with Sandia National Laboratories for specialized countermeasures research.

The program's funding supports ongoing research, development, and technical documentation efforts rather than procurement of physical systems. The continuous nature of the work allows for rapid adaptation to new threats and the timely dissemination of procedures and manuals to Joint Service EOD teams. Funding adjustments in recent years have been minor, primarily reflecting administrative efficiencies and government-wide cost initiatives, such as those mandated by Executive Order 14222.

A notable aspect of PE 0604654N: JNT Service EOD is its alignment with the National Defense Strategy and its focus on supporting the needs of Joint Service EOD forces in a dynamic threat environment. The program's deliverables technical manuals, procedures, and countermeasures documentation are continuously updated to address both legacy and emerging explosive threats, including those posed by adversaries in the context of Great Power Competition. This ensures that U.S. and allied forces maintain the capability to safely and effectively manage explosive hazards in diverse operational settings.