Joint Service Explosive Ordnance Development

The JNT Service EOD Development Program Element (PE 0603654N) is a joint service initiative managed by the Navy, focused on research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) to modernize Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) capabilities across the Department of Defense. The overarching goal is to address capability gaps in EOD tools, equipment, and systems, ensuring that EOD forces can safely and effectively detect, identify, render safe, recover, and dispose of explosive threats, including unexploded ordnance (UXO), improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and other hazardous devices. The program supports the DoD's only joint EOD programs and is executed under the authority of the Secretary of the Navy, who serves as the Executive Agent for EOD Technology and Training.

JT Service Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) System (Project 0377) aims to deliver advanced EOD technologies and systems through a modular, open architecture approach. Its objectives include the development and integration of new render-safe tools, rapid area detection (RAD) systems, rapid large area clearance (RLAC) capabilities, and timed firing devices (TFD). The program leverages prototyping, user evaluation, and iterative technology insertion to address evolving threats and operational requirements.

Key efforts include transitioning RLAC prototypes, developing RAD software algorithms, advancing the Standoff Render Safe and Disrupt (SRSD) portfolio, and finalizing TFD development for production. The acquisition strategy emphasizes evolutionary upgrades, competition, and rapid fielding of mature technologies.

Expeditionary Diving Systems (Project 1317) supports the development of specialized diving equipment for Navy EOD and Expeditionary Mine Countermeasures (ExMCM) operations. The project focuses on three main areas: Diver Safety/Life Support Systems (such as the MK 16 MOD 3 Underwater Breathing Apparatus), Advanced Diver Integrated Sensors (STRIDENT), and Command Detonation Systems.

Efforts include continued development and testing of the MK 16 MOD 3, ongoing production and fleet integration of STRIDENT sensors, and further evaluation of next-generation remote underwater firing devices. The program prioritizes low acoustic and magnetic signatures for diver safety and leverages innovative contracting and acquisition pathways to accelerate fielding.

Joint Counter Radio-Controlled IED Electronic Warfare (JCREW, Project 3177) is dedicated to countering threats in the radio frequency (RF) spectrum, including radio-controlled IEDs and small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS). The project develops and integrates electronic warfare (EW) systems for mounted, dismounted, and fixed site operations, ensuring rapid adaptation to emerging RF threats.

Objectives include completing Technical Insertion Package 5 for JCREW systems, which incorporates advanced RF techniques, built-in test capabilities, and wireless networking. The project also supports ongoing analysis of alternatives and modernization for future technology insertions, maintaining alignment with evolving threat environments and joint requirements.

Mine Expeditionary Response Vehicle (MESR, Project 3447) focuses on the development of unmanned underwater systems to support Navy EOD and ExMCM missions. The MESR program aims to provide portable, remote stand-off capabilities for detecting, classifying, and neutralizing underwater explosive threats such as sea mines and maritime IEDs.

Activities include continued integration and testing of advanced payloads, artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) enhancements, and automated target recognition (ATR) algorithms. The project also advances deep-water threat response capabilities, including system hardening for greater operating depths and secure communications. Acquisition strategies emphasize open competition, user operational evaluation, and rapid prototyping to meet urgent operational needs.

Collectively, the JNT Service EOD Development line item supports a comprehensive modernization effort for joint EOD forces, integrating new technologies and systems to reduce risk to operators and enhance mission effectiveness. The program employs competitive contracting, evolutionary acquisition, and rapid prototyping to accelerate the delivery of critical capabilities.

Each project within the line item is aligned with validated requirements, joint capability documents, and strategic roadmaps, ensuring that investments directly address operational gaps and emerging threats in the EOD mission space. The program's objectives are further supported by rigorous test and evaluation, modeling and simulation, and user feedback mechanisms, which inform technology development and ensure operational suitability.

By maintaining a focus on modularity, open architecture, and continuous technology insertion, the JNT Service EOD Development program seeks to provide the joint force with adaptable, resilient, and state-of-the-art EOD capabilities in support of global military operations.