LINK EVERGREEN

The LINK EVERGREEN program, outlined in Program Element (PE) 0603764M of the Navy's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) budget, is a classified initiative focused on advanced component development and prototyping. Administered under Budget Activity 4 (Advanced Component Development & Prototypes), the program's primary goal is to support research and development activities that enhance the Navy's operational capabilities through the creation and testing of advanced technologies. The classified nature of LINK EVERGREEN means that specific technical objectives, performance goals, and operational requirements are not publicly disclosed. The program is justified annually to Congress in a classified format, in accordance with Executive Order 13526, Section 1.4(a).

For Fiscal Year (FY) 2026, LINK EVERGREEN funding supports ongoing research, development, and prototyping efforts intended to address emerging threats and maintain technological superiority. The program is managed by the Department of the Navy, which oversees the execution of advanced RDT&E activities, including the integration of new systems and components into existing platforms. The budget justification emphasizes the importance of LINK EVERGREEN in sustaining the Navy's strategic edge and ensuring readiness for future operational challenges.

Project 1972 is the sole project under this program element, receiving the entirety of the allocated funds. The objectives of Project 1972 are classified, but it is reasonable to infer that the project focuses on the development and demonstration of advanced technologies that can be rapidly transitioned to operational use. The project likely involves collaboration with other Department of Defense agencies, industry partners, and research institutions to leverage cutting-edge innovations and accelerate the deployment of critical capabilities.

Budget adjustments for LINK EVERGREEN in FY 2026 include congressional directed reductions, SBIR/STTR transfers, program adjustments, and rate/miscellaneous adjustments. These changes reflect the dynamic nature of defense budgeting, where priorities are continually reassessed to align with evolving strategic needs and fiscal constraints. The program's funding profile demonstrates a commitment to sustained investment in advanced technology development, despite fluctuations in annual appropriations and congressional actions.

The acquisition strategy for LINK EVERGREEN is also classified, as noted in the budget documentation. This approach is typical for programs involving sensitive technologies or capabilities that are critical to national security. By maintaining a classified acquisition strategy, the Navy ensures that details regarding contractor selection, procurement timelines, and technology integration remain protected from public disclosure. This safeguards operational advantages and minimizes risks of adversary exploitation.

While specific accomplishments and planned program activities are not available in the unclassified budget documents, the substantial funding allocated to LINK EVERGREEN underscores its significance within the Navy's broader modernization efforts. The program is expected to deliver advanced prototypes and components that can be tested and evaluated in operational environments, providing valuable insights for future procurement decisions and capability enhancements. The classified nature of the program ensures that sensitive information is appropriately protected, while still enabling congressional oversight through annual classified budget submissions.