Navy Logistic Productivity

The Navy Logistic Productivity program, funded under the Department of Defense's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) appropriation, aims to enhance the efficiency, accountability, and technological advancement of Navy logistics operations. Managed primarily by the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP), this program supports both advanced component development and prototype evaluation in realistic operating environments. The overarching goal is to address mission-related capability and technology gaps, with a focus on improving the productivity of both civilian and military personnel. The program also seeks to streamline the introduction of new technologies and enhance the quality of work-life for Navy personnel.

0356: NADACS Inventory is a key line item within the Navy Logistic Productivity program, dedicated to the development and deployment of the Naval Autonomous Data Collection System (NADACS). NADACS is an enterprise-level, multi-source digital tracking tool designed to improve asset visibility, accountability, and auditability. It leverages handheld and fixed readers, mesh networking, and sensors to collect and integrate data from barcoding, RFID, and IoT sensors. The system supports the Navy's compliance with Congressional and Departmental mandates for accurate asset tracking, utilizing 5G cellular and satellite communications to transmit data and provide end users with a comprehensive web-based asset management interface.

Within the NADACS inventory project, several specific initiatives are funded. The Storage Location RFID Tech Expansion seeks to enhance warehouse and equipment tagging through the use of robust, tamper-resistant, and all-weather RFID tags. This effort is intended to improve the tracking of items and equipment at Fleet Logistics Centers, shipyards, and air stations. The Alternative Data Gateway for Logistics Data initiative explores multiple fixed and mobile gateways for data collection, leveraging emerging technologies such as 5G, Iridium SBD modems, and high-speed WiFi to expand the reach and reliability of logistics data transmission.

Another notable NADACS initiative is Asset Tracking in a Box, which involves the development of sensors, collectors, and communication gateways to support automated asset tracking. This includes the exploration of automated vehicles, such as the Fetch Robot, for RFID data collection across multiple sites. Additionally, the Integration of FACET with NADACS GUI focuses on software development to centralize warehousing processes, enabling users to manage multiple logistics functions from a single interface. These projects are executed through firm fixed-price contracts and are subject to quarterly performance reviews by the NAVSUP Project Management Office.

3223: Logistics R&D represents the research and development arm of the Navy Logistic Productivity program. This line item funds a broad spectrum of projects aimed at addressing high-priority enterprise needs, as identified by NAVSUP's Executive Steering Group. Key objectives include the development of formalized food service management techniques and modernization of quality-of-life services. Other priorities are the assessment and improvement of warfighter clothing protection, enhancement of logistics data access and information sharing, and leveraging breakthrough technologies for supply chain processing. The Logistics R&D program also supports market research on emerging supply chain technologies and the incorporation of STEM projects performed by interns and academia.

Specific projects under Logistics R&D include Digital Logistics, which automates IT asset inventory collection and develops location beaconing technologies for GPS-denied environments. The Supply Chain Optimization initiative focuses on data science, IT application development, and quality engineering, including reverse engineering and additive manufacturing to mitigate risks associated with unsupported platforms. Clothing Protection for the Warfighter encompasses research into garment sizing, footwear standardization, cold weather clothing development, and environmental impact assessments related to textile fiber fragmentation and PFAS concerns. These efforts aim to improve readiness, safety, and comfort for Navy personnel while reducing environmental and logistical risks.