Navy Tactical Computer Resources

The Navy Tactical Computer Resources program, identified as Program Element (PE) 0604574N, is a Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) initiative under the Navy's System Development & Demonstration (SDD) activity. The program's primary objective is to modernize and sustain the computing infrastructure aboard surface combatants and large deck ships through the development and integration of advanced processing and display systems. This modernization effort replaces legacy systems with more capable and reliable solutions to support evolving combat system requirements, including AEGIS Modernization, Ship Self Defense System (SSDS) MK2, Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (SEWIP), and other Navy platforms.

A major line item within this program is the Common Processing System (CPS), which is focused on providing robust computer processing, memory, data storage, network systems, and input/output interfaces for Navy combat systems. The CPS suite is designed to host critical software applications and ensure compatibility across multiple warfare systems. The program funds system engineering support, technical management, and the development of Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs) to maintain a common baseline and address obsolescence.

Key objectives include the continued qualification of cabinets and associated parts, procurement of testing equipment, and support for future technology refreshes. These efforts are managed by Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Port Hueneme Division (PHD) and NSWC Dahlgren, with contracts awarded for both sustainment and production activities.

For Fiscal Years 2025 and 2026, CPS development activities focus on system engineering to support various combat and weapon system configurations, including AEGIS Ashore and SSDS MK2 modernization. The program also addresses obsolescence issues as they arise, ensuring that the CPS equipment suite remains current and reliable. Funding supports both technical management and engineering analysis, with the goal of improving system readiness and reducing operating costs. The acquisition strategy involves competitively sourced contracts to ensure cost efficiency and alignment with broader government efficiency initiatives.

The Common Display System (CDS) is another major line item, with objectives aimed at providing advanced display and peripheral solutions for Navy combat systems. The CDS suite includes Technology Insertion (TI) 16 MOD 1 consoles, Thin Client Displays (TCDs), Multi-Mission Displays (MMDs), and related equipment. These upgrades support AEGIS modernization, DDG-1000, SSDS MK2, Gun Weapon System (GWS), SEWIP, and other Navy programs.

The program funds technical management, ECP development, and future technology refresh efforts to maintain a common baseline and address unique requirements from user programs. CDS development in FY 2025 and FY 2026 emphasizes system engineering support for various combat and weapon system configurations. Specific activities include updating equipment drawings, upgrading design elements, and addressing obsolescence within the CDS suite.

Engineering analysis is conducted to resolve field configuration issues, improve reliability, enhance readiness, and reduce operating costs. The program leverages contracts with NSWC PHD, NSWC Dahlgren, General Dynamics, and DRS Technologies, among others, to execute these objectives. Both CPS and CDS lines are structured to support ongoing modernization and sustainment needs, with funding allocated for technical management, engineering support, and acquisition activities.

The program is responsive to government directives on efficiency and workforce optimization, as reflected in minor budget adjustments for advisory services and civilian personnel. No significant changes are projected between FY 2025 and FY 2026, indicating a stable and sustained effort to advance Navy tactical computing capabilities.