Ocean Warfighting Environment Applied Research

The Ocean Warfighting Environment Applied Research program, managed by the Navy, focuses on enhancing U.S. maritime superiority through applied research. This research transforms basic scientific knowledge into tactical advantages by understanding and predicting oceanic and atmospheric environments to support naval operations. The program develops predictive models and technologies that provide new or enhanced warfare capabilities, particularly in the Battlespace Environment (BSE). Research is conducted using various platforms, including shipboard, airborne, and space-based systems, both piloted and autonomous.

A key objective is to provide real-time environmental knowledge to support tactical decision-making. This is achieved through direct observation of physical environments and the assimilation of these observations into predictive models. The Office of Naval Research (ONR) manages this research portfolio, ensuring naval forces are equipped with necessary tools to deter conflict and succeed in operations when required. The program aligns with the National Defense Strategy and addresses priorities set by the Chief of Naval Research.

Efforts are categorized into several focus areas: Coastal Geosciences/Optics, Marine Mammals and Biology, Marine Meteorology, Task Force Ocean (formerly Ocean Acoustics), Physical Oceanography, and contributions to the National Oceanographic Partnership Program (NOPP). Each area targets specific challenges such as improving sonar technology for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), understanding marine mammal responses to underwater sound, enhancing weather prediction models for naval operations, and developing advanced sensors for environmental monitoring.

The Ocean Warfighting Environment Applied Research program seeks to advance scientific understanding and technological capabilities in maritime environments. By leveraging cutting-edge research across multiple domains, the program aims to provide the Navy with superior environmental awareness and predictive capabilities essential for maintaining operational effectiveness in diverse maritime settings.