Precision Strike Weapons Development Program

The Precision Strike Weapons Development Program is part of the Navy's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation efforts. It aims to advance weapon technologies for enhanced anti-surface and land strike capabilities. This initiative focuses on developing armament and munitions that integrate seamlessly with current and future systems to operate effectively in Anti-Access Area-Denial environments. The program's objectives include creating weapons with selectable outputs, low collateral damage, and precision lethality. Additionally, it explores alternative warhead technologies and extended range capabilities.

The Next Generation Strike Weapons (NGSW) project is a key component of this program. It seeks to develop a Family of Systems based on the Analysis of Alternatives results, which identified optimal solutions for land-attack and maritime strike capabilities. The project leverages both mature and emerging technologies to incrementally field these solutions between 2020 and 2032. By maintaining a secure environment for ongoing analysis, the NGSW ensures that the Navy can validate current weapon effectiveness and make informed investment decisions.

Another significant effort within this program is the Advanced Aerial Refueling Store (AARS) project. This initiative focuses on enhancing aerial refueling capabilities for both manned and unmanned platforms like the F/A-18 and MQ-25. The AARS aims to improve safety and reliability by incorporating drogue stabilization technologies, advanced health diagnostics, and real-time situational awareness for unmanned operations. These upgrades are expected to reduce refueling mishaps and improve operational efficiency.

The CAD/PAD Digital Twin Modeling project is also part of the Precision Strike Weapons Development Program. It involves developing digital models to predict the service life of Cartridge Actuated Devices/Propellant Actuated Devices used in Navy Air Crew Common Ejection Seats. This modeling effort supports a transition towards condition-based maintenance, potentially leading to cost savings by extending the useful service life of these devices while addressing obsolescence issues.