QRC

The QRC (Quick Reaction Capability) program, outlined in Line Item 0595 of the Navy's Aircraft Procurement budget, is designed to rapidly address emergent operational needs through modifications to existing aircraft platforms. The primary objective of the QRC initiative is to provide the Navy with the ability to quickly field solutions in response to unforeseen threats, technological gaps, or urgent mission requirements. This program enables the Navy to maintain operational readiness and technological superiority by implementing targeted upgrades or changes outside of the standard acquisition cycle.

The QRC program is managed by the Navy under Appropriation 1506N, specifically within Budget Activity 05 (Modification of Aircraft) and Budget Sub Activity 1 (Modification of Aircraft). The focus is on procurement activities rather than research and development, emphasizing the modification and enhancement of aircraft already in service. The program does not include the procurement of new aircraft units; instead, it allocates resources for upgrading existing platforms to meet immediate operational demands.

For Fiscal Years 2024 through 2026, the QRC line item requests funding justified by the need to address classified requirements that cannot be met through routine acquisition processes. The classified nature of the program means that specific details regarding the types of modifications, the aircraft involved, and the operational scenarios addressed are not publicly disclosed. However, the justification for these expenditures is provided separately in classified documentation to ensure oversight and accountability.

The QRC program does not include advance procurement or initial spares, as indicated in the budget summary. This suggests that the modifications are intended to be implemented quickly, with minimal lead time and without the need for additional spare parts procurement. The absence of flyaway and unit cost data further underscores the program's focus on rapid, targeted upgrades rather than the acquisition of new systems or platforms.

While the resource summary does not specify individual sub-programs or related program elements, the QRC line item is structured to support a wide range of potential modifications. These could include enhancements to avionics, sensors, communications systems, survivability features, or mission-specific equipment. The flexibility of the QRC approach allows the Navy to respond to dynamic operational environments and evolving threats, ensuring that fleet capabilities remain aligned with strategic objectives.

The QRC program is not designated as a Major Defense Acquisition Program (MDAP) or Major Automated Information System (MAIS), reflecting its relatively small scale and rapid implementation timeline. The program's classification status and separate justification process are intended to protect sensitive operational details while facilitating timely decision-making and resource allocation. This ensures that the Navy can act swiftly to address critical needs without compromising security or transparency.