Science & Technology for Nuclear Re-entry Systems

The Science & Technology for Nuclear Re-entry Systems program, designated as Program Element (PE) 0603273N, is a Navy initiative under the Department of Defense (DoD) Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) budget. Its primary objective is to support advanced technology development for nuclear re-entry systems, addressing evolving threats and maintaining operational effectiveness. The program is structured to provide pre-program of record research and development, thereby informing future system requirements and reducing technical and programmatic risk for nuclear modernization, as outlined in the 2022 Nuclear Posture Review and National Defense Strategy.

The main project within this program element focuses on the development and maturation of technologies relevant to nuclear delivery, including aeroshells, fuzing, guidance, navigation and control (GNC), advanced capabilities, and testing. The project is executed in coordination with the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (USD(R&E)), U.S. Strategic Command (STRATCOM), and in collaboration with the Air Force. The goal is to advance technologies from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3 to TRL 6 through rigorous ground and flight testing in relevant environments.

Aeroshell advancements are a key focus area, with efforts directed toward developing advanced materials and designs that enhance the survivability of re-entry vehicles during atmospheric re-entry. The program is investing in alternative substrate and thermal protection system (TPS) development, as well as plasma and reentry environmental characterization studies. These improvements are essential for ensuring that re-entry vehicles can withstand the extreme conditions of hypersonic flight and deliver payloads to their intended targets reliably.

Fuzing technology development is another critical objective, aiming to produce highly accurate and reliable systems for detonating nuclear warheads at optimal times and locations. This work ensures the effectiveness and credibility of the nuclear deterrent by maximizing intended effects and minimizing unintended consequences. The program continues to invest in advanced fuzing technologies, with ongoing development and refinement planned for the upcoming fiscal years.

The Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) line item supports the development of robust systems that enable precise target delivery for re-entry vehicles, even in contested environments. Key efforts include the creation of accelerometers capable of handling higher g-loading, radiation-hardened inertial measurement units (IMUs), flight computers, and navigation aids for challenging operational scenarios. The program is also beginning advanced hardened actuator development, which is vital for future subsystem and system integration, particularly for experimental re-entry bodies.

Testing is a foundational component of the program, with a comprehensive regime of ground and flight tests designed to validate system reliability, security, and effectiveness. The program is building towards two experimentation lanes, each incorporating a series of component and subcomponent tests. These tests are supported by algorithm development, battery and power distribution system improvements, and platform integration planning, culminating in full-scale flight tests for system-level validation.

Finally, the Advanced Capability line item addresses classified enhancements that improve the re-entry vehicle's ability to penetrate sophisticated missile defenses. This work is crucial for maintaining a credible deterrent and ensuring that nuclear delivery systems can overcome advanced interception attempts. The program continues to evaluate and develop new capabilities, including advanced sensors and data transfer technologies, with further details available at higher classification levels.