Ship-Towed Array Surveillance Systems

The Ship-Towed Array Surveillance Systems program, outlined in Program Element (PE) 0204313N, is a Navy research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) effort focused on advancing the capabilities of ocean surveillance ships known as T-AGOS. These ships play a critical role in supporting the Integrated Undersea Surveillance System (IUSS) mission by providing platforms capable of theater-wide anti-submarine warfare (ASW) through passive and active acoustic surveillance. The primary objective of this program is to recapitalize the Navy's fleet of Auxiliary General Ocean Surveillance (T-AGOS) ships, transitioning from older T-AGOS 19 and T-AGOS 23 Class vessels to a new class of seven T-AGOS 25 ships, in accordance with the 2016 N81 Force Structure Assessment.

The program's goals center on the design, integration, and operational testing of the T-AGOS 25 Class ships. These vessels are equipped with the Surveillance Towed-Array Sensor System (SURTASS), which enables the collection of undersea acoustic data. The data is processed onboard and transmitted via satellite to shore stations for further analysis, supporting fleet commanders in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. The ships are operated by the Military Sealift Command (MSC) and are integral to the Navy's anti-submarine warfare mission, providing persistent surveillance and data to inform operational decisions.

The principal budget line within this program element funds the detailed design, engineering integration, and total ship system integration for the new T-AGOS 25 Class. Activities include industry studies, model testing at facilities such as Carderock in Bethesda, MD, SURTASS integration, and the development of technical data packages and specifications. The program also supports systems integration for command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence (C4I), as well as safety and risk management efforts. These activities are essential to ensure that the new ships meet operational requirements and can be effectively fielded.

A significant portion of the FY 2026 budget request is allocated to test and evaluation activities. The program supports both Developmental Test & Evaluation (DT&E) and Operational Test & Evaluation (OT&E), with the Operational Test and Evaluation Force (OPTEVFOR) serving as a key partner. Planned efforts include Phase B developmental testing, operational test preparations for cyber testing, independent test and evaluation capabilities, and trials in calm and rough water conditions. These activities are designed to validate system performance, ensure readiness, and address cybersecurity and operational resilience requirements.

The program's acquisition strategy has involved issuing Requests for Proposal (RFPs) for industry studies, detail design, and construction. The detail design contract for the T-AGOS 25 Class was awarded in FY 2023, with options for the lead hull's construction and six follow-on ships. In May 2024, the option for continuing the lead hull's detail design was exercised, ensuring continuity in development and integration activities. This approach aims to leverage industry expertise while maintaining oversight and alignment with Navy operational needs.

Justification for the program's funding increases in FY 2026 includes the need for expanded operational testing and evaluation, particularly in areas such as cyber resilience and independent verification of system capabilities. The increase also supports enhanced data collection, analysis, and reporting to validate the readiness of the new ship class. Additionally, adjustments have been made to promote efficiencies and align with government-wide cost reduction initiatives, as directed by Executive Order 14222.