Shipboard Aviation Systems

PE 0604512N: Shipboard Aviation Systems is a Navy research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) program focused on the modernization and sustainment of shipboard aviation systems, specifically those required for the launch and recovery of Navy and Marine Corps aircraft aboard aircraft carriers (CVN), amphibious assault ships, and other air-capable vessels. The program is managed under Budget Activity 5: System Development & Demonstration (SDD), indicating that its projects have passed Milestone B and are in the engineering and manufacturing development phase prior to full-rate production. The objective is to ensure safe, reliable, and cyber-secure operations for both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft in demanding maritime environments.

A central component of this program is the modernization of Aircraft Launch & Recovery Equipment (ALRE), which aims to maintain operational relevance and address obsolescence across 48 fielded subsystems. These modernization efforts cover Visual Landing Aids (VLA), Information Systems, Launcher, Recovery, the Marine Aviation Data Management System (MADMS), and the Aviation Data Management and Control System (ADMACS). Key goals include resolving hardware and software obsolescence, implementing fleet-driven capability upgrades, and meeting evolving cybersecurity requirements. The ALRE Gold Disk program provides diagnostic routines to help fleet technicians troubleshoot and repair faulty circuit cards, improving maintenance efficiency and system uptime.

The Visual Landing Aids (VLA) Long Range Line-Up (LRLS) initiative supports CVN Flight Deck Certification. The LRLS is a solid-state system designed to provide visual cues for approaching fixed-wing aircraft, enhancing safety and recovery operations in all weather and operational environments. Planned activities include continued redesign, preliminary design review (PDR), and critical design review (CDR) for LRLS, with the goal of integrating advanced visual guidance technologies that meet current and future fleet requirements.

The Marine Aviation Data Management System (MADMS) provides integrated shipboard information management to support air and surface operations on amphibious assault ships. MADMS automates data distribution and display, integrates operational systems such as weapons, combat cargo, shipboard planning, and flight deck management, and reduces data replication. Planned efforts include software updates to address fleet feedback and cybersecurity vulnerabilities, as well as integration and test readiness reviews to ensure system reliability and operational effectiveness.

The Aircraft Launch & Recovery Equipment Service Life Management Program (SLMP) focuses on sustaining carrier aviation operations as aircraft launch and recovery loads increase. The SLMP undertakes service life assessment and extension initiatives, establishing a design foundation through structural, reliability, and maintainability analyses. This enables targeted design changes to improve availability and reduce lifecycle costs. A key focus is the Advanced Recovery Control (ARC) Block Upgrade for the Mark 7 arresting gear system, which is essential for Nimitz-class carriers. The ARC upgrade replaces end-of-life control components with modern, cyber-compliant technology, supporting continued carrier operations through 2060.

The Advanced Recovery Control (ARC) Block Upgrade is a major SLMP initiative. Planned activities include hardware development, systems engineering, and environmental testing. The ARC system manages the kinetic energy conversion during aircraft recovery and requires modernization to meet current cybersecurity protocols and operational demands. The program includes prototype procurement, manufacturing support, and software development, with milestones for test readiness and environmental testing scheduled throughout the year.

PE 0604512N: Shipboard Aviation Systems is driven by the need to maintain the safety, reliability, and mission effectiveness of shipboard aviation operations in the face of technological obsolescence, increased operational demands, and cybersecurity threats. The program leverages both government and industry partners to execute development, integration, and testing activities. Planned funding supports the incorporation of MADMS and LRLS, as well as continued ramp-up for the ARC Block Upgrade, ensuring the Navy's aviation launch and recovery systems remain effective and resilient for decades to come.