Submarine SWFTS Modernization

The Submarine SWFTS Modernization program, funded under PE 0604503N, is a comprehensive Navy research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on modernizing the Submarine Warfare Federated Tactical Systems (SWFTS). SWFTS is a family of interdependent systems that collectively enhance submarine tactical, sonar, navigation, imaging, and electronic warfare capabilities. The program's overarching goal is to ensure U.S. submarines maintain technological superiority in detection, situational awareness, and survivability against evolving threats. It also aims to improve cyber-resilience and accelerate the delivery of new capabilities to the fleet.

Project 0219: Sub Sonar Improvement (ENG) centers on the continued development and modernization of the AN/BQQ-10(V) Acoustic Rapid Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) Insertion (A-RCI) submarine sonar system. The primary objectives are to introduce new capabilities through Technical Insertion (TI) and Advanced Processing Build (APB) cycles, transition to modern DevSecOps software practices, and migrate to a cloud-based architecture. Planned activities support the completion of an improved environmental sensor for all Virginia-class submarines and a Lightweight Low-Cost Conformal Array (LwLCCA) upgrade for SSBNs to enhance navigation safety and situational awareness. The program also delivers block updates to sonar systems across multiple submarine classes to maintain acoustic superiority through improved detection, classification, and localization.

Project 0236: SSN Combat Control System Improvement (ENG) is responsible for the AN/BYG-1 combat control system, which integrates tactical control, weapon/payload management, and Tactical Local Area Network (TacLAN) functions. The project's goals include continuous hardware and software upgrades to address COTS obsolescence, enhance cybersecurity, and expand payload integration, such as support for advanced torpedoes and future weapons. Activities include the development and integration of new hardware and software, ongoing cybersecurity enhancements, and payload integration for MK48 ADCAP variants. The project also funds the development of Information Assurance (IA) subsystems and Onboard Team Trainer (OBTT) capabilities to improve crew readiness and system security.

Project 0253: Navigation & Electro-Optical Support focuses on the development and improvement of the Integrated Submarine Imaging System (ISIS) and low-profile mast technologies. The objectives are to enhance submarine navigation, visual intelligence gathering, and the employment of surveillance and weapons systems, particularly in high-density and littoral environments. Planned efforts include the New Mast Capability Development Program, which introduces emerging technologies for future mast modules, and the Legacy Mast Improvements Program, which retrofits mature technologies into existing masts. These efforts aim to ensure that the submarine fleet maintains state-of-the-art imaging and situational awareness capabilities.

Project 0775: Submarine Support Equipment Program is dedicated to advancing submarine electronic warfare (EW) systems, specifically the AN/BLQ-10. The program's goals are to develop and integrate new EW capabilities, such as the server-based RADAR Wide Band, Digital Early Warning Receiver (DEWR), and next-generation Submarine Tethered Expendable Buoys (STEB). These upgrades are critical for maintaining tactical ship safety and operational effectiveness in increasingly complex electromagnetic environments. Planned activities include completing the development of the RADAR Wide Band capability, continuing STEB development, and initiating DEWR development, while also supporting ongoing improvements in tactical software and system architecture.

Across all projects, the Submarine SWFTS Modernization program emphasizes open architecture designs, rapid technology insertion, and agile development processes to accelerate the deployment of new capabilities. The program also prioritizes cybersecurity, with dedicated investments in DevSecOps, IA enhancements, and cloud migration to protect submarine systems against emerging cyber threats. Coordination among multiple Navy program offices and acquisition resource managers ensures that upgrades are synchronized across all submarine classes, maintaining interoperability and operational readiness.