Warfighter Protection Advanced Technology

The Warfighter Protection Advanced Technology (PE 0603729N) program is a Navy Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on the advanced development and demonstration of technologies that improve warfighter performance, safety, and survivability. Managed by the Office of Naval Research (ONR), this program element supports the Navy's ability to enhance, maintain, and sustain warfighter effectiveness by investing in science and technology solutions that address both current and future operational needs. The program aligns with the National Defense Strategy and is guided by research priorities set by the Chief of Naval Research, ensuring coordination across the Naval Research Enterprise.

Within this program, the primary line item funds efforts at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4-6, focusing on the development and integration of subsystems and components into prototypes for field experiments or simulated tests. The objectives include advancing technologies in biocentric systems, medical concepts, intelligent and autonomous systems, decision sciences, information warfare, and human performance. Specific goals are to mature these technologies for transition into acquisition and procurement programs, directly supporting operational readiness and force protection.

A key area of focus is Naval Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) and warfighter performance. This includes the development of enhanced communication systems for improved situational awareness, mitigation strategies for hearing protection, and assessment tools to reduce hazardous noise exposures. Additional objectives involve the development of acoustic camouflage and decoy technologies, protective gear against directed energy systems, and countermeasures for extreme environmental exposures such as heat, cold, and smoke. These efforts aim to ensure that sailors and marines can operate effectively and safely in a variety of challenging environments.

The program also emphasizes advancements in expeditionary medicine and physiological monitoring. This includes the development of artificial intelligence-driven devices for real-time monitoring of personnel status and advanced physiological and cognitive monitoring technologies. Distributed additive manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies is also pursued to address contested logistics scenarios. These initiatives are designed to improve medical readiness and response capabilities during combat, natural disasters, or epidemics.

Another significant objective is the enhancement of training and simulation capabilities. The program is accelerating the development of Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) Training for Carrier Strike Groups, enabling mission rehearsal while deployed at sea. Additional efforts include the creation of data visualization tools and prototype systems to capture and analyze submarine crew decision-making during simulation training, supporting improved training outcomes and operational decision-making.

The Congressional Adds component of the program supports targeted research and technology development initiatives not included in the base program. For FY 2024 and FY 2025, these include projects such as thermite firefighting robotics, the Bone Marrow Registry Program for contingency medical support, warfighter resilience and readiness assessments using machine learning, laser protective eyewear research, and the development of OmniBlast Water sensors for underwater blast exposure monitoring. Other projects include the creation of an automated resuscitation catheter for hemorrhage control and the finalization of a Smart Automated Critical Care System for remote advanced medical care.