Navy Research

Instead of relying on sound in any way, nonacoustic detection of submarines involves electromagnetics, radar, optics, and environmental techniques. Although both the Navy and the Office of the Secretary of Defense oversee nonacoustic antisubmarine warfare research programs, each has taken a different approach to solving the detection problem. The Office of the Secretary of Defense has focused on long-range basic research aimed at developing the scientific parameters needed for understanding nonacoustic technology applications. The Navy program, in contrast, has been aimed at near-term applied research in developing nonacoustic devices that can be quickly deployed in the fleet. This report presents information gathered from program participants and other informed sources on the key issues affecting any decision on which group should be given control over nonacoustic antisubmarine warfare research. Most experts agree that, regardless of who the manager is, a settling down period is needed during which the program can achieve a measure of stability and move forward.

GAO found that: (1) the OSD program is focused on long-range basic research required to develop scientific parameters for understanding nonacoustic technology applications; (2) the Navy program consists of near-term applied research to develop nonacoustic devices that can be deployed more quickly; (3) supporters of continuing the OSD program in addition to Navy research believe that such nonacoustic initiatives such as radar research need new, innovative, long-term research approaches; (4) supporters of Navy-led nonacoustic-ASW research believe that the present approach of developing detection devices to be used in conjunction with acoustic tracking techniques in place or in development is more realistic; and (5) most experts agree that whatever office manages the program, the program will need some time to achieve a measure of stability and move forward.