Navy Fast-Tracks Weapons With New Rapid Capabilities Office

By Johnny Franks, Warrior Editorial Fellow

The US Navy’s recent initiative to streamline acquisition and adoption processes represents a critical effort to overcome the inherent hurdles of bureaucracy at home. The Rapid Capabilities Process represents a significant evolution in the way the Navy approaches the development and deployment of new weapons and technologies. Central to this process is the goal of shortening the timeline from conceptualization to operational deployment, a crucial aspect in addressing the swiftly changing landscape of global security threats and technological advancements.

One key aspect of this approach involves integrating existing systems with new technologies to create more versatile and capable weapons platforms. An illustrative example of this strategy was the adaptation of the Aegis combat system, traditionally mounted on cruisers and destroyers, for use in more flexible and potentially mobile configurations.

The initiative led to a trial run using the unmanned surface vessel Ranger, which successfully launched a Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) employing a mobile version of the Aegis combat system. The SM-6 is a versatile missile in the U.S. Navy’s arsenal, known for its multifaceted role in providing both offensive and defensive capabilities. Designed and produced by Raytheon, the SM-6 can engage aerial threats, such as enemy aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as cruise missiles. One of its standout features is its ability to be used for terminal ballistic missile defense, making it a critical component of the Navy’s integrated air and missile defense strategy.

This test showcased the Navy’s enhanced ability to swiftly implement sophisticated defense mechanisms across various operational scenarios. Establishing a Rapid Capabilities Office within the Program Executive Officer for Integrated Warfare Systems (PEO IWS) underscores the Navy’s commitment to this expedited process. This office focuses on identifying and leveraging existing technologies to meet immediate operational needs, demonstrating a pragmatic approach to capability enhancement.

The HELIOS laser system is another example of the Navy’s efforts to blend new technology with existing platforms, enhancing its vessels’ overall combat effectiveness and versatility. HELIOS represents an advancement in laser weaponry, offering precision targeting capabilities with lethal and non-lethal options. Its integration into the Aegis combat system signifies a strategic enhancement of existing naval assets, providing a scalable and adaptable solution to evolving threats.

Moreover, the Navy’s approach to streamlining the acquisition process is evident in delegating acquisition authorities to program managers and executive officers, enabling a more agile and responsive procurement system. This shift facilitates the removal of bureaucratic obstacles, accelerating the decision-making process. Among the initiatives benefiting from this accelerated acquisition process are developing and deploying the MQ-25 Stingray unmanned aerial refueling tanker, advanced missile systems, laser technologies, and unmanned undersea vehicles. Such efforts reflect a focused strategy to maintain and enhance the Navy’s technological superiority through rapid innovation.