Leveraging Enterprise Technologies for Holistic AI, Logistics, Integration, Transformation, and Yield is a premier technology consortium focused specifically in supporting naval surface technology innovation to provide research, development, test and evaluation, analysis, integration and certification of complex naval warfare systems across a broad range of systems-related areas and disciplines.
LETHALITY offers Federally-funded research and business opportunities for large and small companies and academia, especially small and emerging companies that have not traditionally worked with the government in the past. Upcoming solicitations will encompass a wide range of programs and technology areas, including these listed below.
Boundary extension of ‘big data’ analysis tools used for data classification, clustering, dimensionality reduction, predictive analysis, visualization, and forensic analysis of streaming data. Research may include artificial intelligence/autonomy/deep learning for statistical pattern recognition, vehicle control, semantic reasoning, and cyber defense. Research may include threat assessment and enhancement of RF monitoring, and recording/analysis. Consider advanced Viz concepts for augmented reality, and personnel training/readiness. Artificial Intelligence solutions are sought in general to provide data refinement, data validation, logistics support, prioritization, assessment, decision making support, fault detection, and support operational readiness.
Research, development, demonstration, and exploitation of tools, techniques, and procedures that expand the state of the art in software engineering practices, advanced computing and computation, and heterogeneous/homogenous computing environments throughout the system lifecycle. This includes hardware and software architecture and design, formal verification tools and techniques, algorithmic development and design, clustering/high availability computing stacks, compiler technologies, software assurance tools, automatic code generation, networking tools and the necessary hardware and software to improve the state of the art in the field of computation and advanced computing.
Research, development, demonstration, test, and evaluation of tools, techniques, procedures and processes that expand the state of the art in network architecture, engineering, infrastructure. This includes advanced design and implementation of secure, resilient, and scalable network solutions supporting critical naval operations across diverse environments. Key focus areas include software-defined networking, network function virtualization, advanced routing and switching protocols, zero-trust architectures, and the integration of next-generation wireless and satellite communication systems. This area also encompasses the development of robust and adaptable infrastructure solutions, including enterprise data centers, cloud computing environments, and tactical edge networks. Research and prototyping efforts may include optimizing network performance, enhancing cybersecurity posture through advanced threat detection and mitigation, and ensuring seamless interoperability across various platforms and domains. Emphasis is placed on automation, predictive analytics for network management, and the development of tools for rapid deployment and configuration of secure network infrastructure to meet evolving mission requirements.
Research, development, demonstration, test, and evaluation of tools, techniques, procedures, and processes for communication across long distances without using satellite communication primarily leveraging proven Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) equipment for rapid and cost-effective fielding. Modern mission environments require reliable high data throughput between sites (be it inland to inland, coast to inland or a combination), yet current communications rely on satellite communications, fiber and line of sight microwave systems that are vulnerable in contested or denied environments. Technologies may include harnessing atmospheric phenomena to take line of sight communications to beyond line of sight. Research and prototyping efforts may include optimizing link performance, ensuring seamless interoperability across various platforms. Emphasis is placed on link resilience automation, predictive analytics for network management, and the development of tools for data flow management and adaptation based on link performance.
Research, development, demonstration, test, and evaluation of tools, techniques, procedures, and processes that expand the state of the art in cyber warfare, cyber engineering practices, and system security engineering practices throughout the system lifecycle. This includes advanced offensive and defensive applications, technologies (anti-tamper, supply chain risk management, hardware and software, microcode to application layer), and tools supporting vulnerability assessment and adversarial assessment (such as red team) cyber initiatives in all aspects.
To secure control systems including, but not limited to facility control systems (e.g., HVAC, access control, AMS) against cyber intrusion. There is a critical requirement for methodologies and technologies that harden OT networks, detect anomalies, and isolate compromised systems to prevent adversaries from degrading physical infrastructure via digital vectors.
Research, development, demonstration, and analysis of alternatives associated with virtualization technologies, including hardware abstraction techniques (hypervisors) and operating environment abstraction techniques (containers). Virtualization solutions to include dynamic resource allocation, cyber resilience, real-time performance assessment, heterogeneous hypervisor deployment, and incorporation of service-oriented concepts. Prototype efforts to include execution of hardware and software solutions that meet a wide range of Navy needs for both laboratory variations, portable, and shipboard environments.
Research, development, demonstration, test, integration and evaluation of tools, techniques, procedures, and processes that expand the state of the art in MBSE methodologies and digital engineering practices across the system lifecycle. This includes the development and application of comprehensive system architecture models encompassing operational concepts, mission profiles, interface definitions, and system performance specifications, with rigorous application of Modular Open Systems Approach principles to ensure interoperability, scalability, and alignment with DoD/DoW cybersecurity and systems safety standards. Research and prototyping efforts may include the development and evaluation of tools to accelerate model development, automate topology mapping and data ingest, and establish digital engineering environments that serve as authoritative sources of truth for design, integration, and verification activities. Emphasis is placed on the use of virtual and digital twin technologies to simulate system behavior, evaluate architectural trade-offs, and assess the impacts of design changes prior to physical implementation.
Research, development, demonstration, test, and evaluation of tools, techniques, procedures, and processes that expand the state of the art in systems engineering and integration practices across the full system lifecycle. This includes requirements analysis, system architecture and design, interface definition and control, trade study development and evaluation, integration, verification and validation, and lifecycle sustainment planning in support of complex naval systems and systems-of-systems. Key focus areas include the development and maintenance of requirements traceability, configuration management, risk and issue management, and in-service engineering support to rapidly address performance issues and implement necessary upgrades on fielded systems. Emphasis is placed on the application of structured lifecycle processes to ensure interoperability, systems safety, and operational readiness across diverse and distributed naval training and operational environments.
Design, development, and integration of platforms for loitering munitions and precision effects delivery with autonomous target acquisition, engagement, and payload deployment. This includes loitering munition platforms with extended endurance, advanced guidance systems, terminal homing capabilities, and precision warhead or effects packages. Technologies encompass autonomous target recognition and discrimination, real-time threat assessment, cooperative engagement with manned and unmanned platforms, secure command and control links, and integration with fire control and targeting systems. Capabilities include precision strike against mobile and stationary targets, area denial operations, and effects delivery in contested electromagnetic environments with minimal collateral impact.
Research, development, demonstration, test, and evaluation of tools, techniques, procedures, and processes that integrate Unmanned Aerial Systems into inspection and surveying based for a human on the loop paradigm vice a human in the loop paradigm with the goal of reducing task duration, improving safety and improving data collection. Technologies may include electro-optical and infrared sensors, radio frequency detection, spectrum analysis, direction finding, hyperspectral, Light Detection and Ranging, Ground Penetrating Radar, ultrasonic, and Electromagnetic Acoustic Transducer. Technologies also encompass post processing of captured data through adaptive learning systems, performance analytics, digital twins, and identification of areas of concern that are aligned with Navy preventative maintenance standards. Training with this new workflow to include autonomous system operation, payload management, and integration with manned-unmanned teaming concepts for enhanced effectiveness.
Advanced training systems, simulation environments, and operator proficiency assessment for unmanned aerial and ground vehicle operations or counter-unmanned operations across the full spectrum of naval missions. This includes high-fidelity digital twins and synthetic environments for mission rehearsal, hardware-in-the-loop simulation, virtual reality and augmented reality training platforms, and distributed simulation networks for multi-operator and multi-platform coordination. Technologies encompass adaptive learning systems, performance analytics, fatigue and stress monitoring, and certification protocols aligned with naval aviation standards. Training applications include autonomous system operation, swarm coordination, contested environment operations, payload management, and integration with manned-unmanned teaming concepts for enhanced operational effectiveness.
Comprehensive detection, surveillance, tracking, and neutralization capabilities for hostile and non-cooperative unmanned aerial systems across the electromagnetic spectrum. This may include radar systems (including phased-array and passive coherent location), electro-optical and infrared sensors, radio frequency detection and direction finding, acoustic sensing, and multi-sensor fusion for persistent air picture development. Technologies encompass kinetic and non-kinetic defeat mechanisms including directed energy systems, electronic warfare and jamming, net-centric engagement coordination, and rapid response protocols. Integration with air defense systems, command and control networks, and real-time threat alerting ensures layered protection of critical naval facilities, operational areas, and force protection zones.
Design, procure, integrate, install, test, and certify next-generation range training, telecommunication, telemetry, and infrastructure systems, primarily leveraging proven COTS equipment for rapid and cost-effective fielding. Key focus areas include the development and modernization of Joint Live-Virtual-Constructive test and training environments. Capability to design, procure, integrate, and test complex infrastructure solutions that comply with all DoW security mandates and environmental standards.
Advancement of sensor technologies that result in small, preferably chip-scale, low-cost, rugged, and accurate sensors that address measurement parameters of need for the Navy. The sensors must exhibit long-term stability or direct measurement traceability to the International System of Units (SI) in order to significantly reduce or completely eliminate the need for periodic calibration during the useful life of the system being measured. To the extent possible, the sensors will be installed directly into Navy systems to accurately test or monitor the system performance. Utilization of the sensor technology into portable test equipment used for maintenance, test, or repair of Navy systems would also be desired. Power for the sensors and data collection from the sensors must also be addressed as part of the prototyping process.
Exploration and application of metrology research to address Navy measurement capability gaps, especially in support of emerging measurement requirements for advanced weapons technologies, including but not limited to high energy lasers, high power microwave and radio frequency systems, hypersonic, global positioning, additive manufacturing, and quantum sensing. The primary objective is to accelerate the development and fielding of next-generation metrology solutions that are traceable to the International SI and can provide trusted measurement verification for the performance, testing, maintenance, and repair of advanced Navy and Marine Corps systems.
Research, development, and application of manufacturing techniques for the rapid prototyping of interface gages. This includes the exploration and implementation of machining, precision grinding, painting, and special coating processes. The focus is on reducing lead times and costs while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and durability for custom gaging solutions used in naval applications.
Modernization of calibration standards to address obsolescence, poor reliability, high cost of operation, or new measurement requirements. Improvements to the standards may include the addition of measurement parameters, increased range (high or low), decreased uncertainty, ease of operation, better safety, smaller size, reduced weight, increased ruggedness, automation, or other. Efforts will focus on development of new calibration standards or modification of existing calibration standards as needed to meet the Navy’s emerging measurement requirements efficiently, effectively, and at the lowest cost.
Naval installations require resilient, secure, and efficient energy solutions to sustain mission-critical operations and reduce vulnerabilities associated with aging infrastructure and external power dependencies. This technology area seeks innovative capabilities in power generation, high-capacity energy storage, microgrid development, and intelligent energy distribution systems that enhance installation resilience and energy security. Solutions of interest include renewable and alternative energy technologies, advanced battery and energy storage systems, island-able microgrids, smart grid applications, and predictive energy management tools that optimize consumption, improve reliability, and ensure operational continuity during utility disruptions, contingency operations, or other adverse events.
Research, development, demonstration, test, and evaluation of tools, techniques, procedures, and processes that expand the state of the art in enterprise logistics, IT operations management, and comprehensive lifecycle management. This includes the design, integration, and implementation of intelligent platforms for material procurement, supply chain resilience, automated inventory management, and holistic property management across distributed and tactical naval environments. Key focus areas include modernizing IT Asset Management to optimize hardware and software resource allocation, and advancing configuration management to establish, track, and maintain strict system baselines from acquisition through disposal. Research and prototyping efforts may encompass leveraging predictive data models for proactive logistics, condition-based sustainment, digital tracking of physical and digital assets, automated audit readiness, as well as developing data visualization and analytics solutions that consolidate property and logistics data across multiple enterprise systems.
Modern naval installations require integrated planning methodologies that align infrastructure investments with evolving mission requirements and emerging operational capabilities. This technology area seeks innovative enterprise architecture approaches, digital engineering methodologies, and decision-support tools that optimize base operations, improve interoperability, and maximize utilization of facilities and support assets. Areas of interest include digital twins, modeling and simulation capabilities, space optimization tools, and data-driven frameworks that support infrastructure planning, mission integration, investment prioritization, and informed operational decision-making.
Naval installations require enhanced situational awareness, advanced analytical tools, and innovative modernization approaches to optimize facility sustainment, extend service life, and strengthen resilience against operational, environmental, and cyber threats. This technology area seeks smart, connected solutions that leverage the IoT, automated sensors, artificial intelligence, and digital engineering to enable predictive maintenance, real-time condition monitoring, and adaptive asset management. By integrating advanced sensing with decision-support systems, this area aims to reduce operating and sustainment costs, prevent catastrophic infrastructure failures, and ensure facilities remain mission-ready throughout their operational lifespan.
To accelerate construction timelines and improve structural durability by rapidly designing, building, and upgrading infrastructure capable of withstanding kinetic, cyber, and environmental threats. This area envelopes the integration of novel building materials (e.g., ultra-high-performance concrete, advanced polymers), 3D printing of infrastructure components, and modular/pre-fabricated construction techniques to support rapid deployment and flexible facility expansion in contested or remote environments. This area also includes extending the lifecycle of existing assets while implementing next-generation civil engineering practices to ensure facilities remain highly survivable, adaptable, and mission-ready will.
Development of new, or modification of existing, high-precision environmental control systems for laboratories and operational environments that can reliably maintain temperature and humidity values within extremely tight tolerances. The goal is to maintain stringent environmental conditions for precision measurement and calibration laboratories in a manner that increases the environmental control capabilities and improves environmental control system efficiency and reliability to better support Navy and Marine Corps test equipment and gages.
Procedures, methodologies, and technologies to support the safe warehousing, preservation, and retrieval of special interface gages, precision measurement equipment, and calibration standards. This includes the development of controlled, sheltered environments to protect sensitive instrumentation from environmental degradation and physical damage. Efforts will focus on establishing optimized storage configurations, integrated inventory tracking, environmental monitoring, and the prototyping of secure, access-controlled storage spaces compliant with DoD standards for housing classified assets. This prototyping effort will address all necessary physical, network, and access control security measures to serve as a model for future secure facilities. The primary goal is to ensure equipment remains in a ready-for-issue status, minimizing deployment lead times and maintaining operational availability across the enterprise.
Procedures, rigging methodologies, and engineering controls for the safe movement and transfer of large, heavy, and complex precision measuring equipment for transition to and from precision laboratories and operational environments. This area focuses on addressing the high-risk physical transitions through narrow entryways, structural thresholds, and non-controlled buffer zones to prevent physical strain, mechanical shock, and sudden environmental exposure to sensitive components (such as Coordinate Measuring Machines, large interface gages, and optical tables). Efforts will focus on procedures utilizing specialized, non-marring rigging equipment, vibration-damping transport dollies, and temporary clean-room or thermal buffering enclosures during the physical transit process. The primary objective is to maintain structural alignment, protect delicate internal mechanisms from mechanical shock, and minimize the stabilization and environmental acclimatization time required before the equipment can be returned to service.
Design and fabrication of custom shipping crates and all associated materials required to safely enclose, protect, and transport a variety of Government-furnished and Performer-furnished items including Navy Special Purpose Interface Gages, precision test equipment, and missile reentry body systems and subsystems. Crating solutions shall be constructed primarily of wood (including boxes, framing, skids, and bracing) and shall incorporate all necessary internal blocking, bracing, cushioning, dunnage, fasteners, hardware, moisture barriers, desiccants, and protective materials appropriate to the item being enclosed. Each crating solution shall be engineered to accommodate the specific dimensions, weight, fragility, sensitivity, and handling requirements of the designated end item.
Naval installations require innovative, scalable approaches to mitigate environmental and health hazards while maintaining mission readiness and regulatory compliance. This technology area seeks sustainable practices, advanced remediation technologies, and environmentally responsible disposal methods that enable the rapid cleanup of contaminated sites, reduce lifecycle costs, and support property restoration efforts. Solutions of interest include accelerated remediation techniques for contaminated soil and groundwater, sustainable waste treatment and disposal methods, environmental monitoring and assessment tools, and restoration approaches that enhance compliance and long-term resilience while minimizing disruption to mission execution.
