Office of Naval Research Showcases Technologies at Sea-Air-Space Expo

By Katherine H. Crawford, Office of Naval Research

Arlington, Va. (NNS) -- The Office of Naval Research (ONR) is displaying some of its newest technologies and programs, including alternative energy initiatives as well as laser and weapon systems, at the 2011 Navy League Sea-Air-Space Exposition, being held April 11-13 at National Harbor, Md.

"This expo is a great opportunity for ONR to connect with multiple stakeholders, including warfighters, industry partners and others who have an impact on what we're working on," said Chief of Naval Research Rear Adm. Nevin Carr. "I strongly encourage our program officers and scientists to support this event and use it as an opportunity to listen and engage with participants."

The largest maritime exposition in the world, Sea-Air-Space Expo features more than 150 defense industry exhibits. ONR will be at Booth No. 201 in the Maritime Energy Pavilion at the Gaylord National Hotel and Convention Center. Exhibiting hours are 9:45 a.m.-5 p.m., April 11; 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., April 12; and 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., April 13.

ONR's displays include:

- Integrated topside -- an integrated, multifunction, multibeam topside aperture construct with a modular, open radio frequency architecture

- Electromagnetic railgun -- a next-generation weapon that uses electricity rather than chemical propellants to launch projectiles in excess of 230 miles

- Remote environmental monitoring unit(s), or REMUS -- a low-cost autonomous underwater vehicle capable of rapid environmental surveys and underwater mine reconnaissance

- Command and control rapid prototyping continuum -- a software application that gathers crucial information about fleet readiness from multiple sources at the same time and compiles it in one location

- Free electron laser -- a highly promising future weapon, which can engage multiple targets, provide counter-surveillance at sea and produce high-resolution imagery.

Additionally, the Naval Research Laboratory will highlight its Tactical Satellite IV next-generation satellite; fuel-cell-powered experimental fuel cell unmanned aerial system; Ion Tiger hydrogen-powered fuel-cell unmanned air vehicle; and coating and corrosion displays.

The event also includes presentations by Secretary of the Navy, Hon. Ray Mabus; Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr.; and Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Research, Development and Acquisition) Sean Stackley; and professional development sessions featuring Vice Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan Greenert.

Founded in 1902, the Navy League of the United States is a civilian organization with more than 50,000 members dedicated to educating American citizens and elected officials about the importance of sea power to U.S. national security. Sea-Air-Space is free to active duty, reserve and retired U.S. military personnel, U.S. government employees, members of Congress and their staffs, invited guests of the Navy League, representatives of exhibiting companies, representatives of foreign embassies and Navy League members. It is not open to the general public.

About the Office of Naval Research

The Department of the Navy's Office of Naval Research (ONR) provides the science and technology necessary to maintain the Navy and Marine Corps' technological advantage. Through its affiliates, ONR is a leader in science and technology with engagement in 50 states, 70 countries, 1,035 institutions of higher learning and 914 industry partners. ONR employs approximately 1,400 people, comprising uniformed, civilian and contract personnel, with additional employees at the Naval Research Lab in Washington, D.C.