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Chief of Naval Research Issues Challenge for Innovation and the Future Force

For Immediate Release: May 31, 2017

ARLINGTON, Va.—The Chief of Naval Research (CNR) has issued a historic call for innovative ideas to support the Navy and Marine Corps of the future.

Leap-ahead technologies and cutting-edge concepts are the focus of the new CNR Concept Challenge, with finalists to be announced at the Naval Future Force S&T Expo, held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C., July 20-21. The Expo is co-sponsored by the American Society of Naval Engineers.

“I am looking for visionary ideas that really get out in front of the rapid, ever-accelerating technology development and deployment cycle,” said Chief of Naval Research Rear Adm. David J. Hahn. “With new advances taking place at breakneck speeds, across multiple domains, the truth is that the ‘Navy and Marine Corps After Next’ is being created right now.”

“I need people to think big, and then imagine even more.”

The concepts in the CNR Challenge need to keep naval ships, aircraft and personnel always at an advantage, and help Sailors and Marines either deter conflict or win decisively and return safely.

“We want our men and women on the front lines to have such a dominant technological edge that potential adversaries don't even try to challenge us,” said Hahn.

All idea submissions will be reviewed by a team of subject matter experts within the Office of Naval Research (ONR). Finalists must be registered for the Expo to be selected and will be announced at the event by the CNR during his opening remarks.

The Expo provides an opportunity for finalists to meet with appropriate ONR subject matter experts and program officers for further exploration of each concept—and potential for follow-on work.

Watch a new video of Rear Adm. Hahn discussing the role of naval research in maintaining America's maritime superiority.

Check Out the 2017 Naval Future Force S&T Expo!

Registration is now open for the 2017 Naval Future Force Science and Technology Expo, co-sponsored by and American Society of Naval Engineers. Scheduled for Jul. 20-21, the Expo is the Navy's premier event to share information; discuss research opportunities; and build science and technology partnerships between the Navy and Marine Corps, industry and academia.

About the Office of Naval Research

The Department of the Navy’s Office of Naval Research 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, 55 countries, 634 institutions of higher learning and nonprofit institutions, and more than 960 industry partners. ONR, through its commands, including headquarters, ONR Global and the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C., employs more than 3,800 people, comprising uniformed, civilian and contract personnel.