United States Marines and government civilians convened at the 2025 Modern Day Marine (MDM) Expo along with academia and key industry partners during the week of April 29 - May 1 in Washington, DC. This annual gathering is used to shape the future of the Marine Corps with an eye toward unveiling innovations in lethalty, warfighting and readiness that support operations in littoral and multi-domain environments. It fostered collaboration and the exchange of information, ideas and initiatives among representatives from across the United States and numerous allied and partner nations.
Drawing significant attendance, the event featured ONR Global TechSolutions showcasing technologies designed to enhance Marine mission readiness and success, with ONR's participation overseen by Chief of Naval Research Rear Adm. Kurt Rothenhaus. During the event, TechSolutions highlighted its approach to enhancing warfighter capabilities through its "Marines Ask, TechSolutions Builds!" program, presented by Mr. Jason Payne, Director of ONR Global TechSolutions Program. Payne explained how Techsolutions rapidly translates innovative ideas and pressing needs into tangible prototypes (typically within 12 months) by directly connecting Sailors and Marines with government science and technology resources.
This process develops prototype solutions based on direct requests from warfighters, leveraging naval laboratories and warfare centers, he said.
Payne also stated that TechSolutions offers effective science and technology solutions that address near-term needs and challenges. He noted this could involve new technology or existing technology used in a new, innovative way, and that the program ultimately gives Sailors and Marines an avenue for sharing their ideas for better systems to make their jobs safer, easier and more effective.
Among the TechSolutions projects showcased at the ONR booths were the Virtual Bridge and Nautical Trainer (VIBRaNT). This trainer garnered significant attention for its functionality, affordability and transportability, offering a realistic and cost-effective training solution. This capability provides Marines with a valuable platform to hone their navigation skills in a virtual environment, better preparing them for real-world challenges at sea.