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Engineering Distributed Aviation Operation (DAO) and Decision Centric Aviation Operations Concepts
Get PDFNPS NRP Executive SummaryThe topic advocate has two concerns, distributed aviation operations (DAO) and decision centric aviation operations (DCAO). The DAO concept intends to maintain operational reach and improved sortie generation while operating from expeditionary advanced bases, where reduced signatures are required and contested logistics are the norm. Current aviation operations (AO) depend on fixed bases augmented by small support areas with limited capabilities. DCAO desires to leverage the information environment in support of faster and improved decision making and increased operational options. Research indicates that DAO will succeed by increasing the capabilities of every operating node, so that air platforms have a range of support options. This implies that each node will need fuel, ordnance, and appropriate aviation support equipment. Maintenance will be enhanced using three new trends: predictive maintenance, tele maintenance, and additive manufacturing. The entire concept is predicated on extensive personnel cross training, with the goal of just a handful of Marines able to support any aircraft at any time. Innovative non-detectable communications will be a key enabler. While DCAO is technically feasible today, much work remains to bridge organizational stovepipes and policies. Developing DCAO through the data, information, knowledge, and understanding (DIKU) paradigm is the foremost finding, treating each layer as a foundation to build the next. Next DCAO must design for various time epochs. Data reliant tools will be different for planning versus fast reaction defensive operations. Research indicates that software agents will be a key component of DCAO solutions. Researchers imagine a planning support agent that will enhance planning options, automate the mundane portions of planning, and expand the mental model of operations for planners. A mission support agent will provide timely alerts and warnings, and standby to generate useful responses to aircrew queries. Modeling and simulation efforts indicate that developing AO and DCAO will be challenging.Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.This research is supported by funding from the Naval Postgraduate School, Naval Research Program (PE0605853N/2098). https://nps.edu/nrpChief of Naval Operations (CNO)HQMC Aviation (AVN
Application of AI for Automatic Aimpoint Selection for HEL
Get PDFNPS NRP Executive SummaryThe objective of this project was to apply artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the reliability and accuracy of autonomous aimpoint selection for high energy laser (HEL) systems. NPS has done considerable work in this area including the development of AI algorithms and target image data as well as testing different target trajectories both by simulation and through experiments. Under this project, research has been performed in four areas:
(1) To quantify model prediction reliability, the Monte Carlo node dropout concept in the AI model was used. It was found that for the target that was not included in training the AI model, the mean error and error variance was significantly higher for different node dropout in comparison to targets included in training the model.
(2) To improve accuracy of aimpoint selection prediction, two AI algorithms, HRNet and Keypoint R-CNN, were compared and evaluated. It was found that HRNet has a pose ambiguity issue resulting in higher prediction error in comparison to Keypoint R-CNN.
(3) The pose ambiguity problem is a major source of error in predicting unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) aimpoint selection. It was found that the predictive estimation filter developed under this project was effective to solve this pose ambiguity problem.
(4) In comparing the accuracy of predicting aimpoint selection when training the AI model using synthetic data instead of real image data, it was found that prediction errors are significantly higher when using synthetic image data. Therefore, real target images should be used for training AI models.
For future research, four areas are recommended: First, evaluate different techniques to quantify the reliability of AI prediction; second, create an image data set for Department of Defense (DoD) UAVs with labeled pose angles; third, evaluate new AI models, including Vision Transformer, for aimpoint selection; and fourth, test the AI algorithms on HEL systems to validate them in real operation.Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.This research is supported by funding from the Naval Postgraduate School, Naval Research Program (PE0605853N/2098). https://nps.edu/nrpChief of Naval Operations (CNO)ASN(RDA) - Research, Development, and Acquisitio
Hybrid PKI Keyloader Methods and Systems
Get PDFA method and system for cryptographically securing communication systems between a plurality of communication devices includes manually providing a pre-shared encryption and/or authentication key via one or more key loader devices to the communication devices; deriving a PKI based protocol derived symmetric encryption and/or authentication key; processing the pre-shared encryption and/or authentication key and the PKI based protocol derived symmetric encryption and/or authentication key to generate a combined encryption and/or authentication key; and using the combined encryption and/or authentication key to encrypt and/or authenticate communications between the plurality of communication device
Global Prepositioning Network (GPN) Supportability Analysis in the Philippines region
Get PDFNPS NRP Executive SummaryThis joint research effort between the Marine Corps Logistics Command (MARCORLOGCOM) and the Naval Postgraduate School examines the development and sustainment of a Global Prepositioning Network (GPN) in alignment with Headquarters Marine Corps (HQMC) directives. Recognizing the strategic importance of forward-positioned logistics, the study analyzes best practices in prepositioning and evaluates their applicability to emerging GPN sites, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. The research identifies key enablers and barriers to long-term site sustainability, with special attention to the unique challenges posed by operational environments in the Philippines and Palau. A major outcome of this study is a decision support matrix designed to guide senior Marine Corps leaders in making data-informed choices as they implement the Commandant's directive to establish three GPN ashore sites in the Indo-Pacific. The study recommends immediate action to formalize GPN as a Program of Record, enabling institutional commitment and Congressional support for long-term success. GPN is deemed essential to enhancing the Marine Corps' readiness, responsiveness, and deterrence posture in the face of near-peer competitors. In parallel, the research underscores the importance of strengthening diplomatic and interagency engagement to ensure host nation support. Strong alliances and mutual commitments are foundational to establishing a sustainable and effective GPN. Senior Marine Corps leadership is advised to work closely with the Departments of State and Defense to secure enduring international partnerships.Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.This research is supported by funding from the Naval Postgraduate School, Naval Research Program (PE0605853N/2098). https://nps.edu/nrpChief of Naval Operations (CNO)HQMC Installations & Logistics (I&L
Naval Warfare Studies Institute
Get PDFIncludes an image of the main page on this date and compressed file containing additional web pages
Naval Postgraduate School Commencement Ceremony / Class of March 2025
Get PDFDate of Commencement ceremony: March 28, 202
IMPROVING RESILIENCY OF OPERATIONAL TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS THAT IMPLEMENT ZERO TRUST PARADIGM
No full textMany operational technology (OT) environments are ill-suited for today's cyber environment; in particular, they lack protection against unexpected cybersecurity threats. This work explores the integration of cyber resiliency (CR) engineering practices described in NIST SP 800-160 Volume 2 and the Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) defined in NIST SP 1800-35B to improve the cyber resiliency of OT systems. The ZT-OT system architecture, previously developed at the Naval Postgraduate School, provides a model for implementing ZTA to support remote access and using personal devices in an OT system. To improve cyber resiliency, we create the ZT-OT2 architecture that combines continuous monitoring and assessment with ZT access control enforcement. Using three real-world use cases, we demonstrate that the ZT-OT2 design can strengthen security and resiliency, reducing the impact of three significant weaknesses in the original ZT-OT design: reliance on vulnerable software agents, a compromised network zone with implicit trust, and logging without ZT protection in the trusted zone. However, despite the ZT-OT2 improvements, challenges such as system complexity and potential single points of failure remain. This research contributes to advancing OT cybersecurity by adapting cyber resiliency principles to industrial environments, offering a resilient framework for securing critical infrastructure.Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.Captain, Republic of Korea Arm
THE EVOLUTION OF U.S. NAVY MARITIME OPERATIONS IN THE PERSIAN GULF
Get PDFThe U.S. Navy has established a template of norms, procedures, and organizations within the Persian Gulf that have stemmed from decades of diplomatic, economic, and defense efforts. The Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz are critical waterways in terms of economic exports that have global economic impact. While the initial economic importance of the Gulf was a critical priority of the United States, the changing global political temperature and regional crises stemming from the Cold War and into the 1970s drove the U.S. Navy to increase presence at sea and ashore. The rise of operations in the region necessitated higher command and control structures specific to the Gulf which later led to the establishment of a Combatant Command and Fleet of its own. The U.S. Navy continues to ensure the freedom of navigation and security of the maritime trade in the region as well as assist regional partners maintain regional stability and security.Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.Lieutenant, United States Nav
