Navy updates sci-tech priorities

WASHINGTON - The Office of Naval Research has released the latest update to the Naval Science and Technology Strategic Plan. It reflects future naval requirements, including a new emphasis on autonomous systems. "Our superiority at sea demands that we maintain superiority in science, engineering and technology," said Sean J. Stackley, assistant secretary of the Navy for research, development and acquisition. Key areas of difference between the 2011 biannual plan and the 2009 version include a new emphasis on accelerating insertion of mature technologies to the fleet and consolidating 13 “S&T Focus Areas” into nine, including the new category of Autonomy and Unmanned Systems. It also places an emphasis on science, technology, engineering and mathematics initiatives aimed at increasing the talent pool of future naval scientists and engineers. ONR provides the science and technology necessary to maintain the Navy and Marine Corps' technological advantage. (Source: NNS, 11/17/11) Gulf Coast note: The region is involved in unmanned systems and is also home to a Naval Research Lab detachment at Stennis Space Center, Miss.