Smart acoustics from shelf to shore in the gulf of maine

The University System of New Hampshire received a $6.24 million Project Grant from the Office of Naval Research (ONR) under the Basic and Applied Scientific Research program (CFDA 12.300) for the project titled "Smart Acoustics from Shelf to Shore in the Gulf of Maine." The three-year award, initiated October 1, 2025, and concluding September 30, 2028, supports research and development activities focused on advanced acoustic monitoring and sensing technologies applicable to naval operations in the Gulf of Maine region. The research initiative leverages ONR's mission to discover, develop, and deliver new technology and capability for the Navy and Marine Corps through merit-based, peer-reviewed scientific investigation.

The project encompasses collaborative research partnerships with multiple sub-awardees, including Portland State University (awarded March 5, 2026), The Pennsylvania State University (awarded November 21, 2025), and specialized technical service providers including Jasco Applied Sciences (USA) Inc., Applied Ocean Sciences LLC, and Stony Brook University (all awarded November 2025). These sub-awardees contribute complementary expertise in underwater acoustics, acoustic propagation modeling, marine environmental assessments, ocean observing systems, and sensor technology development. The integrated research effort combines institutional research capabilities with specialized technical services to advance acoustic sensing methodologies and data collection protocols aligned with naval operational requirements in coastal and shelf environments.