Activities in support of ONR seabed warfare and autonomous systems efforts

The University System of New Hampshire (operating through the University of New Hampshire Division) received a $700,000 Project Grant from the Office of Naval Research (ONR) under the Basic and Applied Scientific Research program (CFDA 12.300) on December 1, 2025, with a completion date of November 30, 2028. The award supports activities in support of ONR seabed warfare and autonomous systems efforts, aligning with the ONR's mission to discover, develop, and deliver new technology and capability for the Navy and Marine Corps. This three-year project falls within the typical 3–5-year performance period characteristic of ONR awards and will be performed at the awardee's facilities in New Hampshire.

The funding supports basic and applied research addressing naval operational challenges through scientific innovation and technology development. As a research-intensive institution with established expertise in marine science, ocean research, and autonomous systems, the University of New Hampshire is well-positioned to conduct the proposed work. ONR project grants in this portfolio typically advance concrete technical problems relevant to unmanned maritime systems, distributed control systems, sensors, and related engineering disciplines that enhance naval capabilities. This award represents one of multiple ONR-funded efforts at UNH, including the concurrent $6.24 million "Smart Acoustics from Shelf to Shore in the Gulf of Maine" program, demonstrating the institution's continued role as a prime recipient for Navy-relevant research.