Recapturing Surprise

Much of the asymmetric advantage exploited by U.S. adversaries comes from forces operating under conditions and in environments in which DoD strengths are reduced. Reversing this asymmetry requires that we develop and demonstrate technologies that provide U.S. forces with a complete understanding of the operational environment and developing technologies that allow uninterrupted operations under conditions in which critical capabilities (e.g., space systems, situational awareness, mobility, sustainability) are degraded. The Recapturing Surprise thrust includes techniques to counter emerging threats, such as directed energy, chemical/biological weapons, electromagnetic pulse weapons, and advanced technology proliferation.

This thrust also seeks to create asymmetric advantages for our warfighters through the development of unconventional technologies. Technologies that will allow our forces to operate with impunity will be explored. The use of technologies that capitalize on our historic strengths in stealth, directed energy, novel sustainment technologies, and dominance of the electromagnetic spectrum are of interest, as are new and unexpected ways to exploit the enemy's concepts of operation, social and technological networks, and sustainment.

• Advanced Night Vision System (ANVS)
• Aero-Adaptive/Aero-Optic Beam Control (ABC)
• Bio Demilitarization of Munitions (BDM)
• Center of Excellence for Research in Ocean Sciences (CEROS)
• Counter Sniper (C-Sniper)
• Emissive Micro-Display (EMD)
• High Energy Liquid Laser Area Defense System (HELLADS)
• Persistent Ocean Surveillance Station Keeping (POS-SK)
• Strategically Hardened Facility Defeat (SHFD)
• Structural Logic
• Submersible Aircraft
• Tango Bravo
• Thermal Management System (TMS)
• Underwater Express
• Urban Ops Hopper
• Urban Photonic Sandtable Display (UPSD)