Naval Engineering. A National Naval Obligation

Abstract

Abstract : Since its creation by Congress over fifty years ago, the Office of Naval Research (ONR) has been charged with the national responsibility of maintaining a vigorous Science and Technology program in areas that are of critical importance to the maintenance of US naval superiority. ONR accomplishes this mission through research, recruitment and education, maintaining an adequate base of talent, and sustaining critical for research and experimentation. One critical area requiring support by ONR is the infrastructure in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. An innovative knowledge in NA & ME consists of two main element: the knowledge, skills and experience to perform innovative design and engineering applied to in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, and an industry that employs these people and allows this innovative knowledge to be applied in the ships it designs and builds for the Navy. The universities along with industry develop the technology and educate the people who are employed by industry. In turn, the research supported primarily by the government provides direct support for the conduct of research and the education of the future faculty who perform their doctoral research in this discipline. This study examined the current situation in navy related Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. The need for ONR support in this area is identified and recommendations made to establish long term support that will provide for the introduction of innovative technology in naval ships.