An Introduction to the Office of Naval Research and its Activities in Manufacturing and Shipbuilding

The Office of Naval Research (ONR) coordinates, executes, and promotes the science and technology programs of the United States Navy and Marine Corps through universities, govemment laboratories, and nonprofit and for-profit organizations. ONR is active in basic research, applied research, and advanced technology development in a broad range of scientific and technical disciplines. This paper provides an introduction to ONR and to the shipbuilding-related efforts in its Industrial and Corporate Programs Department and International Field Office. ONR's shipbuilding activities focus on improving technology and manufacturing processes while reducing fleet costs. Approaches to the management of technology and innovation in naval shipbuilding are discussed, and opportunities and mechanisms for international collaboration in technical areas of interest to the international shipbuilding community are highlighted.