Autonomy Research Program

This program focuses on the strategic application of automation and autonomous technologies to advance the capabilities of physical, virtual and other systems. Integration of autonomy/autonomous systems with legacy assets and infrastructure is also a key focus. Unique expertise will also include how autonomy may be used by other maritime stakeholders and/or adversaries, how that use will impact the service, and how the service will need to adapt to maintain a competitive edge. The transition goal of this program is to provide clear opportunities for Coast Guard adoption and incorporation of autonomous technology across its operational missions and support functions and how it will interact with autonomy within the Marine Transportation System and the public.

Connectivity Research Program

This program focuses on traditional command, control, communications, computers, cyber and intelligence systems extended to include information technology and networking, mobile device solutions, and data connectivity from all sensors and platforms (manned or unmanned), at any latitude and longitude. Unique expertise will also include next generation remote command and control and bringing data to decision makers wherever they are, enabling tasking to flow automatically to all assets and maintaining consistent and reliable communication pathways.

Data, Modeling and Decision Support Research Program

This program focuses on enhancing Coast Guard effectiveness through the use of data, with research supporting incorporation and development of advanced methodologies and use of emerging data technologies and complex analytics. Research program areas include domain awareness and target of interest identification, artificial intelligence and natural language processing, modeling and simulation and data analytics. Research also supports the investigation of emerging data and decision support tools, technologies and capabilities. The end goal of this program is to provide effective decision-support tools for operators, support personnel and leadership.

Defense and Safety Systems Research Program

This program focuses on ways to ensure the safety of Coast Guard members, the Maritime Transportation System and the public now and into the future. One area of research is defensive systems including non-lethal vessel stopping technologies, counter unmanned systems, cybersecurity and redundancy in operational technology and navigation systems and how they will protect Coast Guard assets from evolving threats. Another area looks into safety systems focused on improvements to mariner safety via bolstered fire protection systems and fire response, enhanced lifesaving equipment and increased probability of successful search and rescue. The program also is assessing modern vessel construction techniques and materials to ensure that the service knows how to regulate, respond to emergencies and utilize advancements in ship design.

Environment and Waterways Research Program

This program focuses on developing methods and technologies to promote Marine Transportation System efficiency, marine environmental protection, safe navigation, safety of life at sea and maritime domain resilience during natural and manmade changes. Changes to be evaluated include increased commercialization of the nearshore and offshore marine zones, increased risks associated with renewable and alternative fuels, larger vessels transporting larger volumes of raw and processed materials, goods and people, competing waterway uses, and the increase of maritime-related activity in what was previously considered the off-season.

Integration, Experimentation and Transition Section

This section supports the execution of all lines of effort within the five research program areas. This includes:

• Test plan development and review
• Field test approvals
• Configuration Control Board, interim authorization to test, authority to operate, National Environmental Policy Act, Investment Review Board and Spectrum
• Field test logistics and request for forces
• Experimentation leads and support staff
• Field unit coordination
• Engineering technician support
• Technical writing support
• Internal quality assurance
• Sponsor/stakeholder engagement

Partnerships are the ultimate force multiplier that complement and expand the Coast Guard’s organic capacity and capabilities. Here are some highlights:

• Air Force Research Laboratory Starlink/Starshield research – Exceptional advances in cutter connectivity; now transitioned across the Coast Guard major cutter fleet. 
• Naval Postgraduate School – Thesis work directly supports seven RDC research efforts.
• Army Combat Capabilities Development Command – Kinetic counter unmanned aircraft system and ground-based unmanned systems (UxS) experimentation. 
• Customs and Border Protection – Integrated into Caribbean Air and Marine Operations center to secure the southern maritime border using RDC UxS capabilities.
• Naval Surface Warfare Center China Lake – Directed energy contactless vessel stopping.
• Evergreen events on deterrence, space and autonomy – Supports and facilitates Cost Guard strategic intent.

RDT&E Fact Sheet

 Capt. Chien – RDC CO

Planning a visit

The RDC is located along the shore of the Thames River adjacent to Coast Guard Station New London in the historic Fort Trumbull area of New London. Near the Coast Guard Academy, Coast Guard Cutter Eagle, the Naval Submarine Base and the future National Coast Guard Museum, the center is located at:

1 Chelsea Street
New London, CT 06320

The RDC is a controlled-access facility. Prior arrangements must be made with an RDC point of contact before access may be granted.

• Visitors are required to check in at the first-floor front desk, located on the river side of the building.
• Visitors will not be admitted without proper photo identification.
• Visits by foreign nationals require special processing. For more information, you may contact the RDC administrator’s office at 860-271-2600.    
• To carry, receive or discuss classified information during a visit to the RDC, contact the RDC security officer at 860-271-2755 or 860-271-2892.