Applied Research for the Advancement of S&T Priorities
The Applied Research for the Advancement of Science and Technology (S&T) Priorities program was established to implement Department-wide technology development portfolios and foster tri-Service research areas of common interest within cross-cutting S&T efforts. The program has three investment areas:(1) three-year applied research projects selected by the S&T Executive Committee (EXCOM); (2) two-year technology projects nominated by the S&T Communities of Interest (CoIs) to address technology gaps or opportunities; and (3) technology assessment and study support to the CoIs. The execution of the ARAP Program by the Office of the Secretary of War and the support it provides to the CoIs inspires and ensures joint strategic S&T oversight and multi-Service, multi-agency collaboration and coordination. The Applied Research for the Advancement of Science and Technology (S&T) Priorities (ARAP) Program directly supports the National Defense Strategy and aligns with DoW critical science and technology priorities, strengthening broadly applicable technical capabilities and fostering emerging technologies within the Department of War laboratories to enhance warfighter advantages. By funding foundational enabling technologies, the ARAP Program facilitates the design, development, advancement and transition of early-stage technologies and novel ideas, translating promising research into solutions for critical military needs that directly improve situational awareness through advanced sensors, enhanced lethality with precision weaponry, and more effective communication and coordination. Continuous infusion of new technology ensures our forces maintain a decisive edge and have the flexibility needed to adapt to diverse and rapidly changing operational environments. Furthermore, the ARAP Program fosters increased collaboration and partnership among science and engineering teams of subject matter experts across the DoW enterprise, providing funding to recruit top national talent from universities, and bolsters the in-house scientific and technical research capabilities of DoW laboratories, ultimately accelerating the delivery of advanced capabilities to our warfighters. The ARAP Program funds the activities of the DoW Reliance 21 collaborative framework.
Provide Funding for High-Priority ARAP Projects: • Classical-quantum Hybrid constructs to Advance Weapons Systems (CLAWS) ARAP Project. CLAWS is a tri-service, multi-laboratory effort that will develop and demonstrate novel phenomena such as new phases in 2D materials and heterostructures, and long scale atomic coherence, to create…
Read the FY2027 plan →FY2027 planned work Subject Matter Experts will support the S&T Communities of Interest to develop integrated technology roadmaps, conducting limited technology trade studies, and facilitates coordination with OUSW(R&E) Critical Technology Areas Leaders.
FY2026 to FY2027 change The FY 2027 request maintains investment in COI.
FY2026 plans — current year Subject Matter Experts will support the S&T Communities of Interest to develop integrated technology roadmaps, conducting limited technology trade studies, and facilitates coordination with Office of the Under Secretary of War OUSW(R&E) Critical Technology Areas Leaders.
FY2025 accomplishments Provide funding and subject matter expert to the Communities of Interest, allowing them to refresh existing integrated technology roadmaps, conduct limited technology trade studies and coordinate with OSD Critical Technology Area leaders.