Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO), established in 1962, is a pivotal component of the U.S. Navy's oceanographic and hydrographic operations. Located at the John C. Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, NAVOCEANO employs approximately 1,000 civilian, military, and contract personnel. Its primary mission is to provide comprehensive oceanographic products and services to all elements within the Department of Defense (DoD).

Mission and Vision

Mission: To leverage expert knowledge in oceanography, hydrography, and bathymetry to deliver strategic advantages to the Fleet, ensuring access, decision superiority, maneuverability, and enhanced lethality of naval combat power, thereby advancing global maritime security and operational excellence.

Vision: To be the leading authority in oceanographic innovation and expertise, transforming the understanding of the environment to drive unparalleled effectiveness in maritime warfare.

Industry Significance

NAVOCEANO plays a critical role in enhancing the U.S. Navy's operational capabilities by providing essential oceanographic data that informs navigation, mission planning, and the development of weapon and sensor systems. Its contributions are vital for maintaining maritime superiority and ensuring the safety and effectiveness of naval operations worldwide.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Modernize the Force: Maximizing the advantage through the integration of advanced oceanographic data and technologies.

Control the Seas: Achieving decision superiority by providing accurate and timely oceanographic information.

Strengthen Alliances: Building strategic partnerships to enhance global maritime security.

Innovate Relentlessly: Revolutionizing oceanographic research and applications to maintain a competitive edge.

Areas of Specialization

NAVOCEANO specializes in multidisciplinary oceanographic surveys, including physical, chemical, and biological oceanography, marine geology and geophysics, and marine acoustics. It also focuses on hydrography, bathymetry, and geophysical data collection and analysis.

Key Technologies Utilized

Oceanographic Survey Ships: Equipped with advanced sonar systems, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and other specialized instruments for comprehensive data collection.

Satellite Remote Sensing: Utilizing high-resolution visual, infrared, and microwave satellite imagery for global ocean monitoring.

Unmanned Systems: Deploying autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and profiling floats for in-situ data collection in various oceanographic studies.

Primary Markets and Conditions Targeted

NAVOCEANO's services are primarily targeted at the U.S. Navy and other DoD entities, providing critical oceanographic data to support naval operations, weapon system development, and strategic planning. Additionally, it collaborates with international partners and academic institutions to advance global oceanographic research and applications.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As a government entity, NAVOCEANO's funding is allocated through the U.S. Department of Defense budget, with specific allocations for oceanographic research and operations. Detailed financial figures are not publicly disclosed.

Recent Funding Initiatives

In 2012, the Office of Naval Research (ONR) awarded $70 million to begin the construction of two new oceanographic research vessels, AGOR 27 and AGOR 28, to enhance NAVOCEANO's research capabilities.

Utilization of Capital

The allocated funds are utilized for the construction and maintenance of oceanographic research vessels, acquisition of advanced survey equipment, development of data processing and analysis systems, and support for personnel training and development.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

NAVOCEANO's pipeline development focuses on the integration of new oceanographic research vessels and the enhancement of existing survey capabilities.

Stages of Development

AGOR 27 and AGOR 28: These vessels are in the construction phase, with delivery expected in late 2014 and early 2015, respectively.

Target Conditions

The new vessels aim to improve the collection of oceanographic data in both deep and shallow water environments, supporting a wide range of research objectives.

Anticipated Milestones

Delivery of Vessels: Scheduled for late 2014 and early 2015.

Operational Deployment: Following delivery, the vessels will be integrated into NAVOCEANO's research operations.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

NAVOCEANO employs a range of proprietary technologies, including advanced sonar systems, ROVs, and specialized data processing software, to collect and analyze oceanographic data.

Significant Scientific Methods

Multidisciplinary Ocean Surveys: Conducting comprehensive surveys that integrate physical, chemical, and biological oceanographic data.

Marine Acoustics: Utilizing acoustic methods to study underwater environments and support naval operations.

Geophysical Surveys: Employing techniques such as magnetic and gravity surveys to map the ocean floor and assess geological features.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

Rear Admiral Ron Piret: Commanding Officer. Leads NAVOCEANO, overseeing all oceanographic operations and strategic initiatives.

Captain Ivo Prikasky: Executive Officer. Assists in the management of daily operations and ensures the effective implementation of NAVOCEANO's mission.

Rodney "Wade" Ladner: Technical Director. Provides technical oversight, ensuring the integration of advanced technologies and methodologies in NAVOCEANO's research efforts.

AGCM Chad Goff: Senior Enlisted Advisor. Serves as the senior enlisted advisor, offering guidance and support to enlisted personnel within NAVOCEANO.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for oceanographic research and services is characterized by a growing demand for accurate and timely oceanographic data to support naval operations, environmental monitoring, and scientific research. Advancements in technology and increased collaboration between military and civilian entities are driving innovation and efficiency in this sector.

Competitor Analysis

As a government entity, NAVOCEANO does not have direct commercial competitors. However, it collaborates with various academic institutions, private companies, and international organizations in oceanographic research and data collection.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

NAVOCEANO engages in partnerships with academic institutions such as the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography to operate and maintain oceanographic research vessels.

Operational Insights

NAVOCEANO's unique position within the DoD allows it to integrate military requirements with scientific research, providing a comprehensive approach to oceanographic data collection and analysis. Its global operational reach and advanced technological capabilities distinguish it from other entities in the field.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

NAVOCEANO continues to modernize its fleet and integrate advanced technologies to enhance its oceanographic research capabilities. Future initiatives include the deployment of new research vessels, expansion of unmanned systems, and the development of advanced data processing and analysis tools.

Opportunities for Expansion

There are opportunities to expand collaborations with international partners, leverage emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning for data analysis, and enhance the integration of oceanographic data into naval operational planning.

Future Objectives

NAVOCEANO aims to maintain its position as a leader in oceanographic research, continually advancing its capabilities to support the evolving needs of the U.S. Navy and global maritime security.

Contact Information

Official Website

NAVOCEANO maintains an official online presence and active social media profiles to disseminate information and updates.

Social Media Profiles