The United States military is an entity that is as much about strategy as it is about innovation, and research plays an important role in its operations. It is therefore only fitting that there is an office within the military that focuses on technology, research, and innovation, such as the Office of Naval Research.

The Office of Naval Research (ONR) s an executive branch agency in the Department of Defense. It functions in support of the budget of the President, and provides technical advice to the Chief of Naval Operations, as well as the Secretary of the Navy.

ONR reports to the Secretary of the Navy, through the Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development, and Acquisition. It is involved in coordination, execution, and promotion of the United States Navy and Marine Corps’ science and technology programs, through schools, universities, and government laboratories, as well as for-profit and non-profit organizations.

It was authorized by an Act of Congress and received approval from then-President Harry S. Truman, on August 1, 1946. It provides funds, through grants and contracts, for scientists, technologists, and engineers, as they engage in research, technology development, and advanced technology demonstrations.

The Office of Naval Research has six science and technology departments that provide funding for basic research programs, technology research programs, and advanced technology demonstration programs.

Currently leading the Office of Naval Research as chief of naval research is Rear Adm. Nevin Carr. Rear Adm. Carr has announced, however, that a new chief – Read Adm. Matthew Klunder – is set to assume his role, in a change of command that will occur on November 17.