Moving optical technology in-house

Abstract

The Navy, through as series of projects and programs, is identifying a considerable number of uses for optical technology. Key commands and Navy projects using optical technology are identified and reviewed. Currently, the Navy has no production capability for this medium nor does an optical production facility exist for classified data. The issue is whether the Navy should develop an optical technology production facility to avoid the use of outside contractors. This research loos as current costs for producing CD-ROM and what cost savings might be incurred through the in-house use of this technology. And if the technology were developed internally, questions such as who should manage this program and how should it be managed need to be addressed. The impact and benefits and barriers to developing an optical technology in-house capability in the Navy are summarized.