SEC. 1028.

Arctic-focused forecasting, ice modeling, and naval readiness assessment

DIVISION A · TITLE X: General Provisions · SUBTITLE B: Naval Vessels and Shipyards

Source
SECTION TEXT · SEC. 1028.

(a) Requirements

Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretary of the Navy and the Commander of Fleet Numerical Meteorology and Oceanography Center, shall assess options to expand and enhance Arctic-focused meteorological, oceanographic, and ice-modeling capabilities to improve naval readiness, operational planning, and force posture in the Arctic region. The Secretary shall seek carry out this subsection to—

(1)

strengthen high-resolution Arctic weather forecasting, sea ice analysis, and predictive ice modeling in support of naval and joint operations;

(2)

improve the integration of Arctic weather data into operational decision-making, force employment, and logistics planning;

(3)

support safe navigation, domain awareness, and mission assurance for surface, subsurface, and aviation forces operating in or transiting the Arctic;

(4)

enhance the ability of the Navy to anticipate and adapt to long-term effects from weather affecting Arctic operations; and

(5)

align Department of Defense Arctic capabilities with whole-of-government Arctic strategies and priorities.

(b) Report on effects of extreme weather conditions on naval readiness

(1) In general

Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Navy shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report that includes an assessment of the effects of extreme weather conditions on naval readiness and force posture in the Arctic region.

(2) Contents

Each such report shall include—

(A)

an assessment of observed and projected Arctic weather trends affecting naval and ground operations;

(B)

an identification of the implications of sea ice variability, permafrost degradation, and extreme weather on naval infrastructure, mobility, and sustainment;

(C)

a description of the effects of Arctic weather trends on mission readiness, response timelines, and operational risk;

(D)

an evaluation of how enhanced forecasting and ice-modeling capabilities are being used to mitigate such risks; and

(E)

recommendations for additional capability development, posture adjustments, or policy actions to strengthen Arctic naval readiness.