NAVAL AIR WARFARE CENTER WEAPONS DIVISION, CHINA LAKE, California - Dr. Janine Davidson, undersecretary of the Navy, made her first trip to Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division China Lake on July 13.

Hosted by Rear Adm. Brian Corey, NAWCWD commander, and Joan Johnson, NAWCWD executive director, Davidson’s tour primarily took place within the Unmanned Systems Facility and Weapons Integration Laboratory, where she learned about some of the command’s innovative, cutting-edge technologies.

“We are working towards creative ways to get more testing done and we’re making a lot of progress,” Corey said. “Technology is changing rapidly, but our people are adapting very quickly.”

Davidson stood among members of NAWCWD’s workforce to examine various unmanned aircraft systems such as the Scan Eagle and Tiger Shark and gain insight into unmanned systems-capable software such as the Standard Payload Management System and developments within the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. Additional software overviews included the Digital Precision Strike Suite and its flagship product, the Precision Strike Suit for Special Operations Forces, as well as an ongoing solid fuel ramjet project.

“Our goal is to take a Solid Fuel Ramjet from concept to flight within six months,” said Matt Walker, Airbreathing Propulsion Section head.  “This has been made possible through the use of commercial, off the shelf hardware for much of the design.  When complete, we will demonstrate something that not only provides increased capability, but is safe and cost-effective.”

Though her visit was brief, Davidson and those accompanying her gained an appreciation and an understanding of the NAWCWD workforce while receiving potential solutions to Navy issues.

“These guys are really innovative and this is impressive,” said Capt. David McFarland, special assistant to the UNSECNAV, when asked his thoughts. “I just want you to know that you guys are doing great work.”