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 Research
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Maritime Research, Technology, Demonstration, and Deployment
(RTDD)
Facilitating
Transportation Innovation
NNOVATION NEEDS:
New System and Vessel Designs
Aging equipment, changing and expanding global markets,
congestion problems, security needs, and search for competitive edge require vehicle and
transportation systems R&D to explore possibilities.
 High speed vessels and seamless intermodal systems with the
ability to deliver cargo and personnel safely and securely can be an impetus for change
toward more efficient and economical functioning of the U.S. maritime industry. |
Major
R&D Thrust Areas
- High Speed Systems
The nation's economy and security readiness depend on the efficient and quick
movement of people and goods. Overall, the U.S. must have a superior product at a lower
price and with quick delivery. Critical needs include faster vessels, seamless
transition points, and secure delivery.
- Intermodal Systems
Improvements
Projected increase in overseas trade over the
next decade and beyond has led to a focus on shifting the transport of goods from highway
and rail facilities to waterborne alternatives. The volume and the value of cargo
delivered to ports are directly affected by the types of services available, including
accessibility to destination markets. Often ports are not able to adapt due to the
difficulties in financing and implementing the required investment that goes into
retrofitting or expanding so that cargo can easily be transferred from different transport
modes. New mechanisms are needed to accommodate the changing system requirements.
Other Supporting Developments and Useful
Background Information
- Innovative Tanker Designs
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