Department of the Navy Programmatic Considerations of Product Support Elements when Employing Hydrogen Fuel to Enable Naval Aviation Capabilities: A PM’s Case Study of a Post-Milestone B System

Abstract

This report explores Department of the Navy (DON) programmatic considerations for integrating hydrogen fuel into naval aviation, focusing on challenges and opportunities in the Operations and Sustainment phase of the acquisition life cycle. Despite advancements in hydrogen-enabled prototypes, a defined sustainment framework is lacking. This research analyzes requirements across the twelve Integrated Product Support (IPS) elements to propose a roadmap for operational implementation. A Group 2 unmanned aircraft system (UAS) and Ground Support Equipment (GSE) Rapid Fielding case study examines critical logistical, maintenance, infrastructure, and training needs—especially those beyond traditional Military Occupational Specialties (MOS)—in shipboard and shore-based environments. Findings highlight major technical, regulatory, and logistical barriers to sustaining hydrogen-powered UAS for dispersed Marine Corps units in expeditionary settings in austere environments. The study concludes that successful integration requires developing comprehensive doctrine, streamlining certification pathways, and investment in expeditionary hydrogen technologies. Recommendations include tailored sustainment strategies, leveraging existing infrastructure, employing advanced storage and generation technologies, and delivering targeted training to enhance readiness, enable sustained operations, and align with the DON’s long-term energy resilience and sustainability goals.