In July 1999, a MFR was signed by Commander, MARCORSYSCOM and the CG, Marine Corps Warfighting Lab (MCWL) that documented the transfer of program management responsibility for the Marine Corps S&T Program to the Office of Naval Research (ONR). Reference (a) explains the intent of the transfer was to gain efficiencies, improve overall S&T effectiveness, and develop a more integrated approach for RDT&E funding within the Department of the Navy. The initial objectives of the transfer have been accomplished. Since the publication of the 19 July 1999 MFR, the Marine Corps S&T Program has grown in scope and funding. Based on the experience gained in three budget and two Program Objective Memorandum cycles, an expanded process is required to ensure that the Marine Corps S&T Program incorporates input from the advocates, reflects Marine Corps requirements, and is properly prioritized, organized, and executed.

Two initial agreements between the Chief of Naval Research (CNR) and the CMC remain in effect. (1) Marine Corps S&T funds will continue to be separately identified from Navy funds and independently described in documentation. (2) Reference (b) remains in effect.

This directive has been transferred from TECOM to CD&I.