The Naval Research Laboratory's (NRL) Marine Meteorology Division (Monterey, CA) conducts a broad spectrum of atmospheric research; from the basic understanding of atmospheric processes to the advanced development of weather prediction systems for operations. The Advanced Development program is highly focused on operational transition, and the research is closely coordinated with resource sponsors, Navy customers, and the national weather prediction community to ensure active collaboration in meeting Navy requirements for environmental weather support. At Marine Meteorology Division, we do not encounter “Valley of Death” very often.

In addition to the unique collocation with the operations agencies, Navy has a unique Administrative Modeling Oversight Panel to ensure the results of the successful advanced development research will be transitioned to operations. In this paper, some unique experiences from the researcher perspective will be presented. Topics include the research planning with user requirements, timely execution of the project, and coordination with the operational agency.