Thomas Fu Has Been Named Chief of Naval Research

The veteran leader will maintain his dual responsibilities while guiding the organization into its 80th anniversary year.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in People

Isometric editorial illustration of a large steel ship hull section in a dry dock, representing naval research and engineering. — The Office of Naval Research has named Thomas Fu its new chief, tasking him with overseeing the transition of autonomous systems and directed energy weaponry to the fleet. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Thomas Fu has officially taken the helm as the chief of naval research. He continues to serve as the chief scientist and executive director, providing leadership stability as the agency transitions.

Why it matters

The appointment ensures the organization remains a critical bridge between laboratory research and the practical deployment of technology to the fleet.

Thomas Fu brings 40 years of federal civilian service to the role and has authored 140 technical publications. The Office of Naval Research is currently celebrating its 80th anniversary.

The players

Thomas Fu

He is the chief of naval research who began his federal civilian service in 1988.

Rachel Riley

She is the official who transitioned to a new organizational role as part of the leadership update.

The details

Fu now oversees research across the Office of Naval Research headquarters, ONR Global, and the Naval Research Laboratory. He is expected to focus his leadership on transitioning autonomous systems, directed energy weapons, advanced sensors, and combat systems to U.S. forces.

1988: Thomas Fu began his federal civilian service career.
2015: Thomas Fu entered the Senior Executive Service.
2026: The Office of Naval Research marks its 80th anniversary.

Market Landscape

This leadership transition aligns the Office of Naval Research with long-term modernization goals for the U.S. military. The shift allows the organization to maintain continuity in bridging complex laboratory research with urgent combat system deployment.

This appointment signals a focus on the rapid deployment of advanced weapons and sensor systems to the fleet. The changes under Fu's leadership will directly influence how defense contractors and research partners align their development targets with naval requirements.

The takeaway

Thomas Fu will utilize his four decades of experience to bridge the gap between naval research and the requirements of the fleet. The transition is designed to provide organizational stability for future autonomous and combat systems development.