On Jun. 12, 2026, the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL), in partnership with the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) and multiple Army and Navy research commands, has advanced a new generation of DNA and RNA sequencing technology designed to quickly identify biological threats in the field.

The effort brings sophisticated laboratory capability into austere environments, giving forward-deployed units the ability to detect and identify harmful pathogens in less than 30 minutes.

“This sequencing technology provides a deeper level of information, beyond what existing rapid diagnostic tests currently provide for many missions,” said NRL Associate Director of Research Dr. Peter Matic, SES. “By characterizing genetic material directly, Far-Forward Advanced Sequencing Technology, or F-FAST, and Far-Forward Biological Sequencing, or FFBS, can confirm results from targeted tests, detect previously unknown threats, and provide critical data for medical and operational decision-making at the point of need.”

The F-FAST program has transitioned to the Capability Program Executive for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (CPE-CBRND) as the FFBS Program of Record for incremental fielding to end users through collaboration with several Department of War partners.

“The NRL Center for Biomolecular Science and Engineering currently maintains a parallel effort to train the Navy microbiology corps on field forward nucleic acid sequencing,” Vora said. “Any officer in the Forward Deployable Preventive Medicine Unit and BDRD system can attend training with NRL subject matter experts. That way, the Navy’s forward laboratory personnel, including officers, hospital corpsmen, and hospitalmen are prepared to utilize the technology they are in the process of embedding in their equipment packages and sustainment plans.”