Pioneering Independent Research and Development Strategy in APL’s Research and Exploratory Development Mission Area: Ensuring our Nation’s Preeminence in the 21st Century

Abstract

The Research and Exploratory Development (RED) Mission Area is the research engine of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL). Its pioneering research, whether internally or externally funded, targets game-changing breakthroughs in national security technologies and capabilities. Through its independent research and development (IRAD) program, the RED Mission Area invests in the early phase of technology development, emphasizing the exploration of bold ideas and the development of advanced prototypes. This article describes the mission area’s IRAD strategy and process and introduces a series of articles featuring a selection of current IRAD initiatives. This groundbreaking research being conducted today will invent the future for APL and its sponsors, ensuring our nation’s preeminence when APL turns 100.