Strategic approach
Nimble by design, our portfolio includes fixed-term programs as well as challenges, seedlings, explorations, initiatives, and technology transition efforts. Our focus is on high-risk, high-reward R&D to maintain a technological advantage for the United States.
Every program begins by answering eight questions – a rubric known as the Heilmeier Catechism – to determine whether the risk is worth taking.
This approach empowers DARPA to respond to constant change in the national security landscape while simultaneously capitalizing on – and driving – emergent advancements in science and technology.
Scientific exchange and dissemination of research
Consistent with national policy and DOD Directives, DARPA fully supports scientific exchange.
Our fundamental research awards are free from publication restrictions, export controls, and citizenship requirements. We also place no restrictions on unclassified research assigned to subcontractors if the prime contractor and research performer determine the activity to be fundamental research, subject to certification by the contracting component.
Each solicitation and award announcement states explicitly whether the activity constitutes fundamental research.
We do apply restrictions when necessary to safeguard national security, including preventing the disclosure of the performance characteristics of military systems as well as manufacturing technologies that are unique and critical to defense.
ELSI
Ethical, Legal, and Societal Implications (ELSI) of emerging technologies
Our leaders and staff are deeply committed to the responsible development of emerging technologies. With support from our ELSI Visiting Scholar, program managers and research performers actively engage potential end users and the public during the program development process. This helps ensure that all perspectives and implications are considered.
Technical Offices
Our six technical offices put DARPA’s mission into action. Their leaders and program managers plan and execute a constantly evolving portfolio of research programs, challenges, and transition activities.
Featured research
The Heilmeier Catechism
DARPA operates on the principle that generating big rewards requires taking big risks. But how does the Agency determine what risks are worth taking?
End-to-End Business Process Integration Framework
Designed to improve cross-functional DoD processes through BPR, business improvement, and interoperability support.
Contracting Vehicles
DARPA’s CMO can enter and administer contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, and other transactions to fulfill its research and development mission.
Research topics
Explore our recent and ongoing R&D efforts across dozens of topics critical to national security and defense.
The capacity to be modified for a new use or purpose
The capacity to be modified for a new use or purpose
The capacity to be modified for a new use or purpose
The capacity to be modified for a new use or purpose
The capacity to be modified for a new use or purpose
The capacity to be modified for a new use or purpose
The capacity to be modified for a new use or purpose
The capacity to be modified for a new use or purpose
The capacity to be modified for a new use or purpose
The capacity to be modified for a new use or purpose
The capacity to be modified for a new use or purpose
The capacity to be modified for a new use or purpose
Our approach rewards visionary thinking, ambitious risk-taking, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
