Advanced Research

Advanced Research under the Missile Defense Agency, aims to conduct leading-edge technology research and development efforts to enable future missile defense capabilities. The program leverages the creativity and innovation of the Nation's universities, small and large businesses, national laboratories, other government agencies, and allied countries to assess and demonstrate the utility of emerging component technologies. It also facilitates the transition of successful technologies to the Missile Defense System through a Commercialization and Transition Office and other MDA programs. The program pursues a broad range of emerging technologies targeted for application into the Missile Defense System, including hypersonic testbed acceleration, sounding rocket testbed technology maturation tests, high-mach system thermal protection, high-temperature nickel-based alloys for hypersonic applications, and laser weapons optics tech risk mitigation.

The Missile Defense Agency's Advanced Technology Development Program pursues advanced technology investments for defense against ballistic and non-ballistic hypersonic threats. It develops breakthrough technology and innovative solutions from private industry, accredited educational institutions, and non-profit organizations. The program assesses and evaluates advanced technology investments to extract risk-reduction information and determine transition feasibility. It also utilizes NanoSat technology demonstrations and sounding rockets to conduct testing and reduce risk for new and advanced technologies for the Missile Defense System. Additionally, it manages the selection process of Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) programs to assist MDA-funded technology developers in finding and entering technology transfer opportunities to missile defense applications. The program aims to enhance Missile Defense System advanced technology initiatives and build stronger relationships with allies and partners through university research opportunities, including those with allied nations.