Defense Research Sciences

The Defense Research Sciences program, managed by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), aims to enhance national security by exploring new scientific phenomena. This initiative supports basic research across various domains, including information, electronic, mathematical, computer, and materials sciences. The program's objectives include fostering innovation and ensuring the transition of DARPA-funded technologies into practical applications that bolster U.S. defense capabilities.

The Math and Computer Sciences project focuses on developing new mathematical and computational algorithms to support long-term national security goals. It leverages emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, quantum science, and data science to address modern threats in the cyber and information domains. The project seeks breakthroughs that will enable advanced capabilities for national and homeland security.

In electronic sciences, the program explores electronic and optoelectronic devices to meet military needs for real-time information processing. This includes advancing microelectronics innovation to provide improved or revolutionary device options for military systems. Research areas cover analog and photonic circuitry, alternative computer architectures, and magnetic components aimed at reducing electromagnetic system sizes.

The Beyond Scaling Sciences project investigates materials and architectures that offer disruptive improvements in electronics performance beyond traditional transistor scaling. This includes developing circuit specialization techniques, non-volatile memory devices, and automated design tools using machine learning. The goal is to sustain performance improvements as silicon transistor scaling reaches its limits.

The Defense Research Sciences program is dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and technology development in key areas critical to national defense. By supporting basic research initiatives across diverse scientific fields, DARPA aims to ensure that the U.S. maintains a technological edge in addressing current and future defense challenges.