Advanced Research: Creating U.S. National Security Ecosystems

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is a research and development agency of the U.S. Department of Defense working to develop breakthrough technologies for U.S. national security. The Capstone team considered how DARPA has developed an exceptional risk/reward track record in frontier technologies and what may be needed in contemporary environments to continue to be at the vanguard. The student team considered how the agency has worked to accelerate scientific development, from prototypes to capabilities. Students undertook primary and secondary source research into the competing pressures between those charged with the development of new technologies and those responsible for the consequences of their adoption, financing, and incorporation. At the Capstone’s conclusion, the student team presented their findings to DARPA leadership for consideration.