As a not-for-profit division of the Johns Hopkins University, APL serves as a technology resource to the Department of Defense and other Government agencies. Our work spans more than 400 programs, conducted for a wide variety of military and civilian sponsors, organized within 11 business areas.

Each business area comprises a set of programs grouped as a unit with common application of resources and management. Many business areas are based on capabilities and expertise supporting long-term programs, such as Air & Missile Defense or Strategic Systems. Some are relatively new or represent a more defined focus, such as National Security Space and Homeland Protection.