Strategy and Analysis
Dedicated to the defense of the nation
Since our founding in 1942, Johns Hopkins APL has proudly served a special role for the United States as a cornerstone research and analysis institution for some of our most critical defense technologies.
As threats to our national security have emerged, evolved, and even sometimes resurfaced after years of dormancy, our methods to counter these pressing threats have also changed, no matter the operational environment. To meet these changing challenges, we call upon our deep expertise in a number of technical domains, both cutting edge and foundational, across the Lab.
Additionally, our rigorous, technically informed analysis shapes technology and national security investments, and enables senior government leaders to respond to current and emerging threats.
Related Projects
Better Options for Data Analytics
The open-architecture tool we developed for U.S. Special Operations Command’s Science and Technology Directorate limits dependence on a single vendor and enables the command to evaluate data analysis and visualization tools against defined data and interfaces.
Countering Anti-Access, Area-Denial Threats
APL is an established, critical partner of the Office of the Secretary of Defense Strategic Capabilities Office, which provides lower-cost, strategic alternatives for shaping and countering emerging threats.
Deployed with the Fleet
In 2017, APL staff members deployed on U.S. Navy Commander, Task Force 70 (CTF-70) patrols aboard the carrier USS Ronald Reagan—an assignment that allowed our engineers to experience the fleet’s challenges and operational workflows, and gather important data to feed future analyses and technology demonstrations in operationally relevant environments.
Engaging Senior Decision-Makers
APL partnered with the undersecretary of defense for acquisition, technology and logistics to design and execute a space wargame based on a rigorous analytical framework.
Ensuring Resilient Enabling Capabilities in Denied Environments
On behalf of the Office of the Secretary of Defense, APL is merging technical capabilities with acquisition strategy to mitigate adversary threats to command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) in the maritime, terrestrial, air, space, and cyber domains.
GenWar Sim
Integrating large language models with AFSIM—making high-fidelity simulations accessible to users through natural language interaction
Modeling Warfighter Decision-Making
Working with technical consultants and the Navy fighter aircraft community, we created a pilot-behavior model for air-to-air combat.
Shaping the Joint Future Operating Environment
On behalf of the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, APL led development of the Joint Future Operating Environment, which lays the foundation for force development across the services.
Space Security and Defense
APL provides expertise to the Space Security and Defense program, a joint Department of Defense/Office of the Director of National Intelligence organization focused on creating a more resilient and enduring national security space capability.
Submarine Survivability Program
The SSN/SSGN survivability program ensures our submarines stay hidden regardless of new technology, changing mission requirements, and increasingly sophisticated adversaries.
Related News
Press Release
Dec 16, 2025
Chen Named National Security Analysis Department Head at Johns Hopkins APL
APL has named Yu-Han “Hugh” Chen as head of the National Security Analysis Department (NSAD). Chen, who previously served as the department’s chief analyst, will lead APL’s work providing integrated technical and operational analysis to inform national security decisions.
News
Oct 30, 2025
Johns Hopkins APL Establishes AI Wargaming Lab to Boost Strategic National Security Analysis and Planning
APL is fusing its analytic and cutting-edge AI capabilities into a forward-leaning incubator, known as GenWar Lab, that leverages advanced AI and large language model capabilities to support the wargames and tabletop exercises that enable military decision-makers to explore dynamic and wide-ranging mission scenarios.
Press Release
Sep 8, 2025
Mara Named Head of Force Projection Sector at Johns Hopkins APL
Andrew Mara has been named head of the Force Projection Sector at APL. Mara joined APL in 2023 as the head of the National Security Analysis Department, where he led the development of advanced technical capabilities to enable high-impact analyses of strategic challenges.
Press Release
Sep 4, 2025
Thompson Named Mission Area Executive for National Security Analysis at Johns Hopkins APL
Angela Thompson has been appointed National Security Analysis mission area executive at APL. Since joining the Lab in 2007, she has served in key leadership roles guiding programs that advance U.S. national security.
Press Release
Sep 2, 2025
37th Annual Submarine Technology Symposium Advances Undersea Collaboration and Innovation
More than 600 participants from across the submarine force, allied nations, industry and academia gathered at Johns Hopkins APL for the 37th Submarine Technology Symposium. The symposium provided a forum for technical exchange and discussion under the theme “Lethality Today and Innovation for Tomorrow.”