Systems Engineering
Foundational expertise in systems engineering
Johns Hopkins APL has been developing systems since day one, and our world-class expertise in systems engineering is applied to solve problems that are more complex and difficult than other organizations can address.
Since our founding in 1942, we have made critical contributions to critical challenges across a broad range of technical areas and systems. These accomplishments are based on our application of systems engineering principles and practices, tightly coupled with broad domain knowledge in the operational environments of these systems.
From developing systems in extreme environments to applying systems engineering principles to fields such as health care and artificial intelligence, we take on the role of problem solver for the nation’s most critical challenges.
Related Projects
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![The twin CubeSat Assessment and Test, or CAT, satellites shown before launch at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory.]()
Learn more about CubeSat Signal Preprocessor Assessment and Test (CAT)CubeSat Signal Preprocessor Assessment and Test (CAT)
APL has successfully established communications with two miniaturized satellites, or CubeSats, as part of a Lab-led flight demonstration known as CAT. -
![APL is using the commercially developed Wave Glider to demonstrate how quickly the Navy can field new sensor systems]()
Learn more about Wave Glider DemonstrationWave Glider Demonstration
For the first time, we used the commercially developed Wave Glider to demonstrate how quickly the Navy can field new sensor systems. -
![Artist's rendering of the Ground-Based Strategic Deterrent (Credit: (U.S. Air Force)]()
Learn more about Ground-Based Strategic DeterrentGround-Based Strategic Deterrent
APL has a significant evaluation role in the Air Force program to replace the aging Minuteman III system. -
![Closeup of person's hands at keyboard and using CAD tool (Credit: Bigstock)]()
Learn more about Rapid PrototypingRapid Prototyping
We improved on training aids by rapidly and cost-effectively prototyping an interactive pressurization valve for missile tube launcher training. -
![An unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile launches during an operational test Sept. 5, 2016, at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. (U.S. Air Force photo/Michael Peterson)]()
Learn more about Dynamic SimulationDynamic Simulation
With the clock ticking down to the first Minuteman III test flight to feature a miniature analog translator (MAT)—developed and built by APL to replace the obsolete full signal translator (FST) used for real-time range tracking and GPS signal data on prior test flights—qualification tests identified a need to change a configuration file in the MAT ground equipment. -
![Abstract representation of data analysis (Credit: Bigstock)]()
Learn more about Better Options for Data AnalyticsBetter 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. -
![Sonar screen (Credit: Bigstock)]()
Learn more about Integrated Undersea Surveillance SystemsIntegrated Undersea Surveillance Systems
We are solving critical challenges for the Navy’s undersea surveillance community, making contributions such as active and passive sonar processing algorithms for inclusion in the Advanced Surveillance Build tactical sonar modernization program. -
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Learn more about Submarine Survivability ProgramSubmarine Survivability Program
The SSN/SSGN survivability program ensures our submarines stay hidden regardless of new technology, changing mission requirements, and increasingly sophisticated adversaries. -
![Planes in flight (Credit: U.S. Navy/Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joseph E. Montemarano)]()
Learn more about Modeling Warfighter Decision-MakingModeling Warfighter Decision-Making
Working with technical consultants and the Navy fighter aircraft community, we created a pilot-behavior model for air-to-air combat. -
![M1200 Armored Knight (Credit: U.S. Army/Sgt. Richard Daniels Jr.)]()
Learn more about Precision TargetingPrecision Targeting
Working to ensure that ground forces can rapidly and accurately provide GPS locations of battlefield targets, APL performed design analyses and developed procedures that resulted in the successful testing of the Joint Effects Targeting System (JETS) and improvements to the system’s precision geolocation capability. -
![USS Ronald Reagan (Credit: US Navy / Jason Tarleton)]()
Learn more about Deployed with the FleetDeployed 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. -
![Aircraft in flight (Credit: U.S. Navy)]()
Learn more about Next Generation JammerNext Generation Jammer
Strongly leveraging APL’s technical expertise, the Navy’s Next Generation Jammer (NGJ) Mid-Band (Increment 1) program entered the engineering and manufacturing development phase. -
![Health systems]()
Learn more about The Systems Approach to Saving LivesThe Systems Approach to Saving Lives
APL’s thought leaders are stirring discussions on the importance of taking a systems approach to health care. -
![Helicopter (Credit: U.S. Marine Corps)]()
Learn more about Senior Leader Helicopter CommunicationsSenior Leader Helicopter Communications
APL is working with the Navy to enhance communications on the senior leader helicopter fleet. -
![Radar screen (Credit: Bigstock)]()
Learn more about Testing Air and Missile Defense RadarTesting Air and Missile Defense Radar
APL teamed with industry and the Above Water Sensors Directorate of Program Executive Office Integrated Warfare Systems on two successful tests of the AN/SPY-6(V), a wideband digital beam-forming sensor known as the Air and Missile Defense Radar.
Related News
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![A medium range ballistic missile target is launched from Makaha Ridge, part of the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) in Kauai, Hawaii, during FTM-31 E1a]()
Learn more about Johns Hopkins APL Provides Critical Contributions to Successful Ballistic Missile Intercept TestNews
Sep 14, 2023Johns Hopkins APL Provides Critical Contributions to Successful Ballistic Missile Intercept Test
APL — in cooperation with the U.S. Missile Defense Agency and the U.S. Navy — demonstrated the capability to detect, track, engage and intercept a medium-range ballistic missile target in the terminal phase of flight. -
![Rear Admiral Goggins and staff members from APL]()
Learn more about Navy Recognizes Critical Contributions of Johns Hopkins APL TeamPress Release
Aug 14, 2023Navy Recognizes Critical Contributions of Johns Hopkins APL Team
Prior to his retirement, APL welcomed the former Direct Reporting Program Manager, AUKUS Integration and Acquisition Office Rear Admiral David Goggins (USN ret.) on June 29 for a visit to recognize the contributions of APL staff members to developing and successfully fielding new technological advances that bolster our nation’s undersea capabilities. -
![Aerial view of Johns Hopkins APL's campus]()
Learn more about Strategy-Driven Innovation: Johns Hopkins APL Authors Examine Lab’s Integrated Systems ApproachPress Release
Jul 25, 2023Strategy-Driven Innovation: Johns Hopkins APL Authors Examine Lab’s Integrated Systems Approach
A comprehensive examination of APL’s integrated approach to strategy is featured in the current issue of the ”IEEE Engineering Management Review,” published by IEEE. -
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Learn more about Johns Hopkins APL Develops Performance Analysis Tool for Uncrewed Surface VehiclesPress Release
May 10, 2023Johns Hopkins APL Develops Performance Analysis Tool for Uncrewed Surface Vehicles
Can autonomous vessels navigate as well as humans? APL researchers are trying to answer that question with the development of standardized navigation and performance evaluation methods for the Department of Defense. -
![SM-3 Block IIA launches from the JS Maya]()
Learn more about Johns Hopkins APL Plays Key Role in Japan Missile Defense Flight Test SuccessPress Release
Apr 24, 2023Johns Hopkins APL Plays Key Role in Japan Missile Defense Flight Test Success
APL — in cooperation with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the United States Missile Defense Agency — played a key role in live-fire intercept demonstrations of the Standard Missile-2 (SM-2) and SM-3 guided missiles.
