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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![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. -
![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. -
![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. -
![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. -
![EMAPS technology allows operators to map areas and confined spaces that GPS cannot "see."]()
Learn more about Enhanced Mapping and Positioning System (EMAPS)Enhanced Mapping and Positioning System (EMAPS)
We continue to strengthen EMAPS, a portable mapping system carried in a backpack, for the Department of Defense’s Chemical and Biological Defense Program. -
![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. -
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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. -
![Erik Johnson, a machine learning researcher at Johns Hopkins APL, demonstrating how agents are evaluated for lifelong learning on ISC-developed L2Explorer.]()
Learn more about Lifelong Learning MachinesLifelong Learning Machines
Enabling intelligent systems that continuously adapt to changing conditions and missions in the real world. -
![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. -
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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. -
![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. -
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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. -
![Neil Fendley, machine learning researcher, demonstrates a backdoor adversarial attack he embedded in a computer vision application.]()
Learn more about Robust and Resilient Artificial IntelligenceRobust and Resilient Artificial Intelligence
Developing intelligent systems for missions characterized by uncertain and adversarial environments. -
![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. -
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Learn more about Space WeatherSpace Weather
APL is a leader in space weather science, observations, and modeling—particularly in understanding the drivers of solar activity, the role Earth’s magnetosphere plays in protecting us, and the response of the upper atmosphere to solar variability.
Related News
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![A Standard Missile-3 Block IIA is launched from the USS McCampbell off the coast of the Pacific Missile Range Facility in Hawaii during FTX-23. (Credit: MDA/U.S. Navy)]()
Learn more about Johns Hopkins APL Plays Pivotal Role in Successful FTX-23 Missile Defense TestPress Release
Apr 9, 2024Johns Hopkins APL Plays Pivotal Role in Successful FTX-23 Missile Defense Test
APL played a pivotal role in a successful demonstration of the Aegis Weapon System’s ability to track and intercept a complex missile target. -
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Learn more about Johns Hopkins APL Marks 15 Impactful Years of Pushing the Boundaries of Missile DesignNews
Feb 12, 2024Johns Hopkins APL Marks 15 Impactful Years of Pushing the Boundaries of Missile Design
For 15 years, APL has been advancing a new paradigm for missile design, known as multidisciplinary design optimization, that overcomes the limitations of traditional processes. Along the way, the Laboratory has developed cutting-edge tools that have supported a wide range of government agencies and advanced the state of the art among industry partners and government sponsors. -
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Learn more about Johns Hopkins APL, University of Colorado Boulder Formalize National Security Research PartnershipPress Release
Dec 13, 2023Johns Hopkins APL, University of Colorado Boulder Formalize National Security Research Partnership
APL and the University of Colorado Boulder have signed a master research agreement that expands their existing partnership and opens new avenues for collaboration to address critical national security objectives and workforce needs. -
![The amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) sails in the Arabian Gulf]()
Learn more about Sailors 3D-Print Critical Component at Sea Using Johns Hopkins APL-Installed Hybrid Manufacturing SystemNews
Nov 13, 2023Sailors 3D-Print Critical Component at Sea Using Johns Hopkins APL-Installed Hybrid Manufacturing System
Sailors aboard the USS Bataan turned the additive manufacturing at sea concept into reality after successfully fabricating and installing a stainless steel sprayer plate to repair the USS Bataan’s ballasting system. The machinists used a hybrid manufacturing system that was developed and installed on the ship with support from APL and Naval Sea Systems Command, allowing the ship to avoid costly repairs and resume operations. -
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Learn more about At Sea, Johns Hopkins APL Engineer Gains Inspiration and Insights for Tech DevelopmentNews
Oct 4, 2023At Sea, Johns Hopkins APL Engineer Gains Inspiration and Insights for Tech Development
Floating in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Sherry Chen looked out over the 1,000-foot deck as two F-18 fighter jets revved for take-off. Over the course of a five-day embarkation on an aircraft carrier, Chen gained valuable insights into the technology she helps develop for Navy sailors.
