
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 healthcare and artificial intelligence, we take on the role of problem solver for the nation’s most critical challenges.
Related Projects
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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. -
Wave Glider Demonstration
For the first time, we used the commercially developed Wave Glider to demonstrate how quickly the Navy can field new sensor systems. -
Ground-Based Strategic Deterrent
APL has a significant evaluation role in the Air Force program to replace the aging Minuteman III system. -
Rapid Prototyping
We improved on training aids by rapidly and cost-effectively prototyping an interactive pressurization valve for missile tube launcher training. -
Dynamic 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. -
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. -
Integrated 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. -
Submarine Survivability Program
The SSN/SSGN survivability program ensures our submarines stay hidden regardless of new technology, changing mission requirements, and increasingly sophisticated adversaries. -
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. -
Precision 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. -
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. -
Next 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. -
The Systems Approach to Saving Lives
APL’s thought leaders are stirring discussions on the importance of taking a systems approach to health care. -
Senior Leader Helicopter Communications
APL is working with the Navy to enhance communications on the senior leader helicopter fleet. -
Testing 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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Press Release
Mar 14, 2023Johns Hopkins APL Installs First Hybrid Metal 3D Printer Onboard a Naval Ship
The installation enables production of mission-critical components while out at sea. -
Press Release
Feb 7, 2023Prototype Planner Offers New Capability for Radar Search Plans
Submitting a Request for Analysis for AN/TPY-2 radar search plans used to be a long process that produced a limited result, but APL has conceptualized a way to transform a static document into a dynamic computer program, known as a planner. -
Press Release
Aug 22, 20222022 Discovery Awards Fund Johns Hopkins APL Projects in Robotics Sensors, Public Health and Food Systems
Four teams featuring APL investigators have earned Johns Hopkins Discovery Awards. Covering work in areas ranging from sustainable materials to social sciences to artificial intelligence, the research awards encourage cross-university collaborations that promise high-quality and impactful results. -
News
Aug 10, 2022Ukraine Crisis Latest Activation for Johns Hopkins APL’s Disaster Response Corps
Through the Disaster Response Corps, APL is bringing its world-class expertise in data analytics, remote sensing, systems engineering and other relevant disciplines to monitor damaged medical infrastructure in Ukraine. -
News
Jul 18, 2022The Human Touch: Johns Hopkins APL Engineers Develop Tech Usability Standards
A new technology’s value depends on whether people can actually use it. APL engineers played key roles in developing a Human Readiness Level scale, designed to indicate a system’s readiness for use by humans.