Company Profile: Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)
Overview
The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is the principal research and development center for the U.S. Air Force, operating under the Air Force Materiel Command. AFRL's responsibilities encompass leading the discovery, development, and integration of innovative and affordable technologies for air, space, and cyberspace operations. The laboratory's strategic operations are headquartered at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, with additional locations across the United States. AFRL administers a $7 billion investment portfolio and employs around 12,500 personnel working across nine technology areas and global operations to forward its mission.
Mission and Vision
AFRL's mission is to lead the discovery, development, and integration of pioneering warfighting technologies across air, space, and cyber domains. Its vision is dedicated to protecting America by harnessing and fostering innovative air, space, and cyberspace technologies.
Leadership Team
- Brigadier General Jason E. Bartolomei: Commander of AFRL, directing operations from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
- Timothy Sakulich: Executive Director overseeing a $3 billion science and technology program and an additional $3 billion in externally funded research. His leadership extends across technical, management, and operational dimensions within AFRL.
- Dr. Timothy J. Bunning: As Chief Technology Officer, he steers the laboratory's technological strategies, maintaining AFRL's edge in innovative technological solutions.
Financial Highlights and Recent Achievements
In Fiscal Year 2023, AFRL reached unprecedented small business award levels, processing $546 million, or 11.72% of its total awards to small businesses, reflecting its commitment to fostering strong industry partnerships. Furthermore, AFRL celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Department of Defense's STARBASE program, successfully supporting over 47,000 STEM students. Recent advancements include creating a new mobile app for efficient airfield assessments and enhancing its relationship with AFWERX to expedite technology delivery across various sectors.
Organizational Structure
AFRL is structured through several functional and technology directorates, each tasked with delivering specialized scientific and supportive services aligned with the laboratory’s research initiatives. Notably, the 711th Human Performance Wing focuses specifically on human effectiveness and performance technologies within AFRL.
Competitive Landscape
AFRL operates amidst a competitive defense and research landscape with notable competitors such as:
- Air Force Life Cycle Management Center: With annual revenues around $75 million and an 8% yearly employee growth.
- U.S. Air Force Institute of Technology: Although not a direct competitor, plays a crucial role in technological advancement.
- Ohio Army National Guard and National Air and Space Intelligence Center: Although engaged in different focuses, provide competition in adjacent domains.
In strategic partnerships, AFRL secured a $24 million contract with BlackSky Technology Inc., reinforcing its competitiveness and active role in defense collaborations.
Competitor Profile: Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)
Financial and Employee Data
AFRL generates approximately $300 million in annual revenue with a workforce of about 4,081 employees. An increase in staff by 2% last year underscores AFRL's growing operational capacity, with the revenue per employee calculated to be around $73,511.
Recent Activities and Initiatives
AFRL persists in pioneering disruptive technologies to confront future military challenges:
- AFRL Commander's Challenge (2024): Illustrating its commitment to innovation through competitive and collaborative efforts with young participants and experienced mentors.
- The Airlift Challenge: An AI-centric competition designed to improve planning algorithms, emphasizing AFRL's investment in advanced computing and AI in military use.
AFRL also extends its reach through initiatives like the AFRL Scholars Program, which serves to enhance capabilities among students in vital fields of research.
Strategic Importance
The strategic location of AFRL at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, along with close collaborations with entities like the National Air and Space Intelligence Center (NASIC) and the Air Force Institute of Technology, provides vital operational insights and testing opportunities. These strategic alliances enhance AFRL's capabilities, ensuring its continual leadership in military technological innovation to address emerging national security threats.
