Research Areas

Computational and Informational Sciences Directorate (CISD)
CISD conducts research in a variety of disciplines relevant to achieving and implementing the so-called digital battlefield. Problems address the sensing, distribution, analysis, and display of information in the modern battle space. CISD research focuses on four major areas: communications, atmospheric modeling, battlefield visualization, and computing.

Human Research and Engineering Directorate (HRED)
HRED is ARL’s principal center for research and development directed toward optimizing soldier performance and man-machine interactions. The HRED examines human performance in the perceptual, cognitive, and psychomotor domains in order to increase the body of knowledge of human capabilities and limitations, and to assess the impact of emerging technologies on soldier performance.

Sensors and Electron Devices Directorate (SEDD)
SEDD is the Army’s principal center for research and development in the exploration and exploitation of the electromagnetic spectrum, which includes radio frequency, microwave, millimeter-wave, infrared (IR), visible, and audio regions. SEDD is responsible for advances in laser sources, RF sources, IR sensors, signature detection and decoding, target imaging and its interpretation, fusion of data derived from several sensors, and electromagnetic protection.

Vehicle Technology Directorate (VTD)
VTD is the principal Army organization responsible for the pursuit of mobility-related science and technologies leading to advanced capabilities and improved reliability for Army air and ground vehicles. VTD leads the ARL Major Laboratory Program in mobility and the RDECOM Technology Focus Team in mobility and logistics. The technology focus areas within the ARL and RDECOM programs have been defined as platform, propulsion, intelligent systems and logistics.

Weapons and Materials Research Directorate (WMRD)
The goals of the WMRD are to enhance the lethality and survivability of weapons systems, and to meet the soldier’s technology needs for advanced weaponry and protection.