AFMCMD420 — Air Force Research Laboratory (afrl)

AFMCMD420 governs the mission, command, and responsibilities of the Air Force Research Laboratory within Air Force Materiel Command.

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  • Publication number: AFMCMD420
  • Title: AIR FORCE RESEARCH LABORATORY (AFRL)
  • Date: 2023-10-23

View AFMCMD420 on armypubs.army.mil


It defines AFRL’s role in developing and integrating warfighting technologies, managing Science and Technology activities, and supporting the Air Force and Space Force. It also sets duties for the AFRL Commander, including talent management, technology transition, technical information protection, and medical training activities.

Applies to: This mission directive applies to AFMC Regular Air Force, AFMC civilian employees, United States Space Force and those with a contractual obligation to abide by the terms of its issuance.

Topics covered

  • Warfighting technology development
  • Science and Technology investment strategy
  • AFRL command relationships
  • Technology transition strategies
  • Critical technical information
  • Aerospace and Operational Medicine training

Questions and answers

What does AFRL lead and develop?

AFRL leads the discovery, development and integration of warfighting technologies for the DAF’s air, space and cyberspace forces; executes the DAF Science and Technology (S&T) budget and orchestrates the investment strategy for DAF S&T activities; and manages external funds received from other government and industry customers. (paragraph 1)

What is AFRL’s relationship to Air Force Materiel Command?

AFRL, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is a Primary Subordinate Unit of AFMC. (paragraph 2)

Who does the AFRL Commander report to as DAF Technology Executive Officer?

The AFRL Commander is dual hatted as the DAF Technology Executive Officer and reports in this capacity to the US Air and Space Service Acquisition Executives. (paragraph 2)

What must the AFRL Commander do to manage AFRL talent?

Organize, train, equip, attract, develop, and retain AFRL talent. (paragraph 3)

How must AFRL develop Science and Technology requirements?

Derive S&T requirements from strategic guidance and refine S&T needs with DAF warfighters; develop the DAF’s S&T investment strategy accordingly. (paragraph 3)

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