PTThe Paper Trail Project

Defense · Spending

Research & Development

Defense research, development, test, and evaluation funds scientific research, prototypes, engineering, testing, and development before or alongside production and deployment.

How to read this section

  • RDT&E ranges from basic research to operational systems development.
  • Research may be funded through contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, or other transaction agreements.
  • A successful research award does not necessarily become a procurement program.

Primary sources

Research and data resources

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