Lab Narratives
These in-depth stories were developed to raise awareness about the importance of Defense laboratories, engineering centers, and warfare centers as unique catalysts for innovation as well as showcase the critical work they perform. By sharing stories about the people and institutions behind science and technology, DoD STEM aims to increase interest in STEM careers.
The DoD labs are the foundation for research to support our nation’s defense. Since the earliest days in our history, private industry has built upon knowledge discovered by DoD and developed tools and conveniences for everyday use.
DoD STEM scientists and engineers are people who love problems – a good fit because the DoD labs have some of the most challenging problems out there. DoD STEM scientists and engineers are given the latitude and the responsibility to try to answer them.
The Deadliest Truck You'll Ever Meet
This is the story of an AFRL team that worked tirelessly for three years on a secret program to defeat the threat posed by improvised explosive devices. An estimated two-thirds of all American casualties in Iraq and Afghanistan were caused by roadside bombs, according to the Department of Defense. By 2012, the team finally found the key to disabling IED’s before they could detonate and kill or maim anyone: high-powered microwave technology. They called the weapon they built to harness this power MAX POWER, and it was an IED killing machine.
