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Programs and Initiatives

NSRD operates four interconnected research programs. Each program oversees a portion of NSRD's research portfolio, managing research projects and ensuring that the division's publications all uphold RAND's standards for quality research.

In addition to its research programs, NSRD organizes special initiatives focused on topics of pressing importance for the defense of the U.S. and its allies.

Research Programs

Acquisition and Technology Policy Program
The Acquisition and Technology Policy Program (ATP) helps ensure that U.S. and allied forces have the materiel they need to accomplish their missions in every warfighting domain: space, air, ground, sea, and cyber.
International Security and Defense Policy Program
The International Security and Defense Policy Program (ISDP) conducts in-depth research that helps U.S. and allied leaders make tough decisions about national and international security.
Navy and Marine Forces Program
The Navy and Marine Forces Program (NMF) helps the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps (USMC), allied maritime and amphibious forces, and other clients manage acquisition, sustainment, personnel, force development, and strategy issues.
Personnel, Readiness, and Health Program
Decades of defense manpower analyses by the Personnel, Readiness, and Health Program (PRH) have helped military leaders manage recruiting and retention crises, the transition to an all-volunteer force, the post–Cold War drawdown, and the post–9/11 buildups.

Special Initiatives