The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State (ARL, formerly known as Ordnance Research Laboratory) is an institution that conducts collaborative research and academic engagement. It performs scientific exploration, proof of concept experimentation, applied research and development, rapid prototyping, and operational support. The company specializes in communications, information, navigation, fluid dynamics, acoustics, materials and manufacturing, undersea systems, and enterprise operations. ARL serves the defense, national security, economic competitiveness, and quality of life sectors.