USING PUBLIC COMPETITIONS TO HELP DESIGN MILITARY GROUND VEHICLES: LESSONS LEARNED FROM THE DARPA FANG PROGRAM

In January 2013, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) embarked on a public design competition for a heavy, amphibious infantry fighting vehicle, using new design and simulation tools intended to revolutionize the product development process for future complex defense systems. A $1-million prize was awarded for the winning design, which was ultimately built, tested, and evaluated. This paper will provide an overview of the planning and execution of the FANG Mobility/Drivetrain Challenge, insight into lessons learned for future ground vehicle development, as well as for other programs and organizations that are considering using prize competitions.