AFWAL

The Air Force Wright Aeronautical Laboratories (AFWAL) was established in 1974 at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, as part of the Air Force Systems Command. AFWAL consolidated several research and development laboratories, including those focusing on materials, avionics, propulsion, and aeromechanics, to advance cutting-edge aerospace technologies for the United States Air Force. During its existence, AFWAL played a key role in developing innovations for major aircraft and weapon systems, supporting both Cold War needs and long-term technological superiority. In 1990, AFWAL was reorganized and merged into the newly formed Wright Laboratory, which later became part of today's Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL).