The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) shield was designed
to show the historical origins of the unified laboratory, to
encompass the broad spectrum of missions, and to point towards
the future.
The blue background is symbolic of the United
States Air Force (USAF). The primary mission of the AFRL
is to support the warfighting needs of the USAF and this background
reminds us that we are part of the AF Team.
The 5 stars represent our historical roots in the organizations
from which the AFRL was createdArmstrong Lab, Phillips
Lab, Rome Lab, Wright Lab, and the Air Force Office of Scientific
Researchand which collectively establish the AFRL as a
world leader in all Air Force-relevant technologies. The guiding
star at the top signifies the greatness we can achieve.
In the center of the shield is a craft formed in the shape
of a three-dimensional triangle. The triangular symbol represents
a marriage of aircraft, missile, and spacecraft. The craft is
silver and white in color to give the impression of quick flight
and straightforward in design to highlight the constant and
steady advances enabled by our research and development. The
craft is pointing to the heavens as it rolls back the night.
Thus through research and development, the light of understanding
replaces the darkness of ignorance.
Finally, the shield is simple. The uncluttered nature allows
both AFRL members and outside associates to easily recognize
and remember the shield. Its simplicity also reminds us that
all technologies, capabilities, and systems--no matter how powerful
or complex--started from fundamental research in a laboratory.
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