A brief description of the CNA Corporation
adapted from the CNA Website and my understanding of this unique Defense Research Institute


The CNA Corporation (CNAC) is a non-profit organization that provides in-depth, independent research and analysis to help decision makers form sound policies, make better informed decisions, and manage programs more effectively. For over 60 years, the CNA Corporation has helped make a difference by working on critical issues facing the nation and the world. The CNA Corporation operates the Center for Naval Analyses (CNA) -- where I will work -- and the Institute for Public Research (IPR) -- the part of the corporation that works with non-military agencies.

The Center for Naval Analyses (CNA) is a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) serving the department of the Navy and other defense agencies. CNA Analysts pioneered the field of military operations research through their work with the Navy during World War II. Today the goal is the same as then: to use scientific techniques to support the effective use of naval forces -- and address other defense concerns.  In peace and war, CNA analysts provide direct support to operating forces. The work includes finding the best ways to employ new weapons and technology and to handle the complex command and control relationships critical to multinational alliances and coalition operations. A key focus is on providing multi-disciplinary support in real time, while working to ensure that lessons learned in the field are used to strengthen the longer-term support provided through other work. This ensures that the policies and systems the military services develop for the future are tempered by an understanding of the complexities of the real world.



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Last Modified on May 12, 2006 by Marco Latini