General Dynamics

Providing First Technologies in Sensing and Imaging
General Dynamics Michigan Research & Development Center (MRDC) is a leader in technology for the U.S. Department of Defense and national intelligence communities. Throughout its 60 years of operation, the General Dynamics MRDC has provided the world with a number of firsts in reconnaissance and surveillance, including:

First off-axis holographic imaging, now commonly seen on credit cards
First focused Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) which provides all weather, day and night, protective imagery to soldiers in the field today
First spatially-registered airborne multispectral scanner and the first 3D laser scanner, which have brought enhanced color and detail, and height and depth to remotely sensed images used throughout the world
World’s first mobile ground station for commercial satellite imagery, providing the means for customers to access that imagery regardless of location.

Roots in Washtenaw County
General Dynamics MRDC has a long and successful history in Washtenaw County. The origin of what is now the General Dynamics MRDC dates back to 1946, when the Michigan Aeronautical Research Center (MARC) was created as part of the University of Michigan’s Department of Engineering Research.

In 1950, the name was changed to Willow Run Research Center (WRRC) based on the realization that the organization’s expertise was considerably broader than the original name would imply, including an increasing presence in the field of electronics.

After subsequent organization name changes and acquisitions, the organization has evolved into one of the foremost developers of sensor and imaging technologies.

A New State-of-the-Art Facility in Ypsilanti Township
In 2005, the organization relocated to a custom-designed campus in Ypsilanti Township’s Washtenaw Business Park. The move was significant; for the first time the organization was housed in a facility specifically designed and constructed to serve defense and intelligence customers’ missions. Specific upgrades include:

An observatory dome that enables enhanced research with laser, electro-optical, and infrared systems
Indoor and outdoor test ranges which allow for close experimentation in radar and related technologies
Enhanced laboratory space where the development of new sensing modalities, exploitation technologies and operational software occur

The MRDC is one of the few buildings in the world especially designed for the needs of research and development in intelligence, reconnaissance, and surveillance. The facility houses approximately 450 information technology and engineering professionals and administrative staff, two thirds of which have advanced degrees in related sciences.

When selecting the new location, Ypsilanti Township was among 23 sites General Dynamics considered. The final decision was a result of the combination of the total package, which included site suitability, facility lease cost, tax incentives, location and commute, access to local airports and other amenities.

Especially important was maintaining proximity to the University of Michigan and the access to partnership facilities and technical talent. With the continuing support of both the Township and the County, General Dynamics will continue innovating well into the future.

General Dynamics MRDC has a long and successful history in Washtenaw County. The origin of what is now the General Dynamics MRDC dates back to 1946, when the Michigan Aeronautical Research Center (MARC) was created as part of the University of Michigan’s Department of Engineering Research.