Who is ADAC?

ADAC is part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Center of Excellence Network. ADAC was established in 2014 by the DHS Science and Technology Directorate Office of University Programs to research and provide a scientific basis to address the challenges faced by U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and other DHS maritime missions in the Arctic region.

ADAC's principal customer is the USCG. ADAC investigates capability shortfalls and gaps, and orients research activity to support the USCG mission needs. The particular areas that ADAC seeks to assist the USCG are related to missions in support of Arctic search and rescue, humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and security matters. As a university-hosted research venue, ADAC supports student education. ADAC's research and development not only serves USCG and other DHS maritime missions, but also benefit an array of ADAC partners and collaborators and support the public good.

ADAC's mission is to develop and transition technology solutions, innovative products, and educational programs to improve situational awareness and crisis response capabilities related to emerging maritime challenges in the dynamic Arctic environment. In addition to the Center’s core science and technology research agenda, ADAC has developed and published knowledge products requested by USCG, supported numerous research workshops and symposia to advance the community of Arctic science and technology, along with multiple forums to advance Arctic Security oriented strategy, policy and future plans, vital to support decision makers in an increasingly complex geo-strategic Arctic region. Integral to Center activities, ADAC conducts a productive educational mission, which includes an Arctic regional summer internship resulting in new college graduates skilled in Arctic oriented knowledge to support the Homeland Security Enterprise.