Appendix A - TRL Table

Appendix A
Technology Readiness Level (TRL)
Level

Definition

Basic principles observed
and reported.

Technology concept
and/or application
formulated.

Analytical and
experimental critical
function and/or
characteristic proof of
concept.

Component and/or
breadboard validation in
laboratory environment.

Component and/or
breadboard validation in
relevant environment.

System/subsystem model
or prototype
demonstration in a
relevant environment.

System prototype
demonstration in an
operational environment.

Actual system completed
and qualified through test
and demonstration.

Actual system proven
through successful
mission operations.

DoD DAG Description

Lowest level of technology readiness. Scientific research begins to be translated into applied research and
development. Examples might include paper studies of a
technology’s basic properties.
Invention begins. Once basic principles are observed,
practical applications can be invented. Applications are speculative and there may be no proof or detailed
analysis to support the assumptions. Examples are
limited to analytic studies.
Active research and development is initiated. This
includes analytical studies and laboratory studies to
physically validate analytical predictions of separate
elements of the technology. Examples include
components that are not yet integrated or
representative.
Basic technological components are integrated to
establish that they will work together. This is relatively “low fidelity” compared to the eventual system.
Examples include integration of “ad-hoc” hardware in
the laboratory.
Fidelity of breadboard technology increases significantly. The basic technological components are integrated with
reasonably realistic supporting elements so it can be
tested in a simulated environment.
Representative model or prototype system, which is well beyond that of TRL 5, is tested in a relevant
environment. Represents a major step up in a
technology’s demonstrated readiness.
Prototype near, or at, planned operational system.
Represents a major step up from TRL 6, requiring
demonstration of an actual system prototype in an
operational environment such as an aircraft, vehicle or space.
Technology has been proven to work in its final form
and under expected conditions. In almost all cases, this TRL represents the end of true system development.
Examples include developmental test and evaluation of