RAND Origins: Secret Think Tank to Global Research Leader

The RAND Corporation, a name synonymous with cutting-edge research and strategic innovation, has its roots deeply embedded in the post-World War II era's most secretive and advanced aerospace endeavors. This story, drawn from William Mills Tompkins' revealing book "Selected by Extraterrestrials," sheds light on the origins of RAND and its evolution into an independent think tank that has shaped global defense and technological strategies.

The Birth of a Think Tank

In the aftermath of World War II, a clandestine meeting took place at the Army Air Corps Headquarters in Hamilton Field, California, in October 1945. This gathering of minds included General H.H. "Hap" Arnold, Edward Bowles of MIT, Donald Douglas of Douglas Aircraft Company, Arthur Raymond, and Frank Collbohm. Their objective was clear: to create a think tank that would spearhead advanced research and development, addressing the technological challenges and opportunities of the future, particularly those involving extraterrestrial phenomena.

RAND, initially a special project within Douglas Aircraft Company, was tasked with exploring the potential of manmade satellites and conducting highly classified scientific research. The think tank's early focus included understanding and countering the technological threats posed by potential alien technologies, a mission that required top-secret clearances and a deep pool of scientific expertise.

Growing Pains and Independence

As RAND's influence and size grew, so did the tensions between its mission and Douglas Aircraft's manufacturing management. By early 1948, with around 200 staff members, it became apparent that RAND needed to operate independently to fulfill its ambitious goals. This led to a pivotal decision: RAND would become a nonprofit corporation, separate from Douglas Aircraft.

The U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff's approval marked the formal birth of the RAND Corporation as an independent entity. Now based in its own building in downtown Santa Monica, RAND continued its pioneering work, unfettered by the constraints of its former parent company.

Contributions to Science and Defense

RAND's early research laid the groundwork for many of the technological advancements that define modern aerospace and defense. From satellite development to addressing the challenges of extraterrestrial technology, RAND's work was at the forefront of innovation. The think tank's influence extended across numerous fields, solving complex problems and developing strategies that would guide U.S. defense policy for decades.

William Tompkins' experiences in the Douglas think tank offer a glimpse into the secretive and highly collaborative environment that characterized RAND's operations. His stories of advanced design projects and the intellectual rigor required to tackle such unprecedented challenges underscore the think tank's critical role in shaping modern science and technology.

Legacy and Continuing Influence

Today, the RAND Corporation remains a global leader in research and analysis, continuing its tradition of addressing the world's most pressing challenges. From its origins in the secretive halls of Douglas Aircraft's engineering department to its current status as an independent powerhouse of innovation, RAND's journey is a testament to the vision and dedication of its founders and the countless researchers who have contributed to its success.

The story of RAND is not just one of technological advancement; it is a narrative of visionary thinking, relentless pursuit of knowledge, and the unwavering belief in the power of research to transform the world.

Origins of RAND

1. Inception and Key Figures

   • RAND (Research ANd Development) was conceived during a secret meeting in October 1945 at the Army Air Corps Headquarters in Hamilton Field, California.
   • High-profile attendees included:
     • General H.H. "Hap" Arnold, Commanding General of the Army Air Forces
     • Edward Bowles of MIT, a consultant to the Secretary of War
     • Donald Douglas, President of Douglas Aircraft Company
     • Arthur Raymond, Chief Engineer at Douglas
     • Frank Collbohm, Raymond's assistant, who played a pivotal role in RAND's early activities.

2. Initial Purpose and Evolution

   • RAND was created to conduct advanced research and development to address potential technological threats and opportunities, particularly those posed by extraterrestrial phenomena.
   • It initially functioned as a special contract within Douglas Aircraft Company, based at the Santa Monica Municipal Airport.
   • The think tank's mission included exploring the implications of alien technology and other advanced scientific problems.

3. Separation from Douglas

   • By early 1948, RAND had grown to a significant size with around 200 staff members.
   • A conflict of interest arose between RAND's objectives and Douglas Manufacturing management, leading to a separation.
   • The U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff approved the evolution of RAND into an independent nonprofit corporation, formally separating it from Douglas Aircraft Company.

4. Independent Operation

   • Post-separation, RAND leased a building in downtown Santa Monica, continuing its research independently.
   • Despite the separation, the relationship between RAND and Douglas remained strong, with many RAND employees having ties to the former parent company.

Notable Contributions and Areas of Research

• Satellite Development

  • One of RAND's early missions was to research the potential design, performance, and use of manmade satellites.

• Advanced Scientific Research

  • RAND tackled thousands of scientific problems across various fields, particularly focusing on technological threats from potential extraterrestrial sources.

• Project RAND's Impact

  • RAND's research significantly influenced U.S. aerospace and defense strategies during the early Cold War period.
  • The think tank's work laid the groundwork for numerous advanced technology projects, including those related to space exploration and missile development.

Anecdotes and Personal Accounts

• William Tompkins recounts his experiences working in the Douglas think tank, providing insight into the secretive and innovative environment that characterized RAND's early days.
• The book includes stories of Tompkins' involvement in various advanced design projects, highlighting the collaborative and often clandestine nature of the work at RAND.