The Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division (NSWCDD) is a shore command of the U.S. Navy under the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), and performs cutting-edge research and development and is the leader in warfare systems design and integration, ensuring warfare systems superiority for the warfighter.

Unlike DoD organizations that receive their funding directly from appropriations acts, Defense Working Capital Fund (DWCF) activities like NSWCDD must earn their funds by charging customers for the expert goods and services provided, similar to private sector businesses. Unlike profit-oriented private-sector companies, however, the goal of the DWCF is to financially break even. Most DWCF customers are DoD organizations. Annually, about 20% of total Defense appropriations flows through and is executed by DWCF activities.