[jvanderbot]

The few DARPA tasks I've worked on or had steerage over usually involved getting results quickly and iterating. The initial kickoff call with the stakeholders were about shared vision, but then there was a quick feedback loop until a final report was derived from the call notes and slides.

In that respect, it's a very decent way to do R&D - you have access to a highly motivated stakeholder with a clear vision of how your work fits in the larger scheme, and are allowed to iterate your way to a product both are proud of.