[Kirkwood]

“Personally, I believe that since it was invented at public University using DARPA money...it should be public domain.”

You sure about that? That would be communism.

[muawiyah]

The gub'mnt attempts to get research done as cheaply as possible. Most research contracts are written so that the patents are retained by the individuals doing the work (and they, in turn, have usually signed an agreement to assign the patents to the institution).

When it comes to government employees the federales will find a small army of federal lawyers standing in their way if they attempt to keep a patent ~ so they don't file for any.

[Mariner]

"You sure about that? That would be communism."

With all facilities, personnel and money involved being paid by taxes....no it is not communism.

The development of this engine is not a private endeavor at any level.