Independent Research and Development (IR&D): The Challenges Continue.

摘要

The United States has the most advanced military in the world. As a result, the government s support for private research and development has become a crucial aspect of its efforts to maintain the military s technological superiority. Though the United States remains ahead of most other advanced nations when it comes to military superiority, the technological gap is beginning to shrink as other countries find new ways to improve upon existing technology. Three major threats to the United States technological superiority remain: Adversary adaptation: With adequate time to study American systems and tactics, adversary militaries have been able to successfully close in on the United States technological superiority. Short-term budget decisions: Shrinking defense budgets have led to a decline in funding for R&D. Times of peace, however, are a prime opportunity to develop and build new technologies to prepare for future conflicts. Potential loss of superior technological capabilities: The high risks involved with new technologies, as well as a dependence on military contractors, may threaten the United States ability to produce technologically superior goods.