Emerging Science and Technology Trends: 2016-2045: A Synthesis of Leading Forecasts
Abstract
This is the third annual report on emerging trends in science and technology (S and T) published by the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Research and Technology (DASA R and T). As in prior years, the report has two primary objectives. First, it is intended to inform leaders across the U.S. Army and stakeholders in the joint, interagency, and international community about S and T trends that are likely to influence the future operating environment and shape warfighting capabilities over the next 30 years. Second, it is intended to spark strategic dialogue around the kind of S and T investments the Army should make to ensure that our Soldiers maintain overmatch in future operations. This 2016 version of the S and T Strategic Trends report synthesizes32 S and T forecasts that have been published over the past five years by government agencies in the U.S. and abroad, industry leaders, international institutions, and think tanks. The objective was to identify trends that are most likely to generate revolutionary or disruptive change of interest to the Army over the next 30 years. By consolidating multiple trend analyses into a single reference document, this report aims to provide a ready reference for Army leadership as it considers the important role S and T will play in shaping the future of our Army. Analysis of the source documents produced 690 individual trends related to science and technology, as well as trends related to broader contextual factors that will shape the evolution of S and T over the coming decades. From this data set, 24 emerging science and technology trends were identified: In addition to these emerging S and T trends, this report discusses six broad contextual forces that are likely to shape the evolution of science and technology over the next 30 years: urbanization, climate change, resource constraints, shifting demographics, the globalization of innovation, and the rise of a global middle class.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1076894
Entities
People
- Jason Augustyn