Aerospace Plane Technology: Research and Development Efforts in Japan and Australia
Abstract
U.S. leadership and preeminence in the research and development of aerospace plane technologies are being challenged by Japan and other countries. U.S. leadership and preeminence are based on the National Aero-Space Plane Program. As discussed in our prior report on European aerospace plane technology, congressional supporters of the program are concerned about foreign competition and its impact on U.S. technological leadership. The former Chairman of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology asked GAO to identify indicators to measure foreign countries' current state of aerospace plane technological development and progress. The indicators were selected based on the interests of Committee representatives and on discussions with experts. These indicators are (1) space policies and aerospace goals and objectives; (2) aerospace plane program objectives, design goals, schedules, and costs; (3) the current status and rate of progress in the development of critical technologies; (4) the funding for and the number and type of people involved with the programs; (5) test facilities and their capabilities; and (6) the existence of and interest in international cooperation. The former Chairman also asked GAO to collect data and information on the indicators.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA241641
Entities
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office