Defense Technology Objectives of the Joint Warfighting Science and Technology and Defense Technology Area Plan.
Abstract
Since World War II, owning the technology advantage has been a cornerstone of our national military strategy. Technologies like radar, jet engines, nuclear weapons, night vision, Global Positioning System, smart weapons, and stealth have changed warfare dramatically. Today's technological edge allows us to prevail across the broad spectrum of conflict decisively and with relatively low casualties. Maintaining this technological edge has become even more important as the size of U.S. Forces decreases and high technology weapons are now readily available on the world market. In this new environment, it is imperative that U.S. forces possess technological superiority to prevail. The technological advantage we enjoyed in Desert Storm and still enjoy today is a legacy of decades of investment in Science and Technology (S&T). Likewise, our future warfighting capabilities will be substantially determined by today's investment in S&T. In peace, technological superiority is a key element of deterrence. In crisis, it provides a wide spectrum of options to the National Command Authorities and Commanders in Chief, while providing confidence to our allies. In war, it enhances combat effectiveness, reduces casualties and minimizes equipment loss. In view of declining defense budgets and manpower reductions, advancing military technology is a national security obligation of ever greater importance.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA310990
Entities
Organizations
- Office of the Director