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The future of defence and aerospace research: a view from the front

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 July 2016

J. E. Green
J. E. Green*
Affiliation:
Aircraft Research Association
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Abstract

This paper considers defence and aerospace research in the UK from the perspective of a research worker. The distinction between research, technology demonstration and development, the particular characteristics of research and the qualities required in a research worker are discussed. The important influence of the research environment, both within an organisation and nationally, is highlighted. The contribution of the past environment to the research underlying the present strength of UK technology, and subsequent adverse changes in the environment, are noted. The decline of UK research funding and of the UK research base is contrasted with the situation of our main industrial competitors. Finally, the author lists the actions which he believes are needed to rebuild research to a level which will underwrite the long-term future of UK defence and aerospace.

Type
Research Article
Information
The Aeronautical Journal , Volume 104 , Issue 1031 , January 2000 , pp. 39 - 46
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Aeronautical Society 2000 

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