Policy issues involved in the conduct of military development programs

Expert InsightsPublished 1962

A discussion of issues involved in the conduct of military R&D. In examining the essential nature of this activity, the autor attempts to determine: (1) why weapon systems undergo pronounced changes in the course of development; and (2) when in the development process it can be determined if the product is going to work and what it will really cost. The implications of these problems for R&D policies are twofold. The government should be devoting a significant proportion of its R&D expenditures to activities falling outside the major weapon systems programs. In addition, the approach taken in systems development projects should be experimental. The obstacles in getting R&D policies better oriented in these directions are indicated.

Document Details

  • Copyright: RAND Corporation
  • Availability: Web Only
  • Year: 1962
  • Pages: 34
  • Document Number: P-2648

Citation

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Policy issues involved in the conduct of military development programs. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation, 1962. https://www.rand.org/pubs/papers/P2648.html.
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