CHAPTER III - TECHNOLOGY UNBOUND: THE NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the need and opportunities of unbound technological solutions that play a vital role in the drive to narrow the gap between American aspirations and output. The resources of scientific and technical skill committed to national security are likely to find a receptive market should they become available for redeployment. To some extent, that market will call forth the direct transfer of knowledge and techniques now within the defense sector of the economy by conversion of existing productive units. New concentrations of R&D capability can also be expected to form to serve wholly new tasks and priorities of government, industry, and consumers. The bases for future demand are, thus, already being prepared. The chapter highlights some of the areas where technical resources now heavily invested in defense can serve urgent nondefense needs. Organizational, administrative, and financial barriers stand in the way of achieving the broad perspective on transportation as a whole that modernization requires. Nonetheless, numerous lines for research and development have already been envisioned. Further research and exploratory development is in process in hydrofoil and air-cushion vehicle transportation, under both private and Federal Maritime Administration sponsorship, although in many respects, work is less far advanced in the United States than in other countries.