Fundamental Research and U.S. National Security [Point of View

Abstract

Examines the need and importance for the continued funding and support for the U.S. Department of Defense's (DOD)research initiatives. The DOD has a long history of supporting and conducting scientific research, dating back over a century. The enormous impact of research on World War II capabilities (radar, encryption, disease prevention and control, etc.) focused the need for dedicated DoD fundamental research funding agencies. Discusses the technologies, applications, and services that were the result of DOD research and development activities since World War II. In this time of restricted budgets, DoD must resist the temptation to divert research funds to other, seemingly more urgent, requirements. Fundamental research is particularly vulnerable in this regard and must be protected diligently. To sacrifice future military superiority through technology research in order to help pay current operating expenses is a serious mistake.