8The Transformation of Defense Innovation Systems: Knowledge Bases, Disruptive Technologies and Operational Capabilities

8.1. Introduction

Innovation is a strategy that enables public and private organizations to manage change in all its forms [BAR 17b]. For defense stakeholders, its primary purpose is to provide the armed forces with effective organizational designs, equipment and capabilities, the latter being considered as critical resources in supporting national defense and security objectives. While the military model of innovation management remains deeply rooted in experimentation and collaboration between academic, industrial and military actors, the defense community is currently facing several challenges. Indeed, economic and institutional structures supporting defense-oriented innovation have evolved in response to technological and political changes, including those affecting publicly funded R&D, defense and security policies and military doctrines. Increasing competition between Nations and companies, together with changes affecting the cognitive and technological landscape, also shaped how defense stakeholders (i.e. companies, military services, government agencies, ministries of defense) currently struggle to adapt their core competences and create value to their customers.

Following [BAR 19b], two dimensions of change are at stake when dealing with the transformation of defense innovation systems. The first dimension is concerned with defense-related knowledge ...

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