Understanding the emergence of disruptive innovation in Air Force science and technology organizations

Abstract

Although innovation is widely discussed in both military and industry venues, many organizations continue to struggle with what it means to be creative as well as maintain a competitive advantage. Many believe that the Department of Defense (DoD) science and technology (S&T) community, once a great leader in developing breakthrough innovation, is losing the competitive edge in technology development [11]. The United States Air Force has specifically struggled with the balance between improving existing technologies and employing revolutionary technologies [18]. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to study the emergence of disruptive innovation in Air Force S&T and to investigate how industry innovation strategies can foster breakthrough technology [15]. By better understanding the principles of innovation, motivation, focus of resources, barriers, and characteristics of an innovative culture, the Air Force and other military technology organizations will be uniquely positioned to transform its S&T investment strategies and reassert technological relevance for the future.