Improving The Usaf Technology Transfer Process

The transfer of technology is an integral part of many U.S. Air Force (USAF) security assistance programs that train and equip foreign military forces. The USAF comments on security assistance programs proposed by the other services and advises policymakers on commercial sales of weapons systems and dual-use technologies. It also engages in cooperative research-and-development projects with other nations. Some observers in the USAF believe that it has little influence on the technology transfer process and that its concerns are routinely ignored. This Note presents ideas for increasing both the external persuasiveness and internal efficiency of the USAF in technology transfer cases. They include suggestions for ways to (1) reduce delays in the coordination process, (2) remove inhibitions on dissent, (3) anticipate broader concerns, (4) identify controversial cases, (5) secure adequate information, and (6) reorganize the Internal Programs Directorate.