International cooperative research and development between the United States and France, Germany, and the United Kingdom

Abstract

With defense budgets shrinking throughout the world and coalition forces facing interoperability issues while conducting asymmetric warfare in a post Cold-War environment, many nations are seeking ways to acquire economical weapon systems that are interoperable with allies and coalition members. One method of addressing these concerns is International Cooperative Research and Development (ICRandD). This MBA Project will evaluate the current ICRandD process and make recommendations to enhance the ICRandD process by examining ICRandD between the U.S. and NATO Members, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Case studies were used for comparisons in order to determine the advantages and concerns pertaining to ICRandD and to recommend appropriate ICRandD strategies.