1. Technology Development and Transition
Carol A. Cash, Chair
Aeronautics Subcommittee
AIAA Public Policy Committee

2. Aero R&D Plan calls for technology advancement but does not address
The Issues
Aero R&D Plan calls for technology advancement but does not address
High-risk research
Infrastructure sustainment
Financial commitment
Research budgets constrained due to funding cuts and sequestration
Increased risk aversion impacting US leadership in aerospace
No disciplined methodology to assess technology maturation
STPI study revealed 70 barriers to technology transition
Need to energize tomorrow’s workforce
Focus on aeronautics but applicable to other aerospace sectors

3. Support “X-plane” competitions and capability demonstrations
Recommendations
Invest in balanced risk portfolio with demonstration “off-ramps” leading to technology transition
Support “X-plane” competitions and capability demonstrations
Require programs to include frequent demonstrations to validate technologies