‘Spinoffs’ From Defense Spending
The anti-defense forces are at it again. We are still expected to believe that research and development designed to deter war is immoral and costly. That hasn’t changed. But now Daniel Greenberg (Editorial Pages, Sept 9) tells us the tremendous potential military research and development have always had for improving our daily lives is nothing but delusion. Greenberg appears to ignore decades of scientific fact solely to convince us not to spend money on critical defense research programs. The delusion is his.
Over the past 30 years, military-funded research and development has spawned major new industries; created tremendous new opportunities for jobs and wealth; and brought a new safety, comfort, and convenience to the average citizen that was beyond our imagination just a few short years ago. And the “spinoffs” of today give us only a glimmer of what the future can hold.
The mind boggles at the number of examples of civilian “spinoffs” just from Air Force-sponsored research and development alone. The personal computer, maybe the world’s fastest growth industry, was an Air Force research program into micro-miniaturization and the integrated circuit chip in the 1950s.
The digital watch and the calculator, plus the timing and control circuitry for most home appliances, automobiles, and computers, also evolved through Air Force-sponsored research in the 1960s. Solar cell technology that we began funding at the same time has led to similarly amazing developments.
Modern ceramic cookware that doesn’t burn, discolor, or crack under sudden temperature changes comes from the same material developed for our ICBM nose cones. Graphite composites used in Air Force aircraft and engines are now also found in golf clubs, fishing poles, skis, tennis rackets, and race car bodies. The automotive industry is also exploring advanced composites to reduce structural weight and increase fuel efficiency.
But that’s not all. The nickel cadmium battery that powers today’s wristwatch; the “special cutting edge” of your razor; the carbon lining of man’s favorite pipe; sturdy, lightweight, non-breakable luggage; sunglasses that darken as the sun gets brighter; lightweight, non-breakable luggage; lightweight cold weather clothing; super alloy yarns in draperies and bedspreads; and even the cloth-like paper of coffee filters--are all “spinoffs” of Air Force research and development.
THOMAS E. COOPER
Washington
Cooper is assistant secretary for research, development and logistics in the Department of the Air Force.
