Net Technical Assessment - Methodologies for Program Planning within the Department of Defense

The subject of this study is Net Technical Assessment and the object is the formalization of a methodology which facilitates accomplishing the objectives of NTA. This effort has resulted in the formulation of a methodology - actually two - together with instructions and advice on their exercise. The focus of this research is upon the technological level - systems, subsystems, and supportive sciences level - as contrasted with force structure, strategic doctrine, budgetary, or national goals levels where assessments are also performed. Technological Net Technical Assessment is a process of aggregation of information regarding the relative current and projected technological positions of the U.S. and foreign powers. NTA is very decision related. It embraces the issues of impact assessment of the net technical differentials and formulation of program plans designed to improve the relative position of the U. S. in the future.