Technology Transfer in Military Projects: the A-Darter Project case´s

Abstract

The present work aims to analyze the effectiveness of the technology transfer model adopted in the A-Darter Project, in relation to the objectives established for the project. The research was conducted using the Case Study methodology and guided by the revision of definitions and concepts related to the triad composed of science, technology and innovation, taking as a reference the categories of dimensions and efficiency criteria of the Technology Transfer Effectiveness Model Bozeman's contingent (2000). In the data collection stage, semi-structured interviews were conducted with officers from the Air Forces of Brazil and South Africa, as well as civil representatives of the companies contracted for the development of A-Darter who worked in the various phases of the project, at a managerial level in Brazil and in South Africa. The missile, developed in accordance with the operational requirements defined by the South African Air Force and the Brazilian Air Force, oversaw the South African state company Denel, with the participation of specialists from the Air Force Command and Brazilian companies: Avibras, Mectron and Opto Defense and Space, from the Akaer group, operating in both countries, with the responsibility of assimilate all the technology and reproduce the main missile systems in Brazil. The A-Darter Project indicated capacity of the national industry, especially the industrial defense base, in the development of high-tech weapons systems. The peculiar model of technology transfer, with the joint development of a complex system, incorporated with the most modern technologies available on the market, is the first to be undertaken in this format