United States military aircraft engine historical performance and technological trends: An empirical assessment of technological change and implications for R&D Investment

This dissertation examines technological change in the U.S. military aircraft engines by using statistical methods and trend analyses. The statistical analysis relies on a database containing technical and performance parameters for over 250 turbine engine types developed between 1950 and 2002. The empirical analysis draws from the literature on technological change and measurement and forecasting methods. The quantitative techniques used also compare product improvement engines to those that have been considered new technology development. Finally, it explores the effect of technology on development costs and schedule.