| This paper maintains that the character and application of sea power will change in the next century due to transformations in technological innovation. Research conclusions suggest that organizational responses to technological innovation is decisive in sustaining modern armed forces. These "organizations" may be military, governmental, industrial, or a combination of the three. Indeed, within a given nation, various organizations may be working at cross-purposes with regard to the incorporation of advanced technology into the nation's armed forces. In summary, organizational responses to technological innovation varies; organizational responses to technological innovation matters.; The changing character of maritime power is evaluated through an examination of current trends, historical precedent, and deductive logic. Of the many factors influencing maritime power, an exponential growth in mankind's use of science and technology is the key to understanding the future of sea power. To a greater degree than has historically been true, a small number of states excelling in science and technology, and possessing the industrial capability to capitalize on that excellence, are distancing themselves economically and militarily from the mass of the international community. Within this small group of states technological breakthroughs will enable states to leapfrog one another in power rankings (both in actual and in perceived rankings). Relative economic and military strength has never been a more fragile and waning national attribute. Since history offers examples both of ready acceptance of new technology and of organizational complacency in the face of change, the ability of national leadership to foster receptive attitudes toward technology within important government organizations will be of singular importance in the coming technological struggle.; Due to technological innovations, the character of sea power may evolve into something much like that of traditional land power. This research demonstrates that those who suggest that maritime power is becoming irrelevant to modern international power rankings fail to understand the true nature of maritime power, or its historic resilience. |
