From Science to Overmatch: A Case Study of the Ballistic Research Laboratory Prior to and during World War 2

Author(s):

Alexander Kott

Abstract:

This report explores the extant literature regarding the history of the Ballistic Research Laboratory (BRL) prior to and during World War 2 (WW2) for the purposes of 1) identifying examples of research that contributed to recognized overmatch over the adversary, documented in an unambiguous, objective fashion, and 2) identifying related potential lessons learned for defense science and technology (S&T) organizations. The report identifies several important contributions of BRL’s scientific endeavors into WW2-era overmatch; highlights the need for systematic, longitudinal studies and documentation of science’s contribution to military capabilities; and notes that organizational climate and recognition of an S&T organization’s contributions are challenges that require continuous efforts to overcome.