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COMPETITIVE ASSESSMENT OF TECHNOLOGY 117 account for over 12 percent of the total aircraft price. Thus, with less expensive avionics in foreign aircraft, the U.S. competitive position could be jeopardized. In summary, significant opportunities exist for further advances in technology. These advances will have their impact primarily in the production of aircraft that are lighter, more efficient, quieter, and more economical to operate. Thus, while they will lead to significant improvements in the economics of air transport, they are unlikely to affect the amenities that are more visible to the passengerâspeed, comfort, and roominess. The United States enjoys leadership or parity in all the important technologies, but in all cases the lead is small and our competitors have the necessary skills and knowledge to achieve leadership if our momentum falters. The area of greatest concern within the industry is its potential inability to translate advances in technology into new aircraft that incorporate the latest technology. The possibility of partnership between European and Japanese companies would lead to truly formidable competition. Status of Research, Development, and Production Capabilities Research Capabilities Technology development starts at the level of the research laboratory. In the United States the prime aeronautical research facilities are those of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the U.S. Military Services, and the major airframe companies. The capital investment in NASA test facilities and wind tunnels over the years has resulted in an extensive capability to support the requirements of research, design, and total systems tests for all aeronautical systems. The current replacement value of these federal facilities is estimated at approximately 10 billion dollars. Total NASA employment is currently 21,200 people, of whom 3,740 specialize in aeronautics. Information on European research and technology efforts indicates strong concentration on many of the same concepts being pursued in the United States. Western European countries have some excellent aeronautical laboratory facilities and many excellent technical universities. The National Research Facilities (similar to NASA) which support the major Airbus Industrie partner companies are: Great Britain Royal Aircraft Establishment (RAE) Eight wind tunnelsâ7,300 people (1980)
