In this issue

While the US dominates defence technology spending and exports, some experts are warning that dwindling budgets are creating a climate that discourages R&D investment. Meanwhile, in China the industry is booming, creating a breeding pool for competitive innovation. We ask whether the US needs to change its approach to military innovation in order to keep a competitive edge.  

We also check out the contenders for the US Navy’s new unmanned aerial refuelling system, take a look at the success of the Royal Air Force’s award-winning apprenticeship programme, and hear about the trends in defence logistics for the year ahead. Plus, we find out about the latest developments in regenerative medicine on the battlefield, and look back on the lessons learned during a century of submarine rescue operations.

Susanne Hauner, editor