National pulse power R&D issues

The authors examine the focus and funding of pulse power research and development in the USA that is purposefully advancing the state-of-the-art as compared to what is generally thought to be the existing technology and investment thrusts nationwide. The findings of the US DoD Pulse Power Audit Team 18-month-long study for the fiscal years (FY) FY89 and FY90 are presented in an effort to clarify the relationship between pulse power technology products and the investments that are being made to foster those R&D products. These findings are compared with those published in the Congressional Critical Technologies Report. Finally, the authors identify the needs that are not being satisfied according to the DoD key technologies involved in the audit study and offer some suggestions on what can be done to meet those needs