ABSTRACT
Aerospace is a highly competitive global business in which technology plays a vital part. It is dominated by the United States (US) and Europe. The United Kingdom (UK) aerospace industry has an important economic influence on Europe. The US invests more in Research & Technology (R&T) than the total given by all of the European governments. In order for European companies to be able to effectively compete with the US, there is a clear need for European investment in aerospace R&T to more closely reflect that of the US. Technical capability can be broken down into a number of factors, all of equal importance: technology development, engineering and management staff, the right institutional structures and management organisations, both government and industry facilities, and the required funding from government contracts and private venture. The Pilot Phase of Foresight Action was launched in early 1996. Three pilot projects exist: Powered Wing, Flight Crew Environment, and Ultra Reliable Aircraft.
