Application of Lightweighting Technology to Military Vehicles, Vessels, and Aircraft assesses the current state of, and recommendations for, lightweighting design and development in land, sea, and air vehicles-primarily those developed or used by the military. In addition to reducing the weight of materials, the report outlines other, more systematic considerations, including innovative architectural design; lighter, more durable materials development; and research on preventing manufacturing defects and improving the multifunctionality of parts and devices. That is, a more comprehensive design and acquisition process could increase attributes such as the maneuverability, durability, range, payload capacity, performance, fuel consumption and survivability, while reducing excess weight.

Report of a Workshop on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Workforce Needs for the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Defense Industrial Base

This report summarizes a joint National Research Council and National Academy of Engineering workshop held August 1-2, 2011 on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Workforce Needs for the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) and the U.S. Defense Industrial Base. The workshop focused on understanding the STEM workforce DOD needs to support its mission; the labor supply available nationally and any limitations thereof in responding to demand for STEM workers; and how to ensure an adequate STEM workforce in an uncertain future. This summary is one of a series of reports that will be released during the course of the 18-month study.