Efforts have been made continuously by defence scientists and engineers to interest industrialists in the exploitation of their work. At the Paris Air Show in June 1985, as a recent example, several products in which DSTO had had a significant input were displayed. These included a pilot's glove which measures control stick forces, a doppler navigator trainer for helicopter pilots, a fatigue life meter for helicopter engines, a remote air-to-air control system for parachutes, and air drop water containers.

In the history of Australian defence, science has played a significant role in peace and in war. In peace by developing new equipment against contingency, by facilitating technology transfer from overseas, by advice which enables the defence forces to become informed buyers, and by assistance in the maintenance and repair of equipment. In times of financial stringency, competition for the defence dollar has often led to pressure to reduce the amount spent on research. As the defence scientists have more closely identified themselves with the armed services this will, we hope, become less likely in the future.

It is essential that the urgent does not altogether displace the important.

Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering