Examining the Factors Driving Military Innovation Using the Fuzzy DEMATEL Method: A Case Study of Türkiye

The study explores the perception of military innovation in Turkey, with the primary objective of defining this perception and prioritizing the factors that drive military innovation. While the existing literature on military innovation is limited, there is a noticeable absence of prioritization studies among them. Broadly, civilian influence, evolving threat perception, military and economic alliances, technological innovation, military culture, competition with rival armies, and operational requirements are identified as key factors within discussions on military innovation. The Fuzzy DEMATEL method was chosen in line with the research's objectives. A total of 7 participants, including civilian and military experts, as well as academics with expertise in military innovation and operating in Turkey, took part in the study. The research findings highlight the most crucial criteria driving military innovation, with competition with rival armies, technological innovation, military and economic alliances, changing threat perception, operational requirements, military culture, and civilian influence emerging as the most crucial. These findings have significant implications, as they underscore the need for increased awareness of the components of military innovation and call for further research in this area. Moreover, they have the potential to significantly influence and shape future strategies and policies in the field of military innovation.