A Study on the Rapid Demonstration Programs for the Timely Integration of Emerging Technologies into Weapon Systems : Focusing on Policy and Organization

Countries are pursuing military innovation to apply emerging technologies from the 4th industrial revolution to their weapon systems. Since launching the ACTD in 2008 and continuing through the rapid demonstration programs in 2023, R.O.K military forces have made continuous efforts to acquire weapon systems in a timely manner. However, institutional and organizational shortcomings still remain. This study analyzes the rapid acquisition system of the U.S. and R.O.K and proposes measures for R.O.K to improve its system not only institutional but also organizational perspectives. Institutionally, it suggests the introduction of K-CSM. If implemented, it would enable the development of innovative civilian prototypes into fully operational weapon system while shortening development time. On the organizational side, the study proposes the establishment of K-DIU, which stemmed from U.S. DIU. Through which, military forces like R.O.K.N, R.O.K.A.F, R.O.K.M.C would be able to carry out rapid demonstration programs effectively and professionally, without the need for separating specialized organizations.