Defensive Future Studies

Defensive Future Studies

Capability-Oriented Strategies in the Defense Industry

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
seyyed Mehdi Farahi
AMIN PASHAEI HOULASO
Assistant Professor of Industrial Management, Malek Ashtar University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
10.22034/dfsr.2026.2069037.1937
Abstract
Background and Objective: In today’s global environment—characterized by escalating hybrid threats, rapid advancements in emerging technologies, and intensifying geopolitical competition—achieving sustainable competitive advantage in the defense industry necessitates a focused development of core capabilities. This study aims to formulate capability-oriented strategies for the defense lens.
Methods: The research methodology is based on a comparative analysis of international experiences (U.S, China, Turkey, the United Kingdom, Iran, and others), a SWOT analysis of the national defense environment, and the derivation of both macro- and micro-level strategies.
Findings: Findings indicate that despite significant domestic potential in technology, human capital, and operational experience, several challenges—such as limited commercialization, excessive confidentiality, software-related deficiencies, and technological sanctions—have hindered the full realization of core capabilities within Iran’s defense industry.
Conclusions: A set of comprehensive strategies has been developed across seven key dimensions: smart deterrence, technological autonomy, value creation from dual-use technologies, innovation governance, cognitive warfare, technological diplomacy, and human capital preservation
Keywords
Core Capabilities
Defense Industry
Smart Deterrence
Innovation Governance
Defense Strategies
Subjects
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Defensive Future Studies
Volume 11, Issue 41
Summer 2026
Pages 157-196