Thursday, September 05, 2013

China's Push into Big Science

China has aimed to overcome deficiencies in areas critical to its national security ever since it initiated the National High Technology Program ("863") in March 1986 - the most important civilian-military R&D program next to the “Two Weapons, and One Satellite” science and technology development plan of 1956-67.

The 863 Program featured a concurrent development of dual-use technologies applicable in both civilian and military domains. The program had initially focused on developing seven strategic priority areas: laser technology, space, biotechnology, information technology, automation and manufacturing technology, energy, and advanced materials. In the mid-1990s, China expanded these areas in size, scope, and importance, shifting its trajectory toward cutting-edge technological products and processes. The 863 Program is ongoing, funding projects such as the Tianhe-1A supercomputer.

These projects include their equivalent of the National Ignition Facility, their own GPS system and hypersonic technology research.

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