Structural-functional analysis of the Rotary Wing Technological Innovation System in Iran

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the current status of the Rotary Wing's Technology Innovation System (RWTIS) in Iran and identify its weaknesses and problems. For this purpose, a structural-functional approach has been used in evaluating innovation systems. The structural configuration of the system was studied and studied using six helicopter experts, in four dimensions of the actors, their interactions, institutions, and technology (its infrastructure). The presence of a strong network in the supply and demand segment of the public-defense and weak interactions of the private sector, policy-making and facilitators, and civilian demand were recognized as characteristics of the RWTIS’s structure in Iran. To assess the status of the functions of the system, the survey tool was used and it was found that the overall condition of the functions is in the weak and, of course, the functions of "knowledge diffusion" and "resource mobilization" are the weakest functions of this system. The weakness of the knowledge diffusion function is due to factors such as the level of participation and low competition of actors, and the space of diffusion of knowledge and technology. Regarding the mobilization of resources, the lack of financial resources and non-appropriate distribution of them in line with the needs and objectives of the system was identified as the main causes of the weakness.