Forecast for Military Systems Using Electronic Digital Computers, 1948 September 17

MIT DIC 6345. Project Whirlwind Limited Memo L-3. Many plans are now being considered for the military use of information systems built around electronic digital computers. Such systems appear unique in their ability to process and evaluate information sufficiently rapidly for modern high-speed military operations. The advantages gained when digital information systems make possible the better integration and more effective use of other military equipment should more than justify the diversion of men and resources to digital information system development. An approximate estimate has been made of the time and cost to bring such information systems to useful military realization. This forecast shows a period of fifteen years and a research and development cost, including field testing and trial operation, of two billion dollars ($2,000,000,000) to bring these systems to an operational status. An equal or greater production program would follow for equipping the Military Services with production equipment. Compensating adjustments in completion time and total cost can be made to meet military necessity. Such a program would require an active training plan to provide necessary personnel. An initial investigation requiring four years and sixty-five million dollars ($65,000,000) would provide tho necessary information on which the importance and feasibility of the complete program could be judged.