Identification and Explanation of the Critical Success Factors of Technological Catch-up in the Marine Industry of the Defense Sector of the Islamic Republic of Iran

The defense industry of Iran has developed the technological capabilities required by its various departments during the technological catch-up process, which in some cases, has led to the elimination of the existing technological gap and the increase of Iran's competitiveness in the field of defense. However, a successful technological catch-up requires the identification of critical factors in various defense industries, such as the marine industry. In this regard, the purpose of this research is to identify and explain the critical factors of technological catch-up success factors in the marine industry of the defense sector. In this exploratory and qualitative research, first of all, regardless of the specific industry or field, the vital factors of technological catch-up have been extracted from the theoretical foundations and research background. Then, using the grounded theory strategy and relying on interviews with experts, the findings of the first step are examined in the marine industry of the defense sector. Accordingly, the critical success factors of the aforementioned industries, consist of supporting industry and domestic production, strengthening the role of skilled human resources, formulating appropriate laws and regulations, spreading the culture of self-confidence, strengthening the technological capability of the defense industry, promoting formal learning, strengthening the role of ownership, and strengthening the role of research centers