AbstractMilitary R&D programmes are becoming increasingly important in Brazilian S&T. At the same time there is a deterioration of the S&T infrastructure. Civilian thought sees ‘professionalisation’ as one way to debilitate the military's power of veto in the political arena. This supports the military perception of their R&D programmes as a means of avoiding an identity — and perhaps legitimacy — crisis. It is debatable whether this trend is capable of providing the mix of interests and priorities required by the social and economic goals of Brazilian society. This article examines the underpinnings and objectives of military R&D programmes. It also evaluates their economic, technological and political potential implications for Brazilian society.