Under the influence of (inter)national technological, political and economic developments, the defence industry is increasingly intertwined with and developing towards a civil industry. Consequently, the political responsibilities, attitude and measurements are changing for both the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Economic Affairs. An analysis of the Dutch defence industry helped to determine the main innovative opportunities of the industry and to identify the complementary technological competences needed to make the most of these opportunities. Also strategic vision, including options for innovation policy, was developed.