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Foundations of Defense Project Management

Editors: Darli Vieira, Alencar Bravo, Geraldo Ferrer

Series Title: Handbook of Defense Project Management

Foundations of Defense Project Management

Volume 1
ISBN: 979-8-89881-178-5
eISBN: 979-8-89881-177-8 (Online)

Introduction

The Handbook of Defense Project Management equips readers with the knowledge, frameworks, and practical tools necessary to navigate the complexities of modern defence initiatives, providing a comprehensive, authoritative guide to managing defence projects in today's rapidly evolving professional environment, where technology and security are key aspects.

Topics covered include project planning, decision-making, stakeholder engagement, contract and program management, agile methodologies, and technology integration. The book also explores advanced challenges such as procurement complexity, supply chain resilience, model-based systems engineering, leadership, education initiatives, and the use of combat simulations for operational effectiveness. Real-world case studies, including NATO collaborations and academia-industry-defence partnerships, illustrate best practices and actionable strategies.

Key Features

  • - Combines foundational knowledge with advanced, specialised topics in defence project management.
  • - Brings about a multidisciplinary approach bridging management, technology, and strategy.
  • - Provides practical frameworks, tools, and real-world case studies to enhance project success.
  • - Gives a global perspective with contributions from leading defence scholars and practitioners.

Target Readership:

Project managers in the defence sector and military professionals and academics, researchers, and graduate students seeking a thorough understanding of modern defence project management and its challenges.

Preface

The Handbook of Defense Project Management comprehensively explores the principles, strategies, and practices underpinning effective defense project management. Structured in two complementary volumes, it serves as an essential reference for academics and practitioners within the defense sector. While Volume 1 focuses on foundational principles, Volume 2 addresses advanced and specialized topics, offering an integrated perspective on the discipline. Together, these volumes form an indispensable resource for those seeking a holistic understanding of the discipline.

Volume 1—Foundations of Defense Project Management—brings together the core concepts and methodologies essential for successfully managing defense projects. It establishes a robust conceptual and operational foundation by integrating theoretical frameworks with practical tools and case studies.

This volume examines key topics, including the fundamentals of defense project management, encompassing security, regulatory compliance, and the necessity of adapting to evolving geopolitical landscapes. It also explores advanced strategies for risk mitigation, leveraging next-generation technologies, and executing large-scale initiatives. Readers will gain insights into the critical role of effective front-end planning in optimizing processes and controlling costs, the importance of decision-making frameworks in complex environments, and the fundamental impact of stakeholder engagement and collaboration.

Financial and contractual aspects, including harmonizing public policy with industry standards to ensure value delivery, are also discussed in depth. In addition, this volume addresses the best practices in technology transfer and strategic innovation, as well as the significance of knowledge-sharing in enhancing operational effectiveness. Emphasizing flexibility, governance, and political awareness, this volume equips readers to navigate the evolving defense environment with clarity and confidence.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the authors, whose expertise and commitment have made this handbook an invaluable resource. We trust that Volume 1 will provide both insight and inspiration, enabling readers to overcome challenges and seize opportunities in defense project management.

Darli Vieira
Management Department
Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières
Trois-Rivières (QC), Canada

Alencar Bravo
Management Department
Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières
Trois-Rivières (QC), Canada
&
Geraldo Ferrer
Department of Defense Management
Naval Postgraduate School
Monterey (CA), USA



Disclosure:

The similarities between the prefaces of Volume 1 (BMS-FDPM-2025-HT1-6936-1) and Volume 2 (BMS-ATDP-2025-HT1-6937-1) of the Handbook of Defense Project Management are intentional. They ensure consistency and reinforce the complementary nature of both volumes as a comprehensive resource on defense project management.

The opening section and acknowledgments are equal in both prefaces to provide a unified introduction and recognize the collective contributions of the authors. While the structure remains uniform, each preface highlights its volume’s distinct focus—Volume 1 on foundational principles and Volume 2 on advanced topics. This parallel approach enhances clarity and underscores the handbook’s integrated perspective.