This book is a study on the developments of a strategic plan to guide Federal programs and activities in support of advanced manufacturing research and development. Advanced manufacturing is a matter of fundamental importance to the economic strength and national security of the United States. Analysis of patterns and trends in U.S. advanced manufacturing reveals both opportunities for Federal policy to accelerate the development of this vital sector and challenges to its continuing health. The acceleration of innovation for advanced manufacturing requires bridging a number of gaps in the present U.S. innovation system, particularly the gap between research and development (R&D) activities and the deployment of technological innovations in domestic production of goods. The strategic plan discussed in this book lays out a robust innovation policy that would help to close these gaps and address the full life-cycle of technology.