The problem of strategic R & D investment is formulate as a differential game model and solved explicity for a special case. It is shown that, at equilibrium, an increase in the intensity of market competition or a decrease in the role of technology transfer results in an increase in the initial rate of investment by competing tfirms. The increased initial investment rate may enhance the rate of technology development. This dynamic model can be used to propose non cooperative R & D investment policies in technologically competitive situation.