One of the primary tasks of any state is to maintain its defense potential and its national security. The Russian government has invested significant physical and human resources in the last decade to strengthen the armed forces. As a result of this work the defense industry complex has become one of the hubs of advanced technologies, knowledge and highly skilled personnel. As proved by the international experience, these resources can be used efficiently in the process of diversification of defense production for the purpose of enhancement of technological efficiency and competitiveness of the civilian industry. Thus, the aim of the study is to analyze and systematize the international experience in the defense industry diversification process. In order to achieve this goal, we have analyzed economic studies devoted to this topic and statistical data. The results of a study include specific recommendations helping to set up efficient management and control system of the diversification process. Such system should be based on the integration of the military and civilian sectors, interconnection of science, education and business and involve the methods of assessment of its effectiveness. The processes of diversification and integration will accelerate the transfer of technologies, intensify the innovative activity of enterprises, contribute to the transition to the 6th technological mode, which is of particular importance for Russia in the current restrictive conditions.