Although ostensibly having two promotion tracks, management and technical, the latter was greatly devalued, and 95% of promotions beyond MTS 5 levels were given to those who assumed management positions. This may be changing, since the technical track is now emphasized as being real. But it's too soon yet to tell.
Although most people are interested in providing the best technical advice to their government sponsors, as everywhere, there are a few who simply seek perpetuation of current work, current trends, and will devalue sound technical advice.
Management is often not as technical as they think they are, especially the higher they are.