Digital transformation not only changes the innovation division of the global innovation network, but also affects the value layout of enterprises’ R D internationalization strategy. It is the main source of innovation for enterprises. This paper takes A-share listed manufacturing companies from 2006 to 2021 as the research object, and empirically analyzes the relationship between R D internationalization and enterprise innovation performance in the context of Digital transformation by using the Heckman two-stage model. Results are as follows. Digital transformation is conducive to promoting enterprises to carry out R D internationalization. Digital transformation helps to release the positive effect of R D internationalization on enterprise innovation performance. The diversification of R D internationalization strategic layout is more conducive to the improvement of enterprise innovation performance. In heterogeneity analysis, the internationalization of research and development shows a stronger improvement effect on the innovation performance of state-owned enterprises, high-tech industry sample enterprises, and low innovation resource city sample enterprises. Environmental uncertainty and supply chain concentration ratio have a positive moderating effect on the relationship between R D internationalization and enterprise innovation performance, while analyst attention has a negative moderating effect. Therefore, we should further promote industrial digitalization, create a prosperous and orderly industrial international collaborative innovation ecosystem, build an international innovation network with shock resistance and strong resilience, and play a positive role of Digital transformation in R D internationalization and enterprise innovation.