Initial Operational Test & Evaluation
Abstract
Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (lOT&E) is conducted to determine the operational effectiveness and suitability and resolve overall mission capability of systems undergoing research and development (R&D) efforts. It is an evaluation of a system's performance when the complete system is tested and evaluated against operational criteria by personnel with the same qualifications as those who will operate, maintain and support the system when deployed. In general, lOT&E is performed on new systems in development, major modifications, and other systems as directed. This PE funds Congressionally mandated lOT&E to support major weapon system acquisition decisions beyond Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP), Milestone C, full rate production, fielding, and declaration of Initial Operational Capability (IOC). For major systems designated for use in combat, the law requires IOT&E be completed under realistic field conditions before proceeding beyond LRIP. IOT&E will be planned to completely and unambiguously answer all critical operational issues (COl) as thoroughly as possible. This PE funds the OT participation in Integrated Developmental Test/Operational Test (IDT/OT), the Air Force participation in Multiservice Operational Test and Evaluation (MOT&E), and Follow-on Operational Test and Evaluation (FOT&E) when it is the continuation of IOT&E activities past the full rate production decision. FOT&E answers specific questions about unresolved COls and test issues, or completes areas not finished during the lOT&E. This PE also funds related operational test and evaluation (OT&E) activities such as Operational Utility Evaluations (OUE), Early Operational Assessments (EOA), Operational Assessments (OA), and independent IOT&E which support major milestones and decision points prior to Milestone C, full rate production, fielding, or declaration of IOC. lOT&E programs are identified in several system categories: Air; Space; Weapons; Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I); and Combat Support. Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center (AFOTEC) obtains general support services from contracts awarded after employing full and open competition contracting strategies. This is a level of effort program element. Budget Activity Justification: This program is in Budget Activity 6, RDT&E Management Support because it funds weapon system IOT&E tests conducted to evaluate a system's operational effectiveness and suitability and to identify any operational deficiencies or need for modifications in support of the acquisition process.
Document Details
- Document Type
- R2 Budgetary Justification
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2012
- Source ID
- 0605712F_6_3600_PB_2012
- Change Summary Explanation
- No significant changes
- Service Agency Name
- Air Force
Entities
Organizations
- United States Air Force