Space Systems Requirements Analysis & Maturation

Abstract

The Space Systems Requirements Analysis and Maturation (RAM) program addresses a critical need for decision-quality acquisition information prior to committing to a program new start. A number of DoD, GAO, and industry studies point to a need for more disciplined early-phase systems engineering and pre-systems acquisition planning to produce the detailed acquisition information that previously did not surface until after the initiation of a program. The Space Systems RAM program provides a disciplined, deliberate planning process to analyze requirements, schedule, cost, technology, and acquisition strategy. The objective is to provide critical decision-quality cost, schedule and technical information for AF and DoD senior leaders to support their acquisition decisions for the annual space investment portfolio and initiating high-confidence acquisition programs. RAM activities will include science and technology planning, concept and architecture development, acquisition strategy baselining, modeling and simulation, cost analysis, and the pre-planning required for successful demonstration and validation of prototypes and system-of-systems demonstrations. Activities will focus on delivering long-term, integrated, permanent space warfighting capabilities to the Combatant Commands. The Space Systems RAM will provide the capability to assess the performance, or cost reduction potential, of advanced technology in a near-realistic operational environment, and a rapid transition of capabilities to the warfighter. RAM will assess technology readiness levels for systems prior to key acquisition decision points. Specifically, RAM will mitigate risk before a program is sent to Engineering and Manufacturing Development/Systems Design and Development and will provide the government a cost baseline prior to commitment to a full acquisition program. RAM is a new and comprehensive approach that will ensure adequate oversight and coordination of previously unconsolidated materiel studies, analyses, and development. System-of-systems pre-acquisition planning and early systems engineering will support consolidation of previously unique system capabilities resident only within individualized program elements.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Project
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2011
Source ID
64A024_0604337F_4_3600_PB_2011

Tags

Readers

  • Defense Acquisition Program Management
  • Enterprise Information Systems Architecture and Joint Command Capability Interoperability Support.
  • Life Cycle Cost Analysis

Technology Areas

  • Space

Related Documents