The French Weapon Acquisition Process
Abstract
The characteristics of the French weapon acquisition process reflect the national policy of self-sufficiency in defense matters, severe resource constraints, limited domestic weapons market, and the unique characteristics of the French political and industrial system. The study describes the organization and activities of the Delegation Ministerielle Pour l'Armement (DMA), the centralized organization formed to consolidate all weapon procurement activities of the three services. A detailed weapon life cycle model is provided which depicts the methods used to generate pragmatic requirements and reduce uncertainty anc costs while producing responsive weapon development programs. An analysis of DMA in-house activities as well as the general characteristics of the defense industry is presented. Government consolidation of the French defense industry (to reduce duplication) is shown to have virtually eliminated competition other than that experienced in international weapons sales. Firm government (i.e., DMA) control of all defense activities (in-house, nationalized, and private) is noted.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1974
- Accession Number
- AD0785081
Entities
People
- James W. Sterling
Organizations
- United States Army Foreign Science and Technology Center