Getting the Warfighter What They Need and When They Need It
Abstract
Although it is unfair to compare the F-22 and MRAP vehicle acquisitions based upon weapon system complexity, urgent need, streamlined acquisition processes, and supplemental Congressional funding, the MRAP example clearly points to the governments ability to quickly procure military weapon systems when required. These rapid acquisition processes are slowly being institutionalized throughout the services to meet urgent needs for our warfighters in the face a rapidly evolving threat. Currently, each service and combatant command has their own rapid acquisition process. The Defense Science Board completed a study in July 2009, which stated, "Current approaches to implement rapid responses to urgent needs were found to be unsustainable, and institutional barriers-people, funding, and processes-are power inhibitors to successful rapid acquisition and fielding of new capabilities." The study found rapid acquisition processes should be based on proven technology to deliver capability to the warfighter within two to twenty-four months. The study also recommended, "DoD should establish a streamlined, integrated approach for rapid acquisition." Finding a rapid acquisition standard for all services is the focus this paper. My thesis is Special Operations Commands (SOCOM) rapid acquisition process offers a rapid acquisition benchmark, which should be adopted throughout the military. SOCOMs rapid acquisition process could be used to acquire a limited major weapon system (e.g. a light attack aircraft) in less than two years.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 17, 2010
- Accession Number
- AD1018551
Entities
People
- Carl E. Schaefer
Organizations
- Air War College