Lessons Learned from a Successful Non-Developmental Item (NDI) Fielding: Mobile Subscriber Equipment
Abstract
Mobile Subscriber Equipment (MSE) is the Army's new tactical communications system for Corps and below. MSE is the best example of a successful NDI buy and this paper looks at some of the 'lessons learned' from the program. MSE is the largest NDI acquisition the Army has made. It was able to proceed from a 1983 decision to go with an NDI acquisition to award of a contract in 1985. MSE was fielded to the 1st Cavalry Division in February 1987. This is excellent when compared to the normal 10-15 year acquisition cycle. With an NDI system, many of the standard life cycle phases and decision points were changed and/or modified. The formation of a HQDA MSE Action Plan (DAMAP) created a forum for recurring access to the VCSA for problem resolution/decision and greatly assisted in making MSE a success. GTE is the primary contractor for MSE, and as such provided not only the communications system, but the trucks, generators, training (both new systems training and initial entry training), manuals, and a complete logistical support package--a true 'total Package fielding'. After successful completion of the Follow-on Test and Evaluation in October 1988, subsequent contracts were signed to purchase MSE for all of III, V, VII and XVIII Airborne Corps. Fielding is to both AC and RC units and will be done by Corps to insure communications interoperability.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA223169
Entities
People
- Robert L. Forrester
Organizations
- United States Army War College