Schedule Risks Associated with Middle Tier Acquisition

Abstract

Major defense acquisition programs take about 8 years to proceed from program initiation to an initial operational capability. Recent changes created Middle Tier Acquisition programs intended to deliver capabilities and products in less than 5 years. This research defines schedule risk as the likelihood of exceeding a duration. We developed quantitative models to identify significant factors and relationships. This report summarizes our approach and presents modeled results associated with Middle Tier Acquisitions. Program offices must concurrently adapt to both emergent guidance and programmatic realities. This research contributes to the understanding of the risks and opportunities associated with recent Middle Tier Acquisitions. The research results will be useful to program offices and acquisition leadership in executing current and future rapid acquisition programs.