Leader/follower second sourcing strategy as implemented by the joint Cruise Missile Project Office.

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the Thompson- Rubenstein Leader/Follower Second Sourcing (t-R L/F) Model. The Model is applied to four acquisitions managed by the Joint Cruise Missile Project Office (JCMPO) . The study reviews current DOD second sourcing acquisition policy and directives, and discusses alternate second sourcing techniques with emphasis on the Leader/Follower technique. The results of this research indicate that the T-R L/F Model does not adequately address: (1) the competitive nature of the Aerospace Industry, (2) the timing of the second sourcing planning in relation to the Major Weapon System Acquisition Process, (3) the acquisition of technical data rights, and (4) L/F implementation variables. The researcher proposes an alternate Model based on the experiences of the JCMPO acquisitions. This Model will, most likely, be more valuable to a Program Manager dealing with the Aerospace Industry since it is based on aerospace acquisitions.