A methodological approach for conducting a business case analysis of the Global Observer Joint Capability Technology Demonstration (JCTD)

Abstract

The Global Observer is a Joint Capability Technology Demonstration (JCTD) initiative that is being managed by the United States Special Operations Command (US SOCOM). The JCTD Program seeks to accelerate the development and operational evaluation of mature advanced technologies to rapidly transition the new capability to military operations. The Global Observer is a liquid-hydrogen powered unmanned aircraft system that has been designed for deployment as a stratospheric satellite. It will provide an affordable, persistent presence over any designated area of interest for surveillance and communications relay missions. The purpose of this study is to analyze the cost savings, as well as the other benefits associated with the operational deployment of the Global Observer. This thesis will (1) Develop a model for performing business case analyses of JCTDs, including defining the methodical structure required in the business case report; and (2) Conduct the Global Observer JCTD business case analysis, including a baseline analysis and a comprehensive sensitivity analysis based on a developed operational scenario with 6 designated areas of operations, while comparing the performance with an existing analogous system, i.e., the RQ-4 Global Hawk.