Analysis of modular open systems approach (MOSA): implementation in Navy Acquisition programs

Abstract

This research attempts to use the Navy Enterprise Open Architecture Assessment Tool (OAAT) findings as a method for analyzing the US Navy's implementation of a Modular Systems Approach (MOSA) in its weapon systems acquisition programs. The purpose of this research paper to provide a preliminary analysis of assessments conducted on Navy weapon system acquisition programs using the Navy Enterprise Open Architecture Assessment Tool (OAAT). The OAAT is used to assess a weapon system's degree of openness in terms of the open architecture maturity of that specific weapon system program and its systems. Openness refers to both business and technical characteristics of weapon systems that support modular design, interoperability, and commercial standards. A higher degree of openness both supports weapon system programs in terms of competition for development and support, as well as facilitates rapid technology insertion. Although the number of weapon system programs and system assessments analyzed in this research are minimal, this paper does provide some preliminary conclusions on the Navy's implementation of a Modular Systems Approach (MOSA) in its weapon systems acquisition programs.