Impact of new DoD directives on Marine Corps acquisition policy at Milestone IV

Abstract

This thesis is an investigation of the new DoD directives concerning acquisition policy and procedures at Milestone IV. This thesis begins with background material concerning the Marine Corps acquisition process and the organizational structure of the Marine Corps Research Acquisition and Development Command. An analysis of how other Services view the activities at milestone IV is presented to provide a basis to evaluate the Marine Corps' procedural approach to a logistic review of fielded systems. Adequate evidence is cited to establish the difference between a Principal End Item Management Transfer and a Milestone IV Review. An examination of the nature, characteristics and requirements for a Fielded System Logistics Review and a Major Modification Review are presented. Procedures are developed accordingly, based on this study, and are recommended for implementation by the Marine Corps for Fielded Systems Logistics Review and for a Major Modification Review and its subsequent approval.