An analysis of the transition of the Objective Individual Combat Weapon (OICW) from advanced technology demonstration to acquisition program

Abstract

The OICW is envisioned to be a lightweight, shoulder-fired weapon having a dual munitions capability and an advanced day/night fire control. The OICW is expected to provide substantial improvements in lethality over the predecessor rifle and carbine families of weapons. The Office of the Program Manager for Small Arms assessed the OICW Advanced Technology Demonstration process and program progress in 1998 and concluded the ATD process did not accomplish/address the actions that are necessary prior to entering engineering and manufacturing development. This thesis examines how the ATD process could be improved to better improve similar, subsequent weapon systems from inculcating risk that endangers the program.