Using a Modular Open Systems Approach in Defense Acquisitions: Implications for the Contracting Process

Many of the Department of Defense's (DoD) future warfighting capabilities are being acquired through the development of system of systems. These systems of systems are being developed and acquired using an evolutionary acquisition approach. Integral to both systems of systems and evolutionary acquisition is the use of a modular open systems approach (MOSA) for the design, development and acquisition of these weapon systems. MOSA is considered an enabler to both systems of systems engineering as well as evolutionary acquisition. This research explores the use of the modular open systems approach (MOSA) as a method for implementing an evolutionary' acquisition strategy as well as the implications of using such an approach on the contracting process. A background on evolutionary acquisition is provided highlighting the benefit of rapid development and production of weapon systems incrementally, with each increment providing an increasing level of capability. The contractual implications of using a modular open systems approach are then discussed, focusing on each of the six phases of the procurement process. The research then conclude with the identification of characteristics of a successful MOSA program procurement and resulting contract.