Accession Number:

ADA561513

Title:

Sustaining Equipment and the Rapid Acquisition Process: The Forgotten Phase

Descriptive Note:

Research paper

Corporate Author:

ARMY WAR COLL CARLISLE BARRACKS PA

Personal Author(s):

• Whitson, Anthony K.

Report Date:

2012-02-24

Pagination or Media Count:

30.0

Abstract:

The ability to integrate the acquisition process with sustainment operations during major combat operations MCO over the last 10 years in Iraq and Afghanistan fell short of requirements and expectations. To enable the rapid fielding of critical pieces of equipment to the warfighter, the joint force will require advance design planning, continuous monitoring, and more importantly, a system in place well ahead of our next MCO. The intent of this paper is to identify sustainment phase shortfalls in the acquisition process during Operation Enduring Freedom OEF and Operation Iraqi Freedom OIF as they relate to equipment fielding during combat operations. The United States Armys senior leaders focus during both OEF and OIF, was, rightfully so, on warfighter needs, technological opportunities, Pre-Systems Acquisition, Systems Acquisition, and not on sustainment, operations, or support. This paper will examine the current Department of Defense DoD sustainment systems and the agents responsible within the Armys defense acquisition process and consider options to ensure that we design and implement the right policy, strategy, and sustainment concepts before the next conflict.

Descriptors:

• *AFGHANISTAN CONFLICT
• *ARMY EQUIPMENT
• *ARMY PROCUREMENT
• *IRAQI WAR
• *LIFE CYCLE MANAGEMENT
• *LOGISTICS SUPPORT
• *MAINTENANCE
• *OPERATIONAL READINESS
• COUNTERINSURGENCY
• DEFICIENCIES
• DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
• MINE RESISTANT VEHICLES
• PERFORMANCE(ENGINEERING)
• PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Subject Categories:

• Logistics, Military Facilities and Supplies
• Unconventional Warfare

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE