Weapon System Acquisition Managment. A Viable Career Program for the Unrestricted Line Aviation Officer

The problem of obtaining unrestricted line aviation officers with the requisite experience and education to serve as Project Managers has plagued the Navys Weapon Systems Acquisition Management Program since its inception. This research is directed at identifying the causes of this problem. The conflicts and constraints resulting from the integration of Weapon Systems Acquisition Management subspecialty development program with the warfare specialty development program of the unrestricted line aviation officer are identified. Recommendations are made for the achievements of a viable career development program that will aid in the development of true professionalism in the area of weapon systems development and acquisition.