Capabilities Centric Acquisition: A System of Systems View of Acquisition Management

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to begin a discussion on the need and complexity of managing the material acquisition process from a capability focused perspective. As warfighters develop doctrine, tactics, techniques, and procedures for the current and future fight, they do so from a joint and combined arms perspective. Battlespace success is viewed from the combined effects of multiple systems providing a synchronized force multiplier for the Commander. Conversely, our acquisition process remains trapped in a historical paradigm designed to meet Cold War requirements. This paper does not intend on offering the solution. This is merely a thought piece on perspectives from someone who is challenged daily with the opportunity of developing a capability management process for integrating future capability into the current force organizational construct.