Study of the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Vehicle Program as a Model for Rapid Defense Acquisitions

Abstract

The purpose of this MBA Project is to analyze the procedures followed in the acquisition of the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle. The MRAP program, initiated in response to the improvised explosive device (IED) threat in Iraq and Afghanistan, is unprecedented in timeline and scale. As such, it provides a unique case study on the rapid acquisition of a major military system in response to an urgent operational need. The objective of this research is to provide a guide for future rapid acquisition programs by documenting the conduct of the MRAP program from the initial needs identification and program start in 2006 through production and fielding at the time of this writing. The major analysis will focus on the program as a rapid acquisition within the context of the Acquisition Management and Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System (JCIDS) framework. The goal for analysis is to answer the following question: What are the key factors and decisions that contributed to program success, with success defined as meeting program objectives and warfighter needs? In addition, this report will address the key trade-offs made within the MRAP program and the potential long-term impacts of these decisions.