The impact of changes in DoD policy on reliability and sustainment

Taxpayer and Congressional confidence in the ability of the Department of Defense (DoD) to acquire and sustain effective, affordable weapons has been seriously undermined by failed procurements such as the US Air Force Tanker procurement, Government Accountability Office (GAO) reports documenting major delays in schedule and cost overruns, and internal DoD assessments that systems do not meet requirements and are not deployable. The Weapons Systems Acquisition Reform Act of 2009 and updated policy have strengthened Pentagon oversight and accountability for schedule and cost control. Revitalized Systems Engineering processes are in place to reduce risk. A Sustainment Key Performance Parameter provides for early design influence to meet operational needs and reduce ownership costs. Reconstitution of an adequately staffed, trained and experienced workforce is underway.