The Middle Tier of Acquisition: Speed vs. Rigor : Defense Acquisition University , April 2 , 2024
The Middle Tier of Acquisition: Speed vs. Rigor : Defense Acquisition University , April 2 , 2024
From the document: “As the pace of global technological innovation accelerates, maintaining military advantage depends more than ever on rapidly transitioning emerging technologies into operational capabilities. This qualitative study examines the effectiveness of the Middle Tier of Acquisition (MTA) pathway, implemented in 2015 legislation, in delivering timely, relevant military capabilities. The MTA was established to prototype and field systems to address critical capability gaps and evolve platforms at the speed of relevance. Though still a relatively new acquisition instrument, the MTA has demonstrated the ability to streamline rapid prototyping and fielding to counter rising state adversaries. However, recent legislation threatens constraints that could undermine the original expedited intent of MTA authority. This study explores the origins, objectives, and outcomes of MTA implementation through policy reviews, practitioner perspectives, and oversight studies. Findings indicate the MTA meets intended goals of agility and pace, but faces challenges in transparency and integration with other acquisition pathways. Recommendations focus on improving MTA cost estimation and reporting while sustaining MTA’s essential responsive advantages. Additional oversight is warranted, but should not sacrifice speed or flexibility. Further research can evaluate long-term MTA performance as more programs reach maturity.”
Authors - Webster, James D.Related Resources
