Department of Defense Weapon System Acquisition Policy: A System Dynamics Model and Analysis.

A dynamic policy model of the DoD acquisition system has been developed and tested. The model provides a broad-based structure of the weapon acquisition system that can be used as a base for the testing and evaluation of alternative acquisition policies. Sources of information used in model development include both literature research and personal interviews with DoD, Air Force, Congressional, and OMB personnel active in the operation and analysis of the acquisition system. The model structure is built around a system goal of providing approximate parity in total capability, in the aggregate, of operational US and Soviet weapon systems. Emphasis is placed on the dynamic relationships within the acquisition system and how they are impacted by DoD policy and external pressures. Use of the model for policy analysis provides information on trends within the acquisition system as policy implementations or changes are tested.