An Appraisal of the Current Methodologies DoD Uses to Identify Critical Defense Industrial Base Capabilities.

Abstract : The main purpose of this research is to do an appraisal of the methodologies utilized by the Department of Defense (DOD) and the military Services to evaluate and manage the defense industrial base. The appraisal will test the hypothesis that DOD is capable of identifying the critical defense industrial base capabilities that the United States must have to accomplish its National Security objectives in the 21st century. The current processes used in each Service and DOD will be evaluated for their effectiveness in managing the defense industrial base to date, and how effective they would be in the future. The effects of the government structure and culture, and the political and economic situation on the current methods will also be looked at since they are major influencing factors in the government's decision making and resource allocation processes. Recommendations addressing the deficiencies discovered in the processes will be presented in the hopes of improving the defense industrial base of tomorrow. (KAR) P. 1