[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 3838 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. R. 3838
To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2026 for military
activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and
for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe
military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other
purposes.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
June 9, 2025
Mr. Rogers of Alabama (for himself and Mr. Smith of Washington)
introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on
Armed Services
_______________________________________________________________________
A BILL
To authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2026 for military
activities of the Department of Defense, for military construction, and
for defense activities of the Department of Energy, to prescribe
military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other
purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Streamlining
Procurement for Effective Execution and Delivery Act of 2025'' or the
``SPEED Act''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as
follows:
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
TITLE I--ALIGNING ACQUISITION TO WARFIGHTER PRIORITIES AND OPERATIONAL
OUTCOMES
Sec. 101. Alignment of the defense acquisition system with the needs of
members of the Armed Forces.
Sec. 102. Program executive officer responsibilities.
Sec. 103. Major capability activity areas and pathfinder programs.
Sec. 104. Product support manager responsibilities and requirements.
Sec. 105. Amendments to life-cycle management and product support.
Sec. 106. Navy Senior Technical Authority.
TITLE II--ACCELERATING THE REQUIREMENTS PROCESS
Sec. 201. Joint Requirements Council.
Sec. 202. Establishment of the Requirements, Acquisition, and
Programming Integration Directorate.
Sec. 203. Establishment of the Mission Engineering and Integration
Activity.
TITLE III--STRIKING THE BALANCE BETWEEN REGULATION AND EFFICIENCY
Sec. 301. Matters related to Department of Defense use of cost
accounting standards.
Sec. 302. Review of commercial buying practices.
Sec. 303. Adjustments to certain acquisition thresholds.
Sec. 304. Alternative capability-based pricing.
Sec. 305. Clarification of conditions for payments for commercial
products and commercial services.
TITLE IV--STRENGTHENING THE DEFENSE INDUSTRIAL BASE AND LEVERAGING
COMMERCIAL INNOVATION
Sec. 401. Defense Industrial Resilience Consortium.
Sec. 402. Amendment to other transaction authority.
Sec. 403. Data-as-a-service solutions for weapon system contracts.
Sec. 404. Requirements for modular open system approach and
modifications to rights in technical data.
Sec. 405. Qualification, acceptance, and supply chain management of
products manufactured using advanced
manufacturing.
Sec. 406. Amendments to the procurement technical assistance program.
Sec. 407. Report on surge capacity in the defense industrial base.
Sec. 408. Bridging Operational Objectives and Support for Transition
program.
TITLE V--DEVELOPING A MISSION-ORIENTED DEFENSE ACQUISITION WORKFORCE
Sec. 501. Report on strengthening the Defense Acquisition University.
Sec. 502. Comptroller General review of the management, training, and
development of the acquisition workforce.
Sec. 503. Comptroller General review of matters relating to individuals
assigned to a critical acquisition
position.
TITLE I--ALIGNING ACQUISITION TO WARFIGHTER PRIORITIES AND OPERATIONAL
OUTCOMES
SEC. 101. ALIGNMENT OF THE DEFENSE ACQUISITION SYSTEM WITH THE NEEDS OF
MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES.
(a) Implementation.--Not later than 30 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall revise Department
of Defense Directive 5000.01 and any other relevant instructions,
policies, or guidance to carry out the requirements of this section and
the amendments made by this section.
(b) Objectives of Defense Acquisition System.--
(1) In general.--Section 3102 of title 10, United States
Code, is amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 3102. Objectives of the defense acquisition system
``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the
defense acquisition system exists to expeditiously provide the Armed
Forces with the capabilities necessary to operate effectively, to
address evolving threats, and to maintain the military advantage of the
United States in the most cost-effective manner practicable.
``(b) Guidance.--The Secretary of Defense shall issue guidance to
carry out subsection (a) that requires the following:
``(1) All activities of the defense acquisition system
contribute to the expeditious delivery of capabilities to
enhance the operational readiness of the Armed Forces and
enable the missions of the Department of Defense.
``(2) The defense acquisition system maximizes the
effective use of resources by delivering capabilities that
offer the best value for the investment made in each
capability.
``(3) The defense acquisition system encourages and
supports the integration of innovative solutions to enhance
military effectiveness and responsiveness to emerging threats.
``(4) The defense acquisition system encourages an
iterative approach to designing and testing technical solutions
to enable early identification of solutions that do not deliver
desired results.
``(5) The defense acquisition system supports a leadership
and organizational structure that encourages risk-taking,
collaboration, and learning through failure.
``(6) The training and development of members of the
acquisition workforce ensures that such members have the skills
to effectively manage acquisition activities in accordance with
this section.''.
(2) Conforming amendments.--
(A) Under secretary of defense for acquisition and
sustainment.--Section 133b(b) of title 10, United
States Code, is amended--
(i) in paragraph (1), by striking
``delivering and sustaining timely, cost-
effective capabilities for the Armed Forces
(and the Department)'' and inserting
``expeditiously providing the Armed Forces with
the capabilities necessary to operate
effectively, to address evolving threats, and
to maintain the military advantage of the
United States in the most cost-effective manner
practicable''; and
(ii) in paragraph (9)(A), by striking
``defense acquisition programs'' and inserting
``the defense acquisition system, in accordance
with the objectives established pursuant to
section 3102''.
(B) Director of operational test and evaluation.--
Section 139(b) of title 10, United States Code, is
amended--
(i) by redesignating paragraphs (1) through
(6) as paragraphs (2) through (7),
respectively; and
(ii) by inserting before paragraph (2), as
so redesignated, the following new paragraph:
``(1) ensure that all operational test and evaluation
activities are aligned with, and are conducted in a manner that
supports, the objectives of the defense acquisition system
established pursuant to section 3102 of this title;''.
(C) Director of cost assessment and program
evaluation.--Section 139a(d) of title 10, United States
Code, is amended by inserting ``shall carry out the
requirements of this section in accordance with the
objectives established pursuant to section 3102 of this
title and'' before ``shall serve''.
(c) Civilian Management of the Defense Acquisition System.--Section
3103 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by striking ``to ensure the
successful and efficient operation of the defense acquisition
system'' and inserting ``in accordance with the objectives of
the defense acquisition system established pursuant to section
3102 of this title''; and
(2) in subsection (b), by striking ``to ensure the
successful and efficient operation of such elements of the
defense acquisition system.'' and inserting the following: ``in
accordance with the objectives of the defense acquisition
system established pursuant to section 3102 of this title. In
carrying out this subsection, each service acquisition
executive shall perform the following:
``(1) Implement strategies to effectively and efficiently
respond to changes in capability requirements.
``(2) Use data-driven decisionmaking to manage trade-offs
among life-cycle costs, delivery schedules, performance
objectives, technical feasibility, and procurement quantity
objectives to ensure acquisition and sustainment programs
deliver the best value for the investment made in the program.
``(3) Use iterative development cycles and discontinue or
terminate the development of capabilities--
``(A) that no longer align with approved capability
requirements or priorities; or
``(B) are experiencing significant cost growth,
performance deficiencies, or delays in schedule.
``(4) Ensure the period of assignment of an individual
serving in a critical acquisition position (as defined in
section 1731 of this title) is of sufficient duration to ensure
the development and use of acquired expertise, institutional
capacity, accountability in decisionmaking, and stability in
the oversight and management of acquisition activities.
``(5) Ensure that contracting officers are appropriately
trained and assigned to support effective contract
management.''.
(d) Acquisition-Related Functions of Chiefs of the Armed Forces.--
(1) Performance of certain acquisition-related functions.--
Section 3104(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(A) by inserting ``, in accordance with the
objectives established pursuant to section 3102 of this
title,'' after ``Secretary of the military department
concerned''; and
(B) by amending paragraphs (1) through (7) to read
as follows:
``(1) The development of capability requirement statements
for equipping the armed force concerned that--
``(A) describe the operational problem to provide
necessary context for the capability requirement; and
``(B) describe the solution sought in a non-
prescriptive manner to allow agile and innovative
capability development to address the operational
problem;
``(2) The implementation of strategies to effectively and
efficiently inform recommendations regarding changes in
capability requirements described in paragraph (1).
``(3) The recommendation of trade-offs among life-cycle
costs, delivery schedules, performance objectives, technical
feasibility, and procurement quantity objectives to ensure
acquisition programs deliver the best value for the investment
made.
``(4) In consultation with the Joint Requirements Council,
the establishment and prioritization of requirements to
expeditiously provide the Armed Forces with the capabilities
needed to operate effectively, to address evolving threats, and
to maintain the military advantage of the United States.
``(5) The use of data-driven decision making to prioritize
resource allocation to meet operational readiness requirements
(as defined in section 4322 of this title) and the materiel
readiness objectives established by the Secretary of the
military department concerned under section 118(c) of this
title.
``(6) Support for an environment that enables the adoption
and integration of innovative solutions and technologies to
enhance military effectiveness and responsiveness.
``(7) Any recommendation for the termination of the
development of capabilities--
``(A) that no longer align with approved capability
requirements or priorities;
``(B) for which costs have significantly increased;
or
``(C) for which schedule delays have been
significant.
``(8) Support for the development of career paths in
acquisition for military personnel (as required by section
1722a of this title) to ensure such personnel have the
necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to fulfill the
objectives established pursuant to section 3102 of this
title.''.
(2) Adherence to requirements in major defense acquisition
programs.--Section 3104(b) of title 10, United States Code, is
amended--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``program
capability document supporting a Milestone B or
subsequent decision'' and inserting ``requirements
documents''; and
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by striking
``prior to entry into the Materiel Solution
Analysis Phase under Department of Defense
Instruction 5000.02''; and
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking
``cost, schedule, technical feasibility, and
performance trade-offs'' and inserting ``life-
cycle cost, delivery schedule, performance
objective, technical feasibility, and
procurement quantity trade-offs''.
(3) Definitions.--Section 3104(d) of title 10, United
States Code, is amended to read as follows:
``(d) Requirements Document Defined.--In this section, the term
`requirements document' means a document that establishes the need for
a materiel approach to resolve a capability requirement or a joint
capability requirement (as such terms are defined in section 181 of
this title).''.
(e) Technical Amendments.--
(1) Section 3101 of title 10, United States Code, is
amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 3101. Definitions
``In this chapter:
``(1) The term `best value' means, with respect to an
acquisition, the optimal combination of cost, quality,
technical capability or solution quality, and delivery
schedule.
``(2) The term `capability requirement' has the meaning
provided in section 181 of this title.
``(3) The term `cost-effective' means, with respect to an
acquisition, the capacity to deliver better results for the
same or lower cost compared to alternatives.''.
(2) Section 3001(c) of title 10, United States Code, is
amended by striking ``this section'' and inserting ``this
part''.
SEC. 102. PROGRAM EXECUTIVE OFFICER RESPONSIBILITIES.
(a) In General.--Subchapter III of chapter 87 of title 10, United
States Code, is amended by inserting after section 1731 the following
new section:
``Sec. 1732. Program executive officer
``(a) In General.--A program executive officer is the senior
official responsible for the oversight of the plans, budgets, and
execution of the programs assigned to the portfolio of such senior
official, including life-cycle management.
``(b) Objectives.--In carrying out the activities described in
subsection (a), the program executive officer shall seek to achieve the
following objectives:
``(1) Expeditiously provide the Armed Forces with the
capabilities needed to operate effectively, address evolving
threats, and maintain the military advantage of the United
States in the most cost-effective manner practicable.
``(2) Maximize the effective use of resources by delivering
capabilities that offer the best value for the investment made
in each capability.
``(3) Enable the integration of innovative solutions and
technologies to enhance military effectiveness and
responsiveness to emerging threats.
``(c) Specific Responsibilities.--
``(1) In general.--For the programs assigned to the
portfolio of a program executive officer, such program
executive officer shall be responsible for the following:
``(A) Provide expeditious delivery of the
capabilities necessary to effectively respond to
national security challenges by overseeing the
procurement, development, and sustainment of defense
acquisition programs assigned to the program executive
officer.
``(B) Ensure the cost-effective allocation of
resources by delivering operational capabilities.
``(C) Adjust requirements, other than requirements
that are established as key performance parameters, to
maximize the agility and speed in program execution in
accordance with the objectives described in subsection
(b).
``(D) Use iterative development cycles and
discontinue or terminate the development of
capabilities--
``(i) that no longer align with approved
capability requirements (as defined in section
181 of this title) or priorities; or
``(ii) that are experiencing significant
cost growth, performance deficiencies, or
delays in schedule.
``(E) Evaluate and implement trade-offs among life-
cycle costs, delivery schedules, performance
objectives, technical feasibility, and procurement
quantity objectives to ensure acquisition and
sustainment programs deliver the best value in meeting
capability requirements (as defined in section 181 of
this title).
``(F) Use data-driven decisionmaking to prioritize
resource allocation to meet operational readiness
requirements and materiel readiness objectives
established by the Secretary concerned under section
118(c) of this title.
``(G) Collaborate with the Mission Engineering and
Integration Activity established under section 203 of
the SPEED Act to conduct cross-service technical and
operational activities to integrate emerging
technologies, prototypes, and operational concepts, as
appropriate.
``(H) Provide support to the Requirements,
Acquisition, and Programming Integration Directorate
with respect to the performance of the responsibilities
of the Directorate under section 186 of this title and
serve as a member of the Directorate in accordance with
such section.
``(2) Milestone decision authority duties.--A program
executive officer shall be the milestone decision authority for
a program when directed by the service acquisition executive of
the military department that is managing the program or if
designated by the Secretary of Defense.
``(d) Functional Support.--The Secretary concerned with respect to
a program executive officer shall ensure that there is assigned to such
program executive officer the personnel and other resources required
for such program executive officer to successfully perform the assigned
duties and responsibilities of such program executive officer,
including--
``(1) contracting and contract management;
``(2) estimating costs;
``(3) financial management;
``(4) life-cycle management and product support;
``(5) program management;
``(6) engineering and technical management; and
``(7) developmental testing and evaluation.''.
(b) Amendment to Definitions.--Section 1737(a)(4) of title 10,
United Stated Code, is amended to read as follows:
``(4) The term `program executive officer' means an
individual described in section 1732(a).''.
SEC. 103. MAJOR CAPABILITY ACTIVITY AREAS AND PATHFINDER PROGRAMS.
(a) Transition Plan Required.--
(1) Submission of plan.--Not later than one year after the
date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in
coordination with each Secretary of a military department,
shall submit to the congressional defense committees a
comprehensive plan for organizing the programs assigned to the
portfolio of a program executive officer of the Department of
Defense in a manner primarily organized around major capability
activity areas (``MCAAs'').
(2) Elements of the plan.--The plan required under
paragraph (1) shall be developed to more effectively facilitate
the development, fielding, operation, sustainment, and
modernization of capabilities of the Department of Defense in
accordance with the objectives established pursuant to section
3102 of title 10, United States Code (as added by section 101
of this Act). Such plan shall include the following:
(A) A description of each proposed MCAA, including
how the specific capability of the Department of
Defense that is the subject of each MCAA aligns with
and supports joint military capabilities.
(B) A proposed schedule, including benchmarks, for
phased implementation of the plan to organize the
programs of each military department and Defense Agency
in a manner primarily organized around MCAAs.
(C) Recommendations for statutory or regulatory
changes needed to facilitate the reorganization of
program executive offices to be primarily organized
around MCAAs.
(D) A strategy to preserve accountability for the
delivery of a capability of the Department of Defense
that is the subject of the proposed MCAA and to enable
effective oversight of the proposed MCAA by the
congressional defense committees.
(E) A description of the process for designating a
Pathfinder under subsection (b).
(3) Organization by mcaas.--
(A) In general.--In organizing programs in a manner
primarily organized around MCAAs under this subsection,
the Secretary shall--
(i) organize each proposed MCAA in a
capability-oriented structure that reflects the
unique and specific aspects of the subject
capability of the MCAA;
(ii) assign relevant development,
procurement, operations, and sustainment
activities of the Department to the proposed
MCAA as appropriate; and
(iii) ensure each proposed MCAA is
organized in a manner that--
(I) will improve the ability to
measure and manage the overall
performance in the delivery of the
subject capability of the proposed
MCAA; and
(II) connects amounts authorized
for activities assigned to the proposed
MCAA to the delivery of subject
capability.
(B) Flexibility.--The Secretary of Defense shall
ensure each military department and Defense Agency has
flexibility, according to their specific mission
requirements, in the organization of proposed MCAAs.
(b) Designation of Pathfinder MCAAs.--
(1) Designation.--Not later than 90 days after the date of
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall--
(A) designate at least two program executive
offices of the Department of Defense to be known as
``Pathfinders'';
(B) identify the program executive officer with the
responsibility of administering each such Pathfinder;
(C) ensure each such program executive officer
organizes the programs assigned to such offices into a
MCAA in accordance with the requirements of subsection
(a)(3); and
(D) submit to the congressional defense committees
a notification of each designation made under
subparagraph (A), including the total amount authorized
to carry out each Pathfinder for fiscal year 2026 and a
description of the MCAA associated with each
Pathfinder.
(2) Modified transfer authority for pathfinders.--
(A) Authority.--The Secretary of Defense, acting
through a Secretary of a military department or the
head of a Defense Agency, may transfer amounts
authorized for programs, projects, or activities that
are included in a Pathfinder under the jurisdiction of
such Secretary or head among such programs, projects,
or activities.
(B) Limitations.--A transfer made under this
paragraph--
(i) shall directly support delivery of the
capability of the Department of Defense that is
the subject of the Pathfinder;
(ii) may not be used to initiate a new
start program (as described in section 3601 of
title 10, United States Code);
(iii) may not be used to terminate a
program or activity of the Department that was
in operation on or before the date of the
designation of the Pathfinder; and
(iv) may not exceed 40 percent of the total
amount authorized to carry out a Pathfinder
specified under paragraph (1)(D).
(3) Additional pathfinders.--The Secretary of Defense may
designate additional MCAAs as Pathfinders under the authority
of this subsection if the Secretary notifies the congressional
defense committees not later than 15 days prior to each such
designation.
(c) Report to Congress.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 540 days after the date of
the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter until
December 31, 2029, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the
congressional defense committees a report assessing the
effectiveness of the use of a capability-oriented structure in
subsection (a)(3) and Pathfinders in subsection (b) to--
(A) improve the ability to measure and manage the
overall performance in the delivery of the subject
capability of the proposed MCAA or Pathfinder;
(B) inform and improve program management and
planning for future activities assigned to the proposed
MCAA or Pathfinder for the delivery of subject
capability; and
(C) achieve the objectives of the defense
acquisition system established pursuant to section 3102
of title 10, United States Code (as added by section
101 of this Act).
(2) Contents.--The report required under paragraph (1)
shall include the following:
(A) The extent to which the use of MCAAs and use of
the transfer authority under subsection (b)(2) for
Pathfinders affect the speed of addressing emerging
threats and adopting new technologies.
(B) An analysis of any costs or benefits of using
MCAAs.
(C) Recommendations, including statutory or
regulatory modifications, for--
(i) expanding the use of Pathfinders; and
(ii) continuing the transition to using
MCAAs.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``major capability activity area'' or ``MCAA''
means a compilation of activities that relate to the delivery
of a capability of the Department of Defense, as determined by
the Secretary of Defense.
(2) The term ``joint military capabilities'' has the
meaning given in section 181 of title 10, United States Code,
as amended by section 201 of this Act.
(3) The term ``program executive officer'' has the meaning
given in section 1732 of title 10, United States Code, as added
by section 102 of this Act.
SEC. 104. PRODUCT SUPPORT MANAGER RESPONSIBILITIES AND REQUIREMENTS.
(a) In General.--Subchapter III of chapter 87 of title 10, United
States Code, is amended by inserting after section 1732 (as added by
section 102 of this Act) the following new section:
``Sec. 1733. Product support manager
``(a) In General.--A product support manager is the individual
responsible for managing support functions required to field and
maintain the readiness and operational capability of a covered system
in support of the life-cycle management responsibilities of the program
manager for such covered system.
``(b) Objectives.--In carrying out the activities described in
subsection (a), the product support manager shall seek to achieve the
objectives of the defense acquisition system established pursuant to
section 3102 of this title.
``(c) Specific Responsibilities.--A product support manager shall
be responsible for the following:
``(1) Provide product support and subject matter expertise
with respect to a covered system to the program manager for the
covered system to assist with the development, resourcing,
implementation, and execution of the product support strategy
developed by the product support manager under section 4322 of
this title for the covered system.
``(2) Collaborate with the chief engineer and systems
engineers for the covered system--
``(A) to develop the life-cycle sustainment plan
and any product support plans for the covered system;
and
``(B) to analyze the operating and support costs of
the covered system to ensure the cost-effective
operation, management, and availability of the covered
system.
``(3) Conduct early risk identification, mitigation, and
product support analyses that inform best value solutions in
life-cycle planning and management.
``(4) Provide input on systems engineering requirements,
design, budgeting, maintenance planning, and acquisition
strategies for covered systems.
``(5) Support the program manager in evaluating trade-offs
among life-cycle costs, delivery schedules, performance
objectives, technical feasibility, and procurement quantity
objectives to ensure each covered system delivers the greatest
value for the investment made in the covered system.
``(6) Use data-driven decision making, predictive analysis,
and appropriate modeling tools related to reliability and
maintainability of the covered system to prioritize resource
allocation to meet operational readiness requirements and
materiel readiness objectives (established under section 118(c)
of this title).
``(7) Support each Secretary of a military department in
performance of a core logistics analysis pursuant to section
2464 of this title.
``(d) Covered System Defined.--In this section, the term `covered
system' has the meaning given in section 4322 of this title.''.
(b) Education, Training, and Experience Requirements for Product
Support Managers.--Section 1735 title 10, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) by redesignating subsections (c), (d), and (e) as
subsections (d), (e), and (f), respectively; and
(2) by inserting after subsection (b) the following new
subsection:
``(c) Product Support Manager.--Before being assigned to a position
as product support manager, a person--
``(1) shall have completed all life-cycle logistics
certification and training requirements prescribed by the
Secretary of Defense;
``(2) shall have executed a written agreement as required
in section 1734(b)(2) of this title; and
``(3) in the case of--
``(A) a product support manager of a major defense
acquisition program, shall have at least eight years of
experience in life-cycle logistics, at least two years
of which were performed in a systems program office or
similar organization; and
``(B) a product support manager of a significant
nonmajor defense acquisition program, shall have at
least six years of experience in life-cycle
logistics.''.
(c) Conforming Amendments.--Section 1731(a)(1)(B) title 10, United
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new clause:
``(iv) Product support manager.''.
SEC. 105. AMENDMENTS TO LIFE-CYCLE MANAGEMENT AND PRODUCT SUPPORT.
(a) Reorganization of Life-Cycle and Sustainment Chapter.--
(1) In general.--Chapter 323 of title 10, United States
Code, is amended--
(A) by repealing sections 4321, 4323, and 4324;
(B) by redesignating section 4328 as section 4321
and transferring such section so as to appear after the
table of sections at the beginning of such chapter;
(C) by redesignating section 4325 as section 4323
and transferring such section so as to appear after
section 4321;
(D) in section 4323, as so redesignated, by
striking ``section 4324 of this title'' and inserting
``section 4322 of this title''; and
(E) by amending the table of sections at the
beginning of such chapter to read as follows:
``4321. Weapon system design: sustainment factors.
``4322. Life-cycle management and product support.
``4323. Major weapon systems: assessment, management, and control of
operating and support costs.''.
(2) Conforming amendments.--
(A) Section 3041(a) of title 10, United States
Code, is amended by striking ``sections 4292(e) and
4321'' and inserting ``section 4292(e)''.
(B) Section 3221(b)(2) of title 10, United States
Code, is amended by striking ``4321, 4323, and 4328 of
this title'' and inserting ``and 4321 of this title,''.
(C) Section 4211(c)(2)(D) of title 10, United
States Code, is amended by striking ``section 4324 of
this title'' and inserting ``section 4322 of this
title''.
(D) Section 4252(b)(14) of title 10, United States
Code, is amended by striking ``section 4324(b) of this
title'' and inserting ``section 4322 of this title''.
(b) Life-Cycle Management and Product Support.--Chapter 323 of
title 10, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a), is further
amended by inserting after section 4321 the following new section:
``Sec. 4322. Life-cycle management and product support
``(a) In General.--The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that each
covered system is supported by a life-cycle sustainment plan--
``(1) that is approved by the senior acquisition executive
responsible for such covered system; and
``(2) that meets applicable operational readiness
requirements and materiel readiness objectives (established
under section 118(c) of this title) in the most cost-effective
manner practicable.
``(b) Product Support Manager.--The Secretary of Defense shall
designate a product support manager (as defined in section 1733 of this
title) to serve under the supervision of a program manager for each
covered system.
``(c) Life-Cycle Sustainment Plan.--(1) A product support manager
shall develop, update, and implement a life-cycle sustainment plan for
each covered system for which the product support manager is
responsible. Such plan shall include the following:
``(A) A comprehensive product support strategy to best
achieve operational readiness requirements and materiel
readiness objectives throughout the planned life cycle of such
system.
``(B) A baseline life-cycle cost estimate for the covered
system based on the planned product support strategy described
in subparagraph (A).
``(C) Recommended engineering and design considerations
that support cost-effective sustainment of the covered system
and best value solutions in life-cycle planning and management.
``(D) An intellectual property management plan for product
support developed in accordance with section 3774 of this
title.
``(E) A strategy to maximize use of public and private
sector capabilities to establish Government-private
partnerships--
``(i) with appropriate incentives for each partner
to contribute to the achievement of operational
readiness requirements and materiel readiness
objectives in the most cost-effective manner
practicable; and
``(ii) that considers the roles of each partner as
the covered system transitions from acquisition,
development, production, fielding, sustainment, and
disposal.
``(F) A plan to transition the covered system from
production to initial fielding that addresses specific products
or services required for successful initial fielding of the
covered system, including--
``(i) a description of the necessary tooling or
other unique support equipment, requirements for
initial spare parts and components, technical handbooks
and maintenance manuals, maintenance training, and
facilities;
``(ii) an identification of the funding required to
provide such products and services for any initial
fielding location of the covered system;
``(iii) an identification of any procurement line,
program element, or subactivity group in the budget of
the Secretary concerned associated with such products
or services;
``(iv) the timeline for delivery of such products
and services; and
``(v) an assessment of any reduction in operational
readiness requirements and materiel readiness
objectives if such products and services are not
provided in accordance with clause (iv).
``(2) In developing each life-cycle sustainment plan required by
this section, the product support manager shall consider the following:
``(A) Affordability constraints and key cost factors that
could affect operating and support costs during the life cycle
of the covered system.
``(B) Sustainment risks or challenges to sustaining the
covered system in operational environments, included contested
logistics environments (as defined in section 2926 of this
title).
``(C) Compliance with--
``(i) requirements to maintain a core logistics
capability under section 2464 of this title; and
``(ii) limitations on the performance of depot-
level maintenance of materiel under section 2466 of
this title.
``(D) A defense industrial base strategy to maintain a
robust, resilient, and innovative defense industrial base to
support requirements throughout the life cycle of the covered
system.
``(d) Continuous Assessment and Active Management.--In carrying out
the duties of this section and section 1733 of this title, the product
support manager shall--
``(1) continuously assess and actively manage performance
of each covered system for which the product support manager is
responsible against the life-cycle sustainment plan for such
covered system; and
``(2) as appropriate, integrate commercial best practices,
use commercial standards, and use advanced technologies to
enhance the product support of each covered system.
``(e) Recommendations.--(1) The product support manager shall
recommend changes to the product support strategy required under
subsection (c)(1)(A) of a covered system to the program manager
responsible for such covered system to meet the requirements of
subsection (a).
``(2) The program manager shall provide to the senior acquisition
executive responsible for a covered system any recommendations for such
covered system made under paragraph (1) that the program manager did
not implement along with the rationale for not implementing such
recommendations.
``(f) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) The term `covered system' means--
``(A) a major defense acquisition program as
defined in section 4201 of this title;
``(B) a major subprogram as described in section
4203 of this title; or
``(C) an acquisition program or project that is
carried out using the rapid fielding or rapid
prototyping acquisition pathway under section 3602 of
this title that is estimated by the Secretary of
Defense to require an eventual total expenditure
described in section 4201(a)(2) of this title.
``(2) The term `operational readiness' means the capability
of a unit of the Armed Forces, vessel, weapon system, or
equipment to perform the missions or functions for which it is
organized or designed.
``(3) The term `product support' means the set of support
functions, as determined by the product support manager,
required to field and maintain the readiness and operational
capability of a covered system, or a subsystem or component of
a covered system.''.
(c) Conforming Amendments to Materiel Readiness Metrics and
Objectives for Major Weapon Systems.--Section 118 of title 10, United
States Code, is amended--
(1) in the section heading, by inserting ``materiel
readiness'' before ``objectives'';
(2) in subsection (b), by striking ``shall address'' and
inserting ``shall establish procedures and a computation
methodology to determine'';
(3) in subsection (c)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``the metrics
required'' and all that follows through the period at
the end and inserting ``materiel readiness objectives
for each major weapon system.''; and
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking ``the metrics
required by subsection (b)'' and inserting ``such
readiness objectives'';
(4) in subsection (d)(2), by striking ``readiness goals or
objectives'' and inserting ``materiel readiness objectives'';
(5) in subsection (e), in the matter preceding paragraph
(1), by inserting a comma after ``designated mission''; and
(6) in subsection (f)--
(A) by redesignating paragraphs (3), (4), and (5)
as paragraphs (4), (5), and (6), respectively; and
(B) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following
new paragraph:
``(3) The term `materiel readiness objective' means the
minimum required availability of each major weapon system that
is necessary to fulfill the requirements of the strategic
framework and guidance referred to in subsection (a).''.
SEC. 106. NAVY SENIOR TECHNICAL AUTHORITY.
Section 8669b of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(2), by amending subparagraph (B) to
read as follows:
``(B) reports directly to the program executive
officer.''; and
(2) in subsection (b)--
(A) by inserting ``(1)'' before ``Each Senior'';
and
(B) by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(2) Each Senior Technical Authority shall also be responsible for
the determination that all design requirements for a vessel class are
directly related to a key performance parameter or key system attribute
established in the capability development document for the vessel
class. Any requirements that the Senior Technical Authority determines
are unnecessary to meet a key performance parameter or key system
attribute shall not be approved.''.
TITLE II--ACCELERATING THE REQUIREMENTS PROCESS
SEC. 201. JOINT REQUIREMENTS COUNCIL.
(a) Implementation.--Not later than 30 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs shall revise
policies for the Joint Strategic Planning System (established under the
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Instruction 3100.01F), the Manual
for the Operation of the Joint Capabilities Integration and Development
System (issued October 30, 2021) and any other relevant instructions,
policies, or guidance to carry out the requirements of this section and
the amendments made by this section.
(b) Amendment to Name and Mission of Joint Requirements Oversight
Council.--Section 181 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the section heading, by striking ``Oversight'';
(2) in subsection (a), by striking ``Joint Requirements
Oversight Council in the Department of Defense.'' and inserting
the following: ``Joint Requirements Council (in this section
referred to as the `Council') in the Department of Defense. The
Council shall--
``(1) assist the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff in
carrying out the functions described in section 153 of this
title; and
``(2) provide recommendations for addressing joint
operational problems to the Requirements, Acquisition, and
Programming Integration Directorate established under section
186 of this title (in this section referred to as `RAPID').'';
and
(3) by striking ``Joint Requirements Oversight Council''
each place it appears and inserting ``Joint Requirements
Council''.
(c) Duties.--Subsection (b) of such section 181 is amended to read
as follows:
``(b) Duties.--The Council shall support the objectives established
pursuant to section 3102 of this title by performing the following
duties:
``(1) Continuously evaluating global trends, adversary
capabilities, and emerging threats to inform awareness and
understanding of joint operational problems.
``(2) In coordination with commanders of combatant
commands, compiling, refining, and prioritizing joint
operational problems.
``(3) Identifying and prioritizing gaps in joint military
capabilities to address joint operational problems.
``(4) Identifying advances in technology and innovative
concepts of operation that could improve the ability of the
joint force to address evolving threats and maintain the
military advantage of the United States.
``(5) Developing a joint capability requirement statement
that--
``(A) describes the joint operational problem to
provide necessary context for the joint capability
requirement; and
``(B) describes the solution sought in a
nonprescriptive manner to allow agile and innovative
development of joint capability requirements to address
the joint operational problem.
``(6) Making the following recommendations to RAPID:
``(A) With respect to a quick action requirement,
actions to fulfill such quick action requirement, not
later than 30 days after receipt or identification of
such quick action requirement.
``(B) Actions to fulfill each joint capability
requirement necessary to address joint operational
problems, not later than 60 days after receipt or
identification of such a joint operational problem.
``(C) Modifications to joint force design suitable
for addressing joint operational problems or
effectively integrating advancements in technology and
new concepts of operation.
``(D) Ways to improve operational effectiveness,
increase operational flexibility, or improve
interoperability and coordination between and among
joint military capabilities and the military
capabilities of allies or partners.
``(7) Providing notification to Deputy Secretary of
Defense--
``(A) upon receipt or identification of a quick
action requirement; and
``(B) upon submission of any recommendation to
RAPID.''.
(d) Composition.--Subsection (c) of such section 181 is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)(A)--
(A) by inserting ``and RAPID'' before ``for making
recommendations''; and
(B) by striking ``joint performance requirements''
and inserting ``joint capability requirements''; and
(2) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``and RAPID'' after
``Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff''.
(e) Advisors.--Subsection (d) of such section 181 is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)--
(A) by inserting ``strongly'' before ``consider'';
and
(B) by striking ``its mission under paragraphs (1)
and (2) of subsection (b)'' and inserting ``the duties
described in subsection (b)''; and
(2) in paragraph (3)--
(A) by striking ``seek, and strongly consider,''
and inserting ``seek and consider'';
(B) by striking ``, in their roles as customers of
the acquisition system,''; and
(C) by striking ``under subsection (b)(2) and joint
performance requirements pursuant to subsection
(b)(3)''.
(f) Responsibility for Capability Requirements.--Subsection (e) of
such section 181 is amended to read as follows:
``(e) Responsibility for Capability Requirements.--The Chief of
Staff of an armed force is responsible for the capability requirements
for that armed force.''.
(g) Analytic and Engineering Support.--Subsection (f) of such
section 181 is amended--
(1) in the subsection heading, by inserting ``and
Engineering'' after ``Analytic'';
(2) by inserting ``and the Mission Engineering and
Integration Activity established under section 203 of the SPEED
Act'' after ``the Office of Cost Assessment and Program
Evaluation''; and
(3) by striking ``in operations research, systems analysis,
and cost estimation to the Joint Requirements Oversight
Council''.
(h) Availability of Information to Congressional Defense
Committees.--Subsection (g) of such section 181 is amended--
(1) in the subsection heading, by striking ``Oversight'';
and
(2) by striking ``oversight information'' and inserting
``information''.
(i) Definitions.--Subsection (h) of such section 181 is amended to
read as follows:
``(h) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) The term `capability requirement' means a requirement
for a capability that is critical or essential to address an
operational problem.
``(2) The term `joint capability requirement' means a
capability requirement, including a capability requirement
related to a requirement for joint force interoperability, that
is critical or essential to address a specific joint
operational problem.
``(3) The term `joint military capabilities' means the
collective capabilities across the joint force, including both
joint and force-specific capabilities, that are available to
conduct military operations.
``(4) The term `joint operational problem' means a joint
challenge faced by a combatant command in achieving an assigned
military objective and may include limitations in capabilities,
resources, or the ability to effectively and efficiently
coordinate across the joint force, with another combatant
command, among joint military capabilities, or with the
military capabilities of allies or partners.
``(5) The term `operational problem' means a challenge or
barrier in an operational environment that needs to be overcome
to achieve a specific military objective.
``(6) The term `quick action requirement' has the meaning
given in Department of Defense Directive 5000.71 titled `Rapid
Fulfillment of Combatant Commander Urgent Operational Needs'
(August 24, 2012).''.
(j) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Title 10, united states code.--Title 10, United States
Code, is amended--
(A) in section 139a, by striking ``Joint
Requirements Oversight Council'' each place it appears
and inserting ``Joint Requirements Council'';
(B) in section 153(a)(5)(F), by striking ``section
181 of this title'' and inserting ``sections 181 and
186 of this title'';
(C) in section 179(c)(9)--
(i) by striking ``Joint Requirements
Oversight Council'' and inserting ``Joint
Requirements Council''; and
(ii) by striking ``section 181(h)'' and
inserting ``section 181'';
(D) in section 2926(f)(5)(C), by striking
``describing'' and all that follows through ``details
regarding'' and inserting ``describing details
regarding'';
(E) in section 3067(b)(1), by striking ``Joint
Requirements Oversight Council'' and inserting ``Joint
Requirements Council'';
(F) in section 3136(e)(1)(A)(ii), by striking
``approved by the Joint Requirements Oversight Council
and'' and inserting ``recommended for approval by the
Requirements, Acquisition, and Programming Integration
Directorate (established under section 186 of this
title)'';
(G) in section 4202(a)(2)(A), by striking ``joint
military requirement'' and all that follows through the
period at the end and inserting the following: ``joint
capability requirement, as determined by the
Requirements, Acquisition, and Programming Integration
Directorate (established under section 186 of this
title)'';
(H) by amending section 4251(e)(1) to read as
follows:
``(1) The term `requirements document' has the meaning
given in section 3104(d) of this title.'';
(I) in section 4252(b)(9), by striking ``Joint
Requirements Oversight Council'' and inserting ``Joint
Requirements Council'';
(J) in section 4376--
(i) in subsection (a), by striking ``,
after consultation with the Joint Requirements
Oversight Council regarding program
requirements,'';
(ii) in subsection (b)(2)(B), by striking
``joint military requirement (as defined in
section 181(g)(1) of this title) at less cost''
and inserting ``joint capability requirement
(as defined in section 181 of this title) at
less cost''; and
(iii) in subsection (c)(3), by striking
``joint military requirements'' and inserting
``joint capability requirements''; and
(K) in section 5514(b)(2)(C)(ii), by striking
``Joint Requirements Oversight Council'' and inserting
``Joint Requirements Council''.
(2) Other laws.--
(A) Section 902(d) of the National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (10 U.S.C. 139a
note) is amended--
(i) by striking ``, performance
requirements, and joint performance
requirements'' and inserting ``or performance
requirements''; and
(ii) by striking ``Joint Requirements
Oversight Council to validate such
requirements'' and inserting ``Joint
Requirements Council''.
(B) Section 1684(d)(4)(A)(i) of the National
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (10
U.S.C. 2271 note) is amended by striking ``either
approved by, or in development for, the Joint
Requirements Oversight Council'' and inserting ``in
development for consideration or under consideration by
the Joint Requirements Council''.
(C) Section 1686(b)(1) of the National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (10 U.S.C. 2224
note) is amended by striking ``through the Joint
Requirements Oversight Council'' and inserting ``in
consultation with the Requirements, Acquisition, and
Programming Integration Directorate (established under
section 186 of title 10, United States Code)''.
(D) Section 1510(b)(2) of the National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (10 U.S.C. 113
note) is amended by striking ``Joint Requirements
Oversight Council'' and inserting ``Joint Requirements
Council''.
(E) Section 915(a)(1) of the National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (10 U.S.C. 132
note) is amended by striking ``Joint Requirements
Oversight Council'' and inserting ``Joint Requirements
Council''.
(F) Section 938(a)(1) of the National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014 (10 U.S.C. 4571
note prec.) is amended by striking ``Joint Requirements
Oversight Council'' and inserting ``Joint Requirements
Council''.
(3) Repeals.--The following provisions of law are repealed:
(A) Section 942 of the National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008 (10 U.S.C. 181
note).
(B) Section 916 of the Floyd D. Spence National
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2001 (10
U.S.C. 181 note).
(C) Section 105(b) of the Weapon Systems
Acquisition Reform Act of 2009 (10 U.S.C. 181 note).
(D) Section 201 of the Weapon Systems Acquisition
Reform Act of 2009 (10 U.S.C. 3102 note).
SEC. 202. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS, ACQUISITION, AND
PROGRAMMING INTEGRATION DIRECTORATE.
(a) In General.--Chapter 7 of title 10, United States Code, is
amended by inserting after section 185 the following new section:
``Sec. 186. Requirements, Acquisition, and Programming Integration
Directorate
``(a) Establishment.--There is within the Department of Defense a
Requirements, Acquisition, and Programming Integration Directorate (in
this section referred to as `RAPID').
``(b) Purposes.--RAPID shall--
``(1) serve as the principal forum within the Department of
Defense to inform, coordinate, and evaluate solutions to joint
operational problems;
``(2) provide senior oversight, coordination, and budget
and capability harmonization with respect to such matters; and
``(3) act as an advisory body to the Secretary of Defense
and the Deputy Secretary of Defense with respect to such
matters.
``(c) Organization and Membership.--RAPID shall consist of the
following members:
``(1) The Chairman of the Joint Requirements Council and
the Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation, who
shall serve as co-directors of RAPID.
``(2) One member designated by each commander of a
combatant command.
``(3) One member designated by the Chairman of the Joint
Requirements Council.
``(4) One member designated by the Director of Cost
Assessment and Program Evaluation.
``(5) One member designated by each service acquisition
executive of a military department.
``(6) One member designated by the principal staff
assistant for the Mission Engineering and Integration Activity
(established under section 203 of the SPEED Act).
``(7) One member designated by the executive director of
the Joint Rapid Acquisition Cell (as described in the
Department of Defense Directive 5000.71 titled `Rapid
Fulfillment of Combatant Commander Urgent Operational Needs'
(August 24, 2012)).
``(8) One member designated by each portfolio executive
officer or a similar member of the acquisition workforce
responsible for the execution of a recommendation under
consideration by RAPID.
``(d) Responsibilities.--(1) RAPID shall--
``(A) promptly convene relevant members to assess a
proposed joint capability requirement to address a joint
operational problem by considering, with respect to such
proposed joint capability requirement--
``(i) associated resource requirements;
``(ii) mission engineering and interoperability
considerations for integration into joint
architectures; and
``(iii) factors related to acquisition and
sustainment; and
``(B) provide prioritized recommendations for solutions to
such joint operational problem to the Secretary of Defense and
Deputy Secretary of Defense.
``(2) In carrying out paragraph (1), RAPID shall--
``(A) use data-driven decisionmaking to prioritize resource
allocation;
``(B) maximize the effective use of resources by enabling
timely delivery of solutions to address a joint operational
problem in a manner that provides the greatest value for the
investment made;
``(C) enable the adoption and integration of solutions to
enhance military effectiveness and responsiveness to emerging
threats; and
``(D) in addition to any other considerations required
under this subsection, consider--
``(i) joint capability requirement statements or
other relevant justification materials provided by the
Joint Requirements Council;
``(ii) any analysis and recommendations provided by
the Mission Engineering and Integration Activity or the
Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation
relating to resource requirements described in
paragraph (1)(A)(i);
``(iii) recommendations from relevant service
acquisition executives or program executive officers
related to planning and execution of the proposed joint
capability requirement, including budget planning and
management, acquisition approach, program management,
and life-cycle management for a proposed joint
capability requirement; and
``(iv) the need to incorporate measure for
technology protection in certain covered systems to
enable the use or sale of proposed technology solutions
to joint operational problems with allies and partner
countries in a manner that protects national security
interest while promoting international collaboration.
``(e) Recommendation.--(1) Not later than 30 days after the date of
receipt of a recommendation with respect to a joint capability
requirement for a joint operational problem, from the Joint
Requirements Council in accordance with section 181 of this title,
RAPID shall submit to the Deputy Secretary of Defense a recommendation
for a solution to the joint operational problem that includes the
following:
``(A) A description of the resources needed to implement
the solution and, as appropriate, resources needed to support
the acquisition and sustainment of such solution of over the
anticipated life cycle of the solution.
``(B) Any recommended actions necessary to enable
integration of the solution into the joint force or to revise
joint concepts of operation to best resolve the joint
operational problem.
``(C) With respect to a solution for which access may be
shared with an ally or partner country, recommended
considerations--
``(i) to be incorporated during the design and
development phase of the solution; and
``(ii) to facilitate future production and
logistics support for the solution to the ally or
partner country.
``(D) Any necessary changes to policy or guidance to enable
effective acquisition, fielding, and employment of a solution
that is a joint military capability.
``(E) Any other recommended actions to expeditiously
provide the Armed Forces with the capabilities necessary to
operate effectively, to address evolving threats, and to
maintain the military advantage of the United States in the
most cost-effective manner practicable.
``(2) The co-chairs of RAPID may request an additional amount of
time, not to exceed 30 days, to provide a recommendation related to a
joint capability requirement that is not a quick action requirement to
the Deputy Secretary of Defense under this subsection.
``(f) Determination.--(1) Not later than 30 days after receipt of a
recommendation under subsection (e), the Deputy Secretary of Defense
shall issue a memorandum that approves, approves with modification, or
rejects such a recommendation.
``(2) The Deputy Secretary of Defense shall include along with a
memorandum that approves or approves with modification a recommendation
described in paragraph (1) specific direction and guidance to the
applicable element of the Department of Defense to which such
recommendation applies.
``(3) The Deputy Secretary of Defense shall include along with a
memorandum that rejects a recommendation described in paragraph (1) a
specific direction--
``(A) for alternative action to be taken by the applicable
element of the Department of Defense to which such
recommendation applies to address the relevant joint
operational problem; or
``(B) to RAPID for further action to address the relevant
joint operational problem.
``(g) Notification.--If the Deputy Secretary of Defense fails to
issue a memorandum as required by subsection (f) within 90 days after
the date on which the Joint Requirements Council provides a
recommendation to address a joint operational problem to the RAPID, the
Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense
committees a notification of such failure.
``(h) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) The terms `joint capability requirement', `joint
military capability', `joint operational problem', and `quick
action requirement' have the meanings given, respectively, in
section 181 of this title.
``(2) The term `relevant member' means a member of RAPID
(or a designee) that has a primary interest in, or
responsibility for, a proposed joint capability requirement or
quick action requirement under assessment by RAPID.''.
(b) Conforming Amendments to Director of Cost Assessment and
Program Evaluation.--Section 139a(d) of title 10, United States Code,
is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (4) through (9) as
paragraphs (5) through (10), respectively; and
(2) by inserting after paragraph (3) the following new
paragraph:
``(4) Analysis and advice for resource discussions relating
to joint capability requirements under consideration by the
Requirements, Acquisition, and Programming Integration
Directorate pursuant to section 186 of this title.''.
SEC. 203. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE MISSION ENGINEERING AND INTEGRATION
ACTIVITY.
(a) Establishment.--Not later than 120 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish within
the Department of Defense a Mission Engineering and Integration
Activity (in this section referred to as ``MEIA'').
(b) Designation.--The Secretary of Defense shall designate a
principal staff assistant from within the Office of the Secretary of
Defense whose office shall serve as the office of primary
responsibility for MEIA.
(c) Duties.--The principal staff assistant designated under
subsection (b) shall have the following duties:
(1) Lead cross-service activities to develop, identify,
analyze, and validate integrated technology solutions to
address joint operational problems.
(2) Coordinate with the appropriate program executive
officers to align and implement such activities.
(3) Proactively seek and consider feedback of the primary
users and operators of proposed technology solutions to address
joint operational problems throughout the implementation of
such activities.
(4) Upon request, perform analysis for, experiment with,
and prototype technology to integrate such technology into
joint architectures, to use such technology, to inform
operational concepts, and to provide analysis or
recommendations regarding the use of such technology to the
Requirements, Acquisition, and Programming Integration
Directorate, established by section 186 of title 10, United
Stated Code (in this section referred to as ``RAPID'').
(5) Coordinate with commanders of the combatant commands to
understand the priorities of commanders and support the
fielding of integrated technology solutions to address joint
operational problems.
(6) Upon request, assist a program executive officer in
carrying out the responsibilities established under section
1732 of title 10, United States Code (as added by section 102
of this Act), by providing analysis, recommendations, and
engineering assistance in the integration of technology
solutions related to the capabilities for which the program
executive officer is responsible.
(7) Use existing authorities (including authorities
provided in section 4022 of title 10, United States Code) to
carry out this section.
(d) Implementation Plan.--
(1) Plan.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to
the congressional defense committees an implementation plan for
MEIA.
(2) Elements.--The plan required by paragraph (1) shall
include a description of the following:
(A) The organizational structure and resource
requirements associated with the establishment and
operation of MEIA.
(B) How MEIA will support and inform the RAPID in
carrying out the requirements of section 186 of title
10, United States Code.
(C) Each budget line item or program element that
will be associated with the activities of MEIA.
(D) Coordination between MEIA and relevant elements
of the Department of Defense that are established to
identify and support the development of,
experimentation with, and integration of technology
solutions to address joint operational problems for the
Department, including--
(i) the Defense Innovation Unit established
under section 4217 of the title 10, United
States Code;
(ii) the Defense Research and Development
Rapid Innovation Program established under
section 4061 of such title;
(iii) a entity of the Department of Defense
that is a member of the Defense Innovation
Community of Entities established by the
Director of the Defense Innovation Unit;
(iv) the Strategic Capabilities Office; and
(v) recipients of awards under the Small
Business Innovation Research Program or the
Small Business Technology Transfer Program (as
defined in section 9 of the Small Business Act
(15 U.S.C. 638)).
(E) How MEIA will coordinate with and assist--
(i) the commanders of combatant commands in
fielding integrated technology solutions to
address joint operational problems under
subsection (c)(5); and
(ii) the program executive officers and
each Secretary of a military department in the
integration of technology to enhance military
effectiveness and responsiveness.
(F) Any recommendations for changes to statute or
policy for successful implementation of this section.
(e) Assessment.--Not later than five years after the date of the
establishment of MEIA, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the
congressional defense committees an assessment of whether MEIA should
be modified, made permanent, or terminated based on its effectiveness
in carrying out the requirements of this section.
(f) Joint Operational Problem Defined.--In this section, the term
``joint operational problem'' has the meaning given in section 181 of
title 10, United States Code.
TITLE III--STRIKING THE BALANCE BETWEEN REGULATION AND EFFICIENCY
SEC. 301. MATTERS RELATED TO DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE USE OF COST
ACCOUNTING STANDARDS.
(a) Reduction or Elimination of CAS.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the date of
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall--
(A) identify actions necessary to streamline
requirements for compliance with the cost accounting
standards established under section 1502 of title 41,
United States Code (in this section referred to as
``CAS''), in the performance of a contract with the
Department of Defense; and
(B) reduce or eliminate such requirements under the
circumstances described in paragraph (2).
(2) Circumstances described.--The circumstances described
in this paragraph are as follows:
(A) With respect to an action to eliminate
compliance with CAS, if reliance on a similar
requirement under generally accepted accounting
principles (in this section referred to as ``GAAP'')
would materially achieve uniformity and consistency in
cost accounting with respect to such elimination
without bias or prejudice to parties to a contract.
(B) If other existing requirements in guidance or
regulation will sufficiently protect the interests of
the Secretary of Defense in the oversight of cost
contracts.
(C) If such requirement is no longer necessary or
appropriate.
(b) Assessment of GAAP To Meet Department of Defense Needs.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense shall conduct an
assessment of the steps necessary to enable the use of GAAP
instead of CAS as the baseline for standards of financial
accounting and reporting for the contracts of the Department of
Defense. Such assessment shall include--
(A) an identification of needed changes to law,
regulation, or policy to enable the Secretary to
eliminate the use of CAS and implement the use of GAAP
as such baseline; and
(B) an identification any Department-specific
standards that would be required in addition to GAAP to
support the unique requirements of defense contracts.
(2) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the
congressional defense committees a report on the findings of
the assessment required by paragraph (1), along with any
recommended actions for Congress to reduce or eliminate
requirements for compliance with CAS.
SEC. 302. REVIEW OF COMMERCIAL BUYING PRACTICES.
(a) Review Required.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 120 days after the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall carry out
a comprehensive review of the approach of the Department of
Defense to acquiring commercial products and commercial
services and the implementation of the requirements of the
Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act of 1994 (Public Law 103-
355) by the Department.
(2) Review requirements.--The review required by paragraph
(1) shall include an assessment of each of the following as
they relate to the approach of the Department of Defense to
acquiring commercial products and commercial services:
(A) The policies, procedures, guidance, and
instructions of the Department of Defense.
(B) The extent to which contracts entered into by
the Department of Defense for the acquisition of
commercial products or commercial services include
requirements or other provisions that should not apply
to the acquisition of a commercial product or
commercial service and the extent to which such
requirements or other provisions are included in
subcontracts under such contracts.
(C) Training curricula, educational materials, and
associated activities of the Department of Defense
related to acquiring commercial products and commercial
services, including such curricula, materials, and
activities that pertain to the determination of a
product or service as a commercial product or
commercial service and the congressional intent that
the definitions of the terms ``commercial product'' and
``commercial service'' should be applied broadly.
(D) Audit and oversight policies and practices of
the Department of Defense.
(E) Incentives that discourage the acquisition
workforce from acquiring commercial products or
commercial services.
(F) The process by which the Department of Defense
develops and issues regulations related to the
acquisition of commercial products or commercial
services, including delays in rulemaking and the
resulting delays in the implementation of policies
intended to improve or streamline the acquisition of
commercial products or commercial services.
(G) Requirements in solicitations or contracts of
the Department of Defense requiring the use of military
specifications or standards when applicable commercial
specifications or standards were available that could
have meet the needs of the Department served by such
military specifications or standards.
(H) The process by which the Department of Defense
evaluates past performance, including performance under
Federal, State, and local government and private
contracts (as described in section 15.305(a)(2)(ii) of
the Federal Acquisition Regulation), in the acquisition
of commercial products or commercial services.
(b) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the enactment of this
Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense
committees a report that--
(1) describes the findings of the review required by
subsection (a)(1);
(2) describes the corrective actions taken by the Secretary
to address the issues identified pursuant to such review,
including any findings of noncompliance by the Department of
Defense with the requirements of the Federal Acquisition
Streamlining Act of 1994 (Public Law 103-355) or any other
statutory or regulatory requirements related to advancing and
enabling the procurement of commercial products and commercial
services; and
(3) includes any recommendations of the Secretary on
actions that Congress may take to better enable the Department
of Defense to take advantage of the benefits of acquiring
commercial products and commercial services.
SEC. 303. ADJUSTMENTS TO CERTAIN ACQUISITION THRESHOLDS.
(a) Major Program.--Section 3041 of title 10, United States Code,
is amended--
(1) in subsection (c)(1)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``$115,000,000
(based on fiscal year 1990 constant dollars)'' and
inserting ``$275,000,000 (based on fiscal year 2024
constant dollars)''; and
(B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``$540,000,000
(based on fiscal year 1990 constant dollars)'' and
inserting ``$1,300,000,000 (based on fiscal year 2024
constant dollars)''; and
(2) in subsection (d)(1), by striking ``$750,000 (based on
fiscal year 1980 constant dollars)'' and inserting ``$5,000,000
(based on fiscal year 2024 constant dollars)''.
(b) Use of Procedures Other Than Competitive Procedures.--Section
3204(e)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking ``$10,000,000'' each place it appears and
inserting ``$100,000,000'';
(2) by striking ``$75,000,000'' each place it appears and
inserting ``$500,000,000''; and
(3) in subparagraph (B)(i), by striking ``$500,000'' and
inserting ``$5,000,000''.
(c) Simplified Procedures for Small Purchases.--Section 3205(a) of
title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``simplified acquisition
threshold'' and inserting ``threshold specified in section
3571(a) of this title''; and
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``$5,000,000'' and
inserting ``$50,000,000''.
(d) Multiyear Contracts.--Section 3501 of title 10, United States
Code, is amended--
(1) by striking ``$500,000,000'' each place it appears and
inserting ``$1,000,000,000'';
(2) by striking ``$100,000,000'' each place it appears and
inserting ``$150,000,000''; and
(3) by striking ``$20,000,000'' each place it appears and
inserting ``$50,000,000''.
(e) Simplified Acquisition Threshold.--Section 3571(a) of title 10,
United States Code, is amended--
(1) by inserting ``(1)'' before ``For purposes of
acquisitions'';
(2) by striking ``as specified in section 134 of title 41''
and inserting ``$10,000,000''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
``(2) In the case of any contract to be awarded and performed, or
purchase to be made, in support of a contingency operation or a
humanitarian or peacekeeping operation, the simplified acquisition
threshold means an amount equal to two times the amount specified in
paragraph (1).''.
(f) Micro-Purchase Threshold.--Section 3573 of title 10, United
States Code, is amended by striking ``$10,000'' and inserting
``$100,000''.
(g) Modifications to Submissions of Cost or Pricing Data.--Section
3702(a) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) by striking ``June 30, 2018'' each place it
appears and inserting ``June 30, 2026'';
(B) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``$2,000,000''
and inserting ``$10,000,000''; and
(C) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``$750,000''
and inserting ``$2,000,000'';
(2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``$2,000,000'' and
inserting ``$10,000,000''; and
(3) in subparagraph (3)(A), by striking ``$2,000,000'' and
inserting ``$10,000,000''.
(h) Major Defense Acquisition Programs; Definitions; Exceptions.--
Section 4201(a)(2) of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``$300,000,000 (based
on fiscal year 1990 constant dollars)'' and inserting
``$1,000,000,000 (based on fiscal year 2024 constant
dollars)''; and
(2) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``$1,800,000,000
(based on fiscal year 1990 constant dollars)'' and inserting
``$5,500,000,000 (based on fiscal year 2024 constant
dollars)''.
SEC. 304. ALTERNATIVE CAPABILITY-BASED PRICING.
Chapter 287 of title 10, United States Code, is amended by adding
at the end the following new section:
``Sec. 3906. Alternative capability-based pricing
``(a) In General.--Except as provided by subsection (b), the head
of an agency may use alternative capability-based analysis for the
acquisition of a commercial solution to determine whether the price for
a commercial solution is fair and reasonable based on the value to the
Government as determined under such analysis.
``(b) Exception.--Subsection (a) does not apply with respect to the
acquisition of a commercial solution under a subcontract.
``(c) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) The term `alternative capability-based analysis'
means an analysis of the value to the Government of a
commercial solution that determines such value based on one or
more of the following criteria:
``(A) The suitability of the commercial solution
for the particular purpose for which the Government
would acquire such commercial solution.
``(B) The benefits obtained by the Government as a
result of improvements in capability, effectiveness,
efficiency, process, or speed to delivery provided by
such commercial solution.
``(C) The estimated total cost avoidance resulting
from the acquisition and use of such commercial
solution, including the cost avoidance resulting from
reductions to operations, sustainment, or risks to
mission by replacing fielded capabilities with such
commercial solution.
``(D) Input from the intended end users of such
commercial solution on the potential value of the
improvements to capabilities or processes provided by
such commercial solution.
``(2) The term `commercial solution' means a product or
service, including an integrated combination of products,
services, or products and services--
``(A) that is sold, leased, or licensed in the
commercial marketplace, or offered for sale, lease, or
license in the commercial marketplace; and
``(B) the provider of which contemporaneously
offers such solution or a solution that is similar to
such solution to the general public or public entities,
including State and local governments and foreign
governments, under terms and conditions that are
similar to the terms and conditions under which such
solution is offered to the Federal Government.''.
SEC. 305. CLARIFICATION OF CONDITIONS FOR PAYMENTS FOR COMMERCIAL
PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES.
Section 3805 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (d)--
(A) by striking ``The conditions'' and inserting
``(1) The conditions''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(2) For the purposes of section 3803 of this title, a payment for
covered services acquired through a commercially utilized acquisition
strategy shall not be considered an advance payment made under section
3801 of this title.''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following new subsection:
``(e) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) The term `commercially utilized acquisition strategy'
means an acquisition of a service by the Government under terms
and conditions that--
``(A) are similar to the terms and conditions under
which such service is available to the public; and
``(B) provide such service as a consumption-based
solution or under a technology subscription model or
other model based on predetermined pricing for access
to such service.
``(2) The term `covered service' means a commercial service
that includes access to or use of any combination of hardware,
equipment, software, labor, or services, including access to
commercial satellite data and associated services, that is
integrated to provide a capability.''.
TITLE IV--STRENGTHENING THE DEFENSE INDUSTRIAL BASE AND LEVERAGING
COMMERCIAL INNOVATION
SEC. 401. DEFENSE INDUSTRIAL RESILIENCE CONSORTIUM.
(a) Establishment.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish a
consortium (to be known as the ``Defense Industrial Resilience
Consortium'') to address challenges to and limitations of the
industrial base to ensure that the Armed Forces are equipped with the
capabilities necessary to effectively respond to national security
challenges.
(b) Membership.--Membership in the consortium established under
subsection (a) shall be open to relevant entities and individuals from
the Government, industry, and academia with an interest in advanced
manufacturing or production technologies, fostering domestic industrial
innovation, or enabling rapid, scalable solutions to sustain and
enhance the availability of essential defense components.
(c) Purpose.--
(1) In general.--The consortium established under
subsection (a) shall provide a forum for the Government,
industry, and academia to collaborate on identifying and
addressing challenges to and limitations of the industrial base
in meeting the needs of the Department of Defense.
(2) Areas of focus.--In identifying and addressing
challenges to and limitations of the industrial base, the
consortium established under subsection (a) shall focus on--
(A) eliminating impediments to a resilient and
robust industrial base, including--
(i) policies and procedures that are
impeding businesses of all types and sizes from
working with the Department of Defense;
(ii) areas where the Department could
improve implementation of the Federal
Acquisition Streamlining Act of 1994 (Public
Law 103-355), including limiting the
application of requirements specific to the
Government in the procurement of commercial
products and commercial services, and
maximizing the use of commercial standards
rather than military specifications and
standards; and
(iii) impediments to transitioning
research, development, testing, and evaluation
programs funded by military departments and the
Department to relevant acquisition programs of
record;
(B) identifying and addressing supply chain
fragility, including--
(i) preventing or mitigating parts
obsolescence, and addressing the
vulnerabilities from reliance on single sources
for any material, product, or service while
reducing the dependencies on nonallied nations;
(ii) developing long-term industrial base
strategies and solutions to ensure the
availability of mission-critical parts for
systems of the Department throughout the life
cycle of such systems; and
(iii) bolstering supply chain diversity and
developing shared awareness of supply chain
challenges, risks, and opportunities between
Government and industry;
(C) expanding domestic manufacturing and industrial
capacity, including--
(i) enabling rapid engagement between
government, academia, and industry to develop,
test, and scale solutions that can revitalize
domestic manufacturing capabilities, reduce
reliance on single sources of supply, and
strengthen the defense industrial base;
(ii) identifying financial incentives and
business models to enable and support a civil
reserve manufacturing network that could be
activated to meet the needs of the Department
of Defense;
(iii) supporting and informing efforts to
enhance government-owned, government-operated
arsenals and depots with advanced manufacturing
and other production capabilities to enable
rapid response across the spectrum of
operational environments;
(iv) enabling and enhancing public-private
partnerships between the organic industrial
base, commercial manufacturing, and other
industrial entities; and
(v) anticipate and close gaps in
manufacturing capabilities for defense systems
by fostering the adoption of additive
manufacturing, automation, AI-driven
production, and other emerging capabilities to
modernize the industrial base and associated
supply chains;
(D) accessing and implementing commercial
approaches to enabling modern manufacturing
capabilities, including--
(i) adoption of commercial approaches to
information technology, software, the cloud,
data management, and artificial intelligence to
support and enable modern manufacturing
capabilities; and
(ii) identifying financial incentives and
business models to encourage private-sector
investment and expand access to advanced, high-
quality advanced manufacturing, that uses
software to digitize manufacturing to the
greatest extent possible; and
(E) development and training of the workforce,
including--
(i) leveraging industry best practices
training and development of critical skills in
advanced manufacturing, including skills
required to manufacture unique components and
products for systems of the Department of
Defense and to enable capabilities of the
Department;
(ii) identifying or developing
opportunities for public-private talent
exchanges and skills development in areas such
as advanced manufacturing, supply chain
management, and supply chain risk management;
and
(iii) identify or develop curriculum and
experiential learning to support and enable
advanced manufacturing, production
technologies, or industrial innovation.
(d) Consortium Work Products and Recommendations.--Relevant work
products and recommendations developed through consortium activities
shall be considered by the Secretary of Defense in developing policy
and allocating resources to ensure that the Armed Forces are equipped
with the capabilities necessary to effectively respond to national
security challenges.
(e) Use of Other Transaction Authorities.--The consortium
established under subsection (a) shall support the use of other
transaction authorities under sections 4021 and 4022 of title 10,
United States Code, and other appropriate acquisition authorities, to
rapidly prototype and field advanced manufacturing solutions and to
address the other challenges to and limitations of the industrial base.
SEC. 402. AMENDMENT TO OTHER TRANSACTION AUTHORITY.
(a) In General.--Section 4022 of title 10, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(2)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``agency
that'' and all that follows through ``the use'' and
inserting ``agency that the use'';
(B) in subparagraph (B)(i), by striking ``writing
that'' and all that follows through ``the use'' and
inserting ``writing that the use''; and
(C) in subparagraph (C)--
(i) by striking ``subsection (f)'' each
place it appears and inserting ``subsection
(e)''; and
(ii) in clause (i)(I), by striking ``the
requirements of subsection (d)'' and all that
follows through ``and the'' and inserting
``the'';
(2) by striking subsection (d);
(3) by redesignating subsections (e) through (i) as
subsections (d) through (h), respectively; and
(4) in subsection (f), as so redesignated, by striking
``subsection (f)'' and inserting ``subsection (e)''.
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) National security act of 1947.--Section 102A(n)(6)(C)
of the National Security Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 3024(n)(6)(C))
is amended--
(A) by repealing clauses (v) and (vi); and
(B) in clause (vii)--
(i) in the matter preceding subclause (I),
by striking ``4022(f)(2)'' and inserting
``4022(e)(2)''; and
(ii) in subclause (V)(cc), by striking
``4022(f)(5)'' and inserting ``4022(e)(5)''.
(2) Homeland security act of 2002.--Section 831(d) of the
Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 391(d)) is amended by
striking ``4022(e)'' and inserting ``4022(d)''.
(3) John s. mccain national defense authorization act for
fiscal year 2019.--Section 873(c)(1) of the John S. McCain
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public
Law 115-232; 10 U.S.C. 4021 note) is amended--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``subsection
(f)'' and inserting ``subsection (e)''; and
(B) in subparagraph (E), by striking ``or (f)'' and
inserting ``or (e)''.
(4) James m. inhofe national defense authorization act for
fiscal year 2023.--Section 322(h)(2) of the James M. Inhofe
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public
Law 117-263; 10 U.S.C. 2911 note) is amended by striking
``subsection (f)'' and inserting ``subsection (e)''.
SEC. 403. DATA-AS-A-SERVICE SOLUTIONS FOR WEAPON SYSTEM CONTRACTS.
(a) In General.--Chapter 323 of title 10, United States Code, as
amended by section 105 of this Act, is amended by adding at the end the
following new section:
``Sec. 4324. Data-as-a-service solutions for weapon system contracts
``(a) Negotiations for Data-as-a-Service.--Before entering into a
contract for the procurement of a weapon system (or component thereof),
the Secretary of Defense shall ensure, to the maximum extent
practicable, that the negotiations for such contract include
negotiations for data-as-a-service solutions to facilitate access to
the information described in subsection (b) as necessary for--
``(1) the performance of depot-level maintenance and repair
workload by employees of the Department of Defense in
accordance with section 2466 of this title; or
``(2) the maintenance of a core logistics capability in
accordance with section 2464 of this title.
``(b) Covered Information.--The information described in subsection
(a) is technical data or computer software that relates to the weapon
system (or component thereof) to be procured that is--
``(1) detailed manufacturing or process data relating to
how contractors or subcontractors design, develop, produce,
test, certify, diagnose, maintain, repair, or otherwise support
such weapon system (or component thereof);
``(2) digital networks or digital models that contain data
described in paragraph (1), or virtual replicas of such data;
``(3) design details, algorithms, processes, flow charts,
formulas, and related information that describe the design,
organization, or structure of computer software; or
``(4) necessary for operation, maintenance, installation,
or training with respect to such weapon system (or component
thereof).
``(c) Methods and Schedule for Access.--(1) With respect to a data-
as-a-service solution described in subsection (a), access to the
information described in subsection (b) may be made available through
one or more methods, including electronically, in-person, or machine-
to-machine encryption, as appropriate based on the type, sensitivity,
or authorized use of such information.
``(2) The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the terms of a
contract for a data-as-a-service solution described in subsection (a)
clearly state the requirements, conditions, and schedule for providing
access to the information described in subsection (b).
``(d) Applicability to Commercial Products.--(1) With respect to a
contract for a commercial product that is a data-as-a-service solution
described in subsection (a), the offeror for such commercial product
shall ensure that the pricing and terms and conditions of access to
information described in subsection (b) for such commercial product is
commensurate with commercial practices for similar access.
``(2) The Secretary of Defense may not require an offeror for a
commercial product that is a data-as-a-service solution described in
subsection (a) to provide access to information described in subsection
(b) in a manner that is different from what such offeror customarily
provides to a buyer of such commercial product, unless the offeror has
agreed to provide such access pursuant to a specifically negotiated
agreement with the Secretary.
``(e) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
construed as modifying any rights, obligations, or limitations of the
Government, contractor, or subcontractor with respect to rights in
technical data under subchapter I of chapter 275 of this title.
``(f) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) The term `access', with respect to information
described in subsection (b), means the availability of such
information as a service rather than as specifically delivered
in the performance of a contract for the procurement of a
weapon system (or component thereof).
``(2) The term `data-as-a-service' means a model under
which the Secretary is provided access to the most up-to-date
information described in subsection (b) that relates to a
weapon system (or component thereof) to be procured by the
Secretary, including any associated license agreements for such
information.
``(3) The term `technical data' has the meaning given in
section 3013 of this title.''.
(b) Guidance Required.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall issue
guidance to carry out the requirements of section 4324 of title 10,
United States Code, as added by this section.
(c) Applicability.--Section 4324 of title 10, United States Code,
as added by this section, shall apply with respect to a contract for
the procurement of a weapon system (or component thereof) entered into
on or after the date of the enactment of this Act.
SEC. 404. REQUIREMENTS FOR MODULAR OPEN SYSTEM APPROACH AND
MODIFICATIONS TO RIGHTS IN TECHNICAL DATA.
(a) Requirements for Modular Open System Approach.--Section 4401 of
title 10, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 4401. Requirement for modular open system approach
``(a) Requirement.--The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that a
covered system to be procured is designed and developed, to the maximum
extent practicable, with a modular open system approach.
``(b) Assessment To Inform Strategy.--Before designing or
developing a covered system, the Secretary of Defense shall conduct an
assessment to identify the open systems objectives to be achieved by
the design and development of the covered system. Such assessment shall
identify and document how such approach would--
``(1) support the objectives of the defense acquisition
system established pursuant to section 3102 of this title;
``(2) align with the preference for the acquisition of
commercial products in section 3453 of this title to retain, to
the maximum extent practicable, the commercial viability of
subsystems and components of the covered system;
``(3) reduce the complexity and increase the speed by which
new technology can be integrated into a covered system to
enhance miliary effectiveness and responsiveness to emerging
threats;
``(4) enable the use of iterative development cycles and
discontinue or terminate the development of capabilities--
``(A) that no longer align with approved capability
requirements (as defined in section 181 of this title)
or priorities; or
``(B) that are experiencing significant cost
growth, performance deficiencies, or delays in
schedule;
``(5) promote a robust and responsive defense industrial
base, and foster competition amongst offerors of subsystems and
components of the covered system through the life cycle of the
covered system, especially at the module level;
``(6) reduce schedule delays and development timelines;
``(7) increase and enable interoperability of a covered
system with the joint force as changes to force design evolve;
and
``(8) enable effective life-cycle management and product
support of a covered system--
``(A) in accordance with the requirements of
section 4322 of this title; and
``(B) to ensure that the covered system will meet
applicable operational readiness requirements (as
defined in such section 4322) and materiel readiness
objectives (established under section 118(c) of this
title) in the most cost-effective manner practicable.
``(c) Architecture Requirements.--(1) In developing an architecture
for the procurement of a covered system using a modular open system
approach, the Secretary shall ensure that the architecture--
``(A) adequately designates and defines modules, module
interfaces, key interfaces, and openness characteristics of the
covered system necessary to achieve the open systems objectives
described in subsection (b);
``(B) to the extent practicable, is based on--
``(i) widely accepted, consensus-based standards
that are available at no cost or under fair and
reasonable license terms; or
``(ii) if such standards are not available or
suitable, incremental standards that define
relationships between module interfaces and key
interfaces; and
``(C) is designed and developed to accelerate the
procurement and integration of commercial products as modules,
module interfaces, and key interfaces.
``(2) The Secretary shall consider input from private entities as
early as possible to inform decisions regarding the level in the
architecture at which a modular open system approach will be
implemented for a covered system.
``(3) The architecture described in this subsection shall be
included in any draft and final solicitations for procurement of a
covered system.
``(d) Openness Characteristics.--Consistent with the requirements
of subchapter I of chapter 275 of this title, the Secretary shall
include in the solicitation for the covered system a description of the
desired openness characteristics of the covered system necessary to
achieve the open systems objectives described in subsection (b),
including the following:
``(1) The open systems objectives identified as result of
the assessment required by subsection (b).
``(2) A description of the application of specifications or
standards for module interfaces to achieve such objectives.
``(3) A description of the minimum technical data package
elements necessary to achieve such objectives.
``(4) The desired license rights in module interfaces or
key interfaces based on such objectives, including desired
license rights to enable the replacement of a module or module
interface with an alternative or new module or module
interface.
``(e) Applicability to Commercial Products.--In applying the
requirements of this section to a covered system that includes a
commercial product, the Secretary of Defense shall--
``(1) implement modular open system approaches in
accordance with such approaches used in the ordinary course of
business for such commercial product on the commercial
marketplace;
``(2) for a commercial product that is commercial technical
data or commercial software, procure such commercial product
under license terms similar to such terms that are customarily
provided to the public, unless the Secretary has specifically
negotiated different license terms;
``(3) when applicable, obtain the delivery of commercial
software development kits with license rights necessary to
support the desired openness characteristics for the covered
system; and
``(4) to the maximum extent practical, conduct negotiations
for desired license rights in accordance with the preference
for specially negotiated licenses in section 3774(c) of this
title.
``(f) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) The term `covered system' means a system acquired or
developed under--
``(A) an acquisition program of the Department of
Defense; or
``(B) a research and development program of the
Department to address a capability requirement or joint
capability requirement (as defined in section 181 of
this title).
``(2) The term `incremental standard' means a specification
for a module interface or key interface that includes--
``(A) software-defined syntax and properties that
specifically govern how values are validly passed and
received between subsystems and components in machine-
readable format;
``(B) a machine-readable definition of the
relationship between the module interface or key
interface and existing common standards or interfaces
available in Department databases; and
``(C) documentation with functional descriptions of
software-defined interfaces, conveying semantic meaning
of elements of the module interface or key interface.
``(3) The term `key interface' means a shared boundary
between any system, subsystem of a covered system, or set of
modules, defined by various physical, logical, functional
characteristics, such as electrical, mechanical, fluidic,
optical, radio frequency, data, networking, or software.
``(4) The term `modular open system approach' means the
application of a strategy that leverages an architecture that
enables modules to be incrementally added, removed, or replaced
throughout the life cycle of the covered system to achieve a
set of objectives.
``(5) The term `module' means a self-contained functional
hardware or software unit--
``(A) that can be developed, tested, and deployed
independently of a module interface or key interface;
and
``(B) that can simultaneously interact with another
self-contained functional hardware or software unit
described in subparagraph (A) through a module
interface or key interface.
``(6) The term `module interface' means a shared boundary
between modules, defined by physical, logical, and functional
characteristics, such as electrical, mechanical, fluidic,
optical, radio frequency, data, networking, or software.
``(7) The term `software development kit' means a
collection of software tools and programs such as libraries,
application programming interfaces, integrated development
environments, testing tools, or documentation used to create
applications that are appropriate for a specific software
platform.''.
(b) Guidance.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall issue guidance to
carry out the requirements of section 4401 of title 10, United States
Code, as amended by this section.
(c) Applicability.--The requirements of section 4401 of title 10,
United States Code, as amended by this section, shall apply with
respect to a contract entered into on or after the date of the
enactment of this Act.
(d) Modification to Rights in Technical Data.--
(1) Rights in technical data.--Section 3771 of title 10,
United States Code, is amended--
(A) in subsection (a)--
(i) in paragraph (2)(A), by striking `` or
copyrights'' and inserting ``, copyrights,
trade secrets,''; and
(ii) by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(3) Enforcement of certain rights.--Regulations
prescribed under paragraph (1) may not affect or limit any
right described in paragraph (2)(A) or the ability of a
contractor or subcontractor to enforce such a right against a
third party that has not otherwise obtained a license for such
a right from the United States or from the contractor or
subcontractor.''; and
(B) in subsection (b)--
(i) in paragraph (2), by striking
``paragraphs (3), (4), and (7),'' and inserting
``paragraphs (3) and (4),'';
(ii) by amending paragraph (3) to read as
follows:
``(3) Inapplicability of paragraph (2).--Unless otherwise
negotiated, paragraph (2) does not apply to technical data
that--
``(A) constitutes a correction or change to data
furnished by the United States; or
``(B) is otherwise publicly available or has been
released or disclosed by the contractor or
subcontractor without restriction on further release or
disclosure.'';
(iii) by amending paragraph (4) to read as
follows:
``(4) Exceptions to paragraph (2).--(A) Notwithstanding
paragraph (2), unless otherwise negotiated, the United States
shall have government purpose rights, in perpetuity, in
technical data that--
``(i) relates to form, fit, or function of an item
or process; or
``(ii) is necessary for operation, maintenance,
installation, or training (other than detailed
manufacturing or process data) of an item or process.
``(B) Notwithstanding paragraph (2), the United States may
release or disclose technical data to persons outside the
Government, or permit the use of technical data by such
persons, if such release, disclosure, or use--
``(i) is necessary for emergency repair and
overhaul;
``(ii) is a release or disclosure of technical data
(other than detailed manufacturing or process data) to,
or use of such data by, a foreign government, where
such release or disclosure is in the interest of the
United States and is required for evaluation or
informational purposes;
``(iii) is made subject to a prohibition that the
person to whom the data are released or disclosed may
not further release, disclose, or use such data; and
``(iv) the contractor or subcontractor asserting
the restriction is notified of such release,
disclosure, or use.'';
(iv) in paragraph (6)--
(I) in the paragraph heading, by
striking ``Interfaces'' and inserting
``Module interfaces of an item'';
(II) by inserting ``, in
perpetuity,'' after ``government
purpose rights''; and
(III) by striking ``an interface
between an item or process and other
items or processes'' and inserting ``a
module interface of an item''; and
(v) in paragraph (7)--
(I) in the paragraph heading, by
striking ``Modular system interfaces''
and inserting ``Key interfaces of an
item'';
(II) in subparagraph (A)--
(aa) by striking
``paragraphs (2) and (5)'' and
inserting ``paragraph (5) and
except as otherwise provided by
subsection (e) of section 4401
of this title,'';
(bb) by inserting ``, in
perpetuity,'' after
``government purpose rights'';
and
(cc) by striking ``modular
system interface'' and
inserting ``key interface of an
item'';
(III) in subparagraph (B), by
striking ``modular system interface''
and inserting ``a key interface''; and
(IV) in subparagraph (C), by
striking ``modular system interface''
and inserting ``key interface of an
item''.
(2) Definitions.--Section 3775(b) of title 10, United
States Code, is amended to read as follows:
``(b) Additional Definitions.--In this subchapter, the terms `key
interface', `modular open system approach', and `module interface' have
the meanings given, respectively, in section 4401 of this title.''.
(e) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Section 3791(c)(1) of title 10, United States Code, is
amended--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``section
4401(b) of this title'' and inserting ``section 4401 of
this title''; and
(B) in subparagraph (D)(iv), by striking ``modular
system interfaces (as defined in section 4401(b) of
this title)'' and inserting ``module interfaces (as
defined in section 4401(f) of this title)''.
(2) Section 4402 of title 10, United States Code, is
repealed.
(3) Section 4403 of title 10, United States Code, is
repealed.
(4) Section 4425 of title 10, United States Code, is
amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 4425. Definitions
``In this subchapter:
``(1) The term `major system platform' means the highest
level structure of a major weapon system that is not physically
mounted or installed onto a higher level structure and on which
a major system component can be physically mounted or
installed.
``(2) The term `weapon system component'--
``(A) means a high level subsystem or assembly,
including hardware, software, or an integrated assembly
of both, that can be mounted or installed on a major
system platform through a key system interface (as
defined in section 4401(f) of this title); and
``(B) includes a subsystem or assembly that is
likely to have additional capability requirements, is
likely to change because of evolving technology or
threat, is needed for interoperability, facilitates
incremental deployment of capabilities, or is expected
to be replaced by another subsystem or assembly
described in subparagraph (A).''.
(5) Section 804 of the National Defense Authorization Act
for Fiscal Year 2021 (10 U.S.C. 4401 note) is repealed.
SEC. 405. QUALIFICATION, ACCEPTANCE, AND SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT OF
PRODUCTS MANUFACTURED USING ADVANCED MANUFACTURING.
(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall establish in the
Defense Industrial Resilience Consortium established under section 401
of this Act a working group to develop recommendations for improving
the policies and procedures of the Department of Defense for the
qualification, acceptance, and management of the supply chains of
products manufactured using advanced manufacturing.
(b) Membership.--The membership of the working group shall include
representatives from government, industry, and academia with expertise
in advanced manufacturing, engineering, the procedures of the
Department of Defense for qualifying and accepting products, supply
chain management, or commercial best practices and business models for
advanced manufacturing.
(c) Responsibilities.--The working group shall--
(1) review the policies and procedures of the Department of
Defense to identity policies and procedures for the
qualification, acceptance, and management of the supply chains
of products that are insufficient for or not applicable to
products manufactured using advanced manufacturing;
(2) identify any changes to the policies and procedures of
the Department required for the Department to benefit fully
from access to and use of products manufactured using advanced
manufacturing; and
(3) develop recommendations for--
(A) technical guidance with respect to the
qualification, acceptance, and management of the supply
chains of products manufactured using advanced
manufacturing;
(B) policies and procedures for the qualification,
acceptance, and management of the supply chains of such
products;
(C) changes to any other policies and procedures of
the Department identified under paragraph (2); and
(D) training to enhance the knowledge and
experience of the workforce of the Department of
Defense with advanced manufacturing, including the
benefits, limitations, and commercial best practices
and business models for designing, developing, and
using products manufactured using advanced
manufacturing.
(d) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment, the
Secretary of Defense shall submit to Congress--
(1) a report on the recommendations developed by the
working group under subsection (c)(3) and the actions taken by
the Secretary to better enable to the Department of Defense to
access and use products manufactured using advanced
manufacturing; and
(2) a recommendation whether to continue or terminate the
working group.
(e) Working Group Defined.--In this section, the term ``working
group'' means the working group established under subsection (a).
SEC. 406. AMENDMENTS TO THE PROCUREMENT TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM.
Chapter 388 of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in section 4952--
(A) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) as
paragraphs (2) and (3);
(B) by inserting before paragraph (2), as so
redesignated, the following new paragraph:
``(1) to support the growth and resiliency of the
industrial base by accelerating innovation, fostering ingenuity
of business entities, and establishing resilient supply
chains;'';
(C) in paragraph (2), as so redesignated, by
striking ``and'' at the end;
(D) in paragraph (3), as so redesignated, by
striking the period at the end and inserting ``; and'';
and
(E) by inserting after paragraph (3) the following
new paragraph:
``(4) to mitigate costs of entry for business entities that
improve the technology capabilities of the Department of
Defense.''; and
(2) in section 4961--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking ``and'' at the
end;
(B) in paragraph (2)(B), by striking the period at
the end and inserting ``; and''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following new
paragraph:
``(3) an amount determined appropriate by the Secretary to
establish one or more centers of excellence to provide to
individuals or eligible entities that provide procurement
technical assistance pursuant to this chapter training
necessary to fulfill the purpose of the program under section
4952 of this title.''.
SEC. 407. REPORT ON SURGE CAPACITY IN THE DEFENSE INDUSTRIAL BASE.
(a) Report Required.--Not later than March 1, 2026, the Assistant
Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy and the Director of
Defense Pricing, Contracting, and Acquisition Policy shall jointly
submit to the congressional defense committees a report on efforts to
identify and address regulations or policies that discourage or prevent
contractors of the Department of Defense from maintaining or investing
in surge capacity.
(b) Elements.--The report required subsection (a) shall include the
following:
(1) A discussion of any efforts by United States DOGE
Service (commonly referred to as the ``Department of Government
Efficiency'' or ``DOGE''), acting in coordination with the
Office of the Secretary of Defense, to review and address the
barriers described in subsection (a)(1).
(2) An identification of policies that incentivize
contractors to reduce or eliminate surge capacity, including
section 31.205-17 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation
(relating to idle facilities and idle capacity costs).
(3) Any steps taken by the Secretary of Defense to address
regulatory barriers disincentivizing surge capacity within the
defense industrial base as part of the implementation of
Executive Order 14265 titled ``Modernizing Defense Acquisitions
and Spurring Innovation in the Defense Industrial Base'' (90
Fed. Reg. 15621; April 15, 2025).
(c) Surge Capacity Defined.--In this section, the term ``surge
capacity'' means the ability of contractors in the defense industrial
base to rapidly increase production capacity to meet increased demand
for defense articles and defense services (as such terms are defined,
respectively, in section 301 of title 10, United States Code).
SEC. 408. BRIDGING OPERATIONAL OBJECTIVES AND SUPPORT FOR TRANSITION
PROGRAM.
(a) Bridging Operational Objectives and Support for Transition
Program.--
(1) Establishment.--In meeting the responsibilities of the
Defense Innovation Unit under section 4127(d) of title 10,
United States Code, the Director of the Defense Innovation Unit
shall establish a program (to be known as the ``Bridging
Operational Objectives and Support for Transition program'') to
accelerate the adoption or integration of commercial
technologies into programs of record of the Department of
Defense.
(2) Program execution.--Not later than 90 days after the
date of the enactment of this subsection, the Director shall
issue guidance on the BOOST program, including guidance to do
the following:
(A) Enable a customer seeking a technology solution
for a challenge or requirement in a program of record
of the Department of Defense to request assistance
under the BOOST program with identifying and adopting
or integrating such a solution into such program.
(B) Establish requirements for the Defense
Innovation Unit to--
(i) conduct a review of commercial
technologies pursuant to a request described in
subparagraph (A) with respect to a challenge or
requirement of a program of record of the
Department to identify commercial technology
that may address such challenge or requirement;
(ii) provide to the customer that made such
request the findings of such review, including
any commercial technologies so identified; and
(iii) at the request of such customer after
providing such findings to such customer,
conduct development, experimentation, or
integration activities in coordination with
such customer to support or enable the adoption
or integration of any commercial technology so
identified into such program of record.
(C) Establish criteria for terminating assistance
under the BOOST program for a customer or with respect
to a commercial technology.
(3) Support to other programs.--The Director shall ensure
the BOOST program works with and in support of--
(A) the program established under section 4061(a)
of title 10, United States Code;
(B) other organizations of the Department of
Defense responsible for accelerating the adoption and
integration of technology in systems or programs of the
Department;
(C) the Small Business Innovation Research Program;
(D) the Small Business Technology Transfer Program;
and
(E) the Joint Rapid Acquisition Cell (as described
in the Department of Defense Directive 5000.71 titled
``Rapid Fulfillment of Combatant Commander Urgent
Operational Needs'' (August 24, 2012)).
(4) Funding.--Subject to the availability of
appropriations, amounts authorized to be appropriated the
Defense Innovation Unit for research, development, test, and
evaluation for a fiscal year may be used for such fiscal year
to carry out the BOOST program.
(5) Sunset.--The authorities and requirements under this
subsection shall expire on December 31, 2030.
(b) Reporting.--Not later than two years after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with
the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and the
Director, shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report
on the effectiveness of the BOOST program in accelerating the adoption
or integration of commercial technologies into programs of record of
the Department of Defense, including--
(1) a summary description of customers and technologies
adopted or integrated into such programs of record based on
assistance provided under the BOOST program;
(2) recommendations of the Secretary to improve the BOOST
program; and
(3) a recommendation whether to continue or terminate the
BOOST program.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``BOOST program'' means the program
established under subsection (a)(1).
(2) The term ``customer'' means a program manager or
program executive officer of the Department of Defense that has
primary responsibility for fielding the system or systems
acquired.
(3) The term ``Director'' means the Director of the Defense
Innovation Unit.
(4) The term ``program executive officer'' has the meaning
given such term in section 1737(a) of title 10, United States
Code.
(5) The terms ``Small Business Innovation Research
Program'' and ``Small Business Technology Transfer Program''
have the meanings given such terms, respectively, in section
9(e) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 638(e)).
TITLE V--DEVELOPING A MISSION-ORIENTED DEFENSE ACQUISITION WORKFORCE
SEC. 501. REPORT ON STRENGTHENING THE DEFENSE ACQUISITION UNIVERSITY.
(a) Assessment Required.--The Secretary of Defense, acting through
the Director of the Acquisition Innovation Research Center, shall
conduct a comprehensive assessment of the Defense Acquisition
University (in this section referred to as ``DAU'') to strengthen the
ability of the DAU to train and develop members of the acquisition
workforce to meet future needs of the Department of Defense. The
assessment shall include the following:
(1) An evaluation of the mission of the DAU and the
alignment of such mission with the objectives of the defense
acquisition system established pursuant to section 3102 of
title 10, United States Code (as added by section 101 of this
Act).
(2) An evaluation of the effectiveness of training and
development provided by DAU to members of the acquisition
workforce to enable such members to effectively implement the
objectives of the defense acquisition system.
(b) Elements.--The assessment in paragraph (1) shall evaluate the
following:
(1) The organization and structure of DAU.
(2) The curriculum and educational offerings of DAU.
(3) The composition of the staff and faculty of DAU,
including an assessment of the diversity of skills, abilities,
and professional backgrounds of such staff and faculty.
(4) The sufficiency of resource and funding mechanisms
supporting DAU operations.
(5) The extent to which DAU uses external experts and
academic institutions to inform and enhance its programs.
(c) Recommendations.--The Director of the Acquisition Innovation
Research Center shall use the assessment required under this section
and the objectives of the defense acquisition system to provide to the
Secretary of Defense recommendations to strengthen the ability of the
DAU to train and develop members of the acquisition workforce to meet
future needs of the Department of Defense.
(d) Report to Congress.--Not later than one year after the date of
the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the
congressional defense committees a report containing--
(1) the findings of the assessment conducted under
subsection (a) and the recommendations provided under
subsection (c); and
(2) any actions necessary to ensure that DAU fulfills its
mission and provides training and development to members of the
acquisition workforce that aligns with the objectives of the
defense acquisition system.
(e) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) The term ``Acquisition Innovation Research Center''
means the acquisition research organization within a civilian
college or university that is described under section 4142(a)
of title 10, United States Code.
(2) The term ``acquisition workforce'' has the meaning
given in section 101 of title 10, United States Code.
SEC. 502. COMPTROLLER GENERAL REVIEW OF THE MANAGEMENT, TRAINING, AND
DEVELOPMENT OF THE ACQUISITION WORKFORCE.
(a) In General.--The Comptroller General of the United States shall
conduct a review of the management, training, and development of the
acquisition workforce to enable the acquisition workforce to
expeditiously provide the Armed Forces with the capabilities necessary
to operate effectively, to address evolving threats, and to maintain
the military advantage of the United States in the most cost-effective
manner practicable.
(b) Review Contents.--In conducting the review required by
subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall evaluate the following:
(1) The current organization and staffing of the
acquisition workforce, including the total number of positions
in the acquisition workforce, a list of such positions
disaggregated by the skills and experience required, and the
number of such positions that are vacant or are filled by an
individual whose skills and experience do not meet the required
skills and experience for such position.
(2) The sufficiency of the processes and authorities of the
Department of Defense for recruiting and retaining the
acquisition workforce, and the use of such authorities to
maintain an acquisition workforce that is optimized to meet
mission requirements.
(3) Trends in acquisition workforce hiring and retention
over the preceding five years.
(4) The impediments to members of the acquisition workforce
receiving training and education, including any lack of
funding, unavailability of required or desired training, and
excessive workload demands that preclude such members from
being able to attend such training.
(c) Report.--Not later than April 1, 2026, the Comptroller General
shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the
findings of the review required by subsection (a), including any
recommendations to improve the management, training, and development of
the acquisition workforce.
(d) Acquisition Workforce Defined.--In this section, the term
``acquisition workforce'' has the meaning given such term in section
101(a) of title 10, United States Code.
SEC. 503. COMPTROLLER GENERAL REVIEW OF MATTERS RELATING TO INDIVIDUALS
ASSIGNED TO A CRITICAL ACQUISITION POSITION.
(a) Review Required.--The Comptroller General of the United States
shall--
(1) conduct a review of the education, training, and career
development programs offered by the Secretary of Defense for
members of the acquisition workforce; and
(2) conduct an assessment of the efficacy of the career
development policies established by section 1734 of title 10,
United States Code.
(b) Matters for Review.--In conducting the review required by this
section, the Comptroller General shall--
(1) review the compliance of the Secretary with the
requirements of section 1734 of title 10, United States Code;
(2) conduct an assessment of the efficacy of the career
development policies and minimum periods of assignment
established by such section 1734 in--
(A) improving the ability of the acquisition
workforce to expeditiously provide the Armed Forces
with the capabilities necessary to operate effectively,
to address evolving threats, and to maintain the
military advantage of the United States in the most
cost-effective manner practicable;
(B) enhancing the knowledge and experience of the
acquisition workforce;
(C) enabling competitive career progression of
members of the acquisition workforce compared to other
members of the civilian and military workforce of the
Department of Defense that are not subject to the
minimum periods of assignment established by such
section 1734; and
(D) the retention rates of members of the
acquisition workforce assigned to a critical
acquisition position, particularly key leadership
positions (as defined by the Under Secretary of Defense
for Acquisition and Sustainment), compared with the
retention rates for other members of the civilian and
military workforce of the Department of Defense that
are not subject to the minimum periods of assignment
established by such section 1734; and
(3) conduct an assessment of any benefits, including
enhanced accountability in leadership and decisionmaking by
individuals in key leadership positions, of a minimum period of
assignment of at least four years to a critical acquisition
position.
(c) Report Required.--Not later than July 1, 2026, the Comptroller
General shall submit to the congressional defense committees
recommendations on--
(1) improvements to education, training, and career
development programs offered by the Secretary of Defense for
members of the acquisition workforce; and
(2) minimum periods of assignment for an individual
assigned as a program executive officer.
<all>