Lessons Learned from the Coast Guard's Acquisition Reform

Sie sind hier: Homepage > Suche

Lessons Learned from the Coast Guard's Acquisition Reform

J. Vojvodich

The Coast Guard has discovered that success with complex systems acquisition is possible. On July 13, 2007, the U.S. Coast Guard took an important step on its acquisition reform journey when it reached initial operating capability of its reorganized Acquisition Directorate, effectively merging the legacy acquisition organization and the Deepwater Program Executive Office, which oversees the Coast Guard's 25-year plan to replace or refurbish all its equipment. The voyage has been challenging but rewarding, as the Coast Guard has uncovered a number of lessons learned that essentially reinforced proven acquisition best practices and put the Coast Guard appropriately in control while assuming the role as the lead systems integrator for major systems acquisition. Coast Guard major systems acquisition is more important than ever, as its annual appropriation for acquisition, construction, and improvement -- funding that is specifically designated for major capital improvements such as the acquisition and rehabilitation of vessels and aircraft -- has tripled over the last decade. Delivering capabilities through goods and services is the fundamental tenant of the Coast Guard's acquisition arm. Without new and refurbished boats, cutters, planes, helicopters, and command and control systems to enable the rescue of distressed boaters, enforcement of laws and regulations, and prosecution of homeland security threats, front line operators would be unable to complete the Coast Guard's mission. However, making mission execution more effective and efficient requires highly integrated, interoperable systems that can be expensive and often push the technological envelope.