Modernizing Defense Acquisitions And Spurring Innovation In The Defense Industrial Base

• The President emphasizes the importance of the U.S. military's capabilities and the defense industrial base in maintaining military strength.
• Acknowledges that the current defense acquisition system is outdated, lacking the necessary speed and flexibility needed for future military advantages.
• The objective is to modernize defense procurement and revitalizing the industrial base for enhanced national security through:
  • Accelerated and streamlined defense acquisitions.
  • A revamped defense acquisition workforce promoting innovation and risk-taking.

Key Directives:

• Within 60 Days:

  • Secretary of Defense to submit a reform plan for acquisition processes prioritizing:
    • Use of expedited authorities for acquisitions (e.g., commercial solutions and Other Transactions Authority).
    • Review to eliminate unnecessary tasks and centralize decision-making in the acquisition workforce.
    • Establishment of a Configuration Steering Board to manage acquisition program risks.

• Review Acquisition Regulations:

  • Revise unnecessary internal guidance and regulations while promoting expedited processes.
  • Apply the "ten-for-one" rule for any new regulations.

• Within 120 Days:

  • Develop a plan to reform and train the acquisition workforce focusing on:
    • New performance metrics incorporating commercial solutions.
    • Analysis of staffing needs for effective capability delivery.
    • Creation of field training teams for innovative acquisition practices.
    • Incentivization of the use of innovative acquisition authorities.

• Comprehensive Reviews:

  • Within 90 Days: Complete a review of all major defense acquisition programs (MDAPs) to identify those not aligning with policy objectives, considering potential cancellations for underperforming programs.
  • Within 180 Days: Review the Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System to streamline and accelerate acquisition processes.

Definitions:

• Clarifies key terms related to acquisition processes, such as:
  • Adaptive Acquisition Framework and acquisition program baselines.
  • Commercial solutions and innovative acquisition authorities.

Implementation Notes:

• The order does not affect established executive authorities or OMB functions.
• Actions should be consistent with applicable law and contingent on appropriations.
• No new enforceable rights are created through this order.