The Acquisition of Tomorrow: How Acquisition is Transforming after the AAF

The Acquisition of Tomorrow explores how the acquisition process is transforming after the implementation of the Adaptive Acquisition Framework (AAF). The AAF recognizes that the defense acquisition process should adapt to the unique characteristics of individual programs, and it includes six pathways for tailored acquisition approaches. The Middle Tier of Acquisition (MTA) and Software Acquisition Pathway (SWP) are two recent pathways that embrace commercial best practices. The AAF empowers the acquisition workforce and streamlines bureaucratic processes. The implementation of Capability Portfolio Management (CPM) is also discussed, which aims to optimize defense acquisition by considering capabilities and desired outcomes for decision-making. Here, Cadman emphasizes the importance of data in acquisition, and initiatives such as the Defense Data Grand Prix and the Acquisition Innovation Research Center (AIRC). The goal is to deliver capability faster and more efficiently to the Warfighter while leveraging data and best practices.