Defense Science Board 1986 Summer Study: Use of Commercial Components in Military Equipment

摘要

Following the Packard Commission recommendations to increase the use of commercial equipment for military needs, this DSB summer study panel was asked by the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and performance trade-offs involved in doing so and to recommend specific ways to accomplish it. This was to include: past program comparisons of mil-spec vs. commercial; potential risks such as logistics issues, data rights etc.; identification of impediments to commericial acquisition; and specific recommendations for action. It was quickly determined that this issue could not be addressed without also looking at the differences between how commercial items are bought, and how defense equipment is specified and purchased. This determination resulted in the expansion of our charter to consider both commercial products and commercial practices, and their strong inter-relationship.