Contracting Cone

Major System Development

Design and development of major systems to include DoD Major Defense Acquisition Program (MDAP) systems or subsystems (including national security business systems) supporting military combat utility such as C4I systems, aircraft, ships, ground systems, missile and munitions systems, space systems, etc., acquired under FAR Part 34.

For the DoD, the Major Capability Acquisition (MCA) pathway is used to acquire and modernize military unique programs in accordance with DoDI 5000.85 – Major Capability Acquisition. In particular, Development Contracts are executed in the Engineering & Manufacturing Development (EMD) Phase and Production Contracts are executed in the Production & Deployment (P&D) Phase.

 

Strategies to Explore First

While many of the contracting strategies could apply, the following are well-suited for Defense Acquisition Program Development:

This is NOT an all exhaustive list. Other contract strategies on the Contracting Cone may achieve mission outcomes based upon unique program objectives and constraints.