This panel discusses the Characteristics of Need (CoN) framework which was recently established to accelerate critical multi-domain requirements—specifically across EMSO, NGC2, Intelligence, and Training—from initial to actively fielded capabilities, highlighting streamlined requirements approval processes and the strategic imperative for early industry integration.
The modern multi-domain battlespace demands the rapid deployment of advanced Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations (EMSO), Next-Generation Command and Control (NGC2), Intelligence, and Training solutions. Traditional linear acquisition and requirements models are increasingly insufficient to keep pace with pacing threats and technological churn. By integrating system engineering, iterative stakeholder feedback, and continuous prototyping early in the CoN phase, the DoW aims to bypass traditional bureaucratic bottlenecks.
The panel will detail how utilizing parallel processes and continuous warfighter touchpoints compress the timeline from identifying a capability gap to securing formal requirements approval.
Learning Objectives: Upon completion of this session, attendees will be able to:
- Describe the purpose and structure of the Characteristics of Need (CoN) framework in accelerating critical multi-domain requirements to fielded capabilities.
- Analyze the limitations of traditional linear acquisition models compared to the rapid deployment demands of EMSO, NGC2, Intelligence, and Training solutions.
- Explain how early industry integration, continuous prototyping, and system engineering can bypass traditional bureaucratic bottlenecks in the acquisition lifecycle.
- Assess the impact of utilizing parallel processes and continuous warfighter touchpoints to compress the timeline from identifying a capability gap to securing formal requirements approval.
- Apply iterative stakeholder feedback mechanisms within the CoN phase to ensure rapid deployment of advanced multi-domain solutions.