Implementing the Defense Message System

Upon final award of the Defense Message System (DMS) contract, a vast implementation effort will be initiated to deploy DMS-compliant messaging to more than 1.5 million Department of Defense (DoD) users. The implementation strategy for this large deployment calls for fielding the capability in several increments. Initial deployment will be limited to sensitive-but-unclassified message traffic, with support for classified messaging being added when the appropriate security mechanisms are available. Due to the magnitude of the Defense Message System program, the DoD will conduct an operational test and evaluation (OT&E) prior to full-rate deployment of each major enhancement. In support of the initial operational test and evaluation (IOT&E), the DoD will deploy DMS-compliant components at several sites throughout the world. This IOT&E will ensure that the DMS meets the DoD electronic messaging requirements. This paper describes the general strategy of the DMS implementation, the actions already taken, and the anticipated issues and challenges facing full-rate deployment