Acoustic Rapid COTS Insertion: A Case Study in Modular Open Systems Approach for Spiral Development

Acoustic rapid COTS insertion (A-RCI) is a success story in the use of modular open systems approach (MOSA)/open architecture (OA)-beginning with towed-array sonar on 688 Class Submarines and later encompassing all sonar systems on all attack submarines, some surface ship sonar applications and even aviation anti-submarine warfare. The DoD has long considered open systems design a "best practice" that should be used during system development. However, as is often the case with best practices, the "lessons learned" have not been trumpeted widely across DoD acquisition organizations. The purpose of this A-RCI case study is to create a learning vehicle for the application of MOSA OA which then could be used for the training and education of acquisition practitioners and future acquisition leaders.