A Model for the Application of Test and Evaluation Concepts by the Air Element of the Canadian Forces During the Materiel Acquisition and Support Lifecycle

Recent experience has proven that the Test and Evaluation (T&E) terms and responsibilities described in Department of National Defence and Canadian Forces policies and orders – particularly those related to the Category flight test system – are poorly understood and frequently in conflict with contemporary approaches to Materiel Acquisition & Support. As a result, financial and airworthiness authorities may not be recognizing the benefits inherent to the timely application of T&E by the Air element of the Canadian Forces during the Materiel Acquisition & Support lifecycle. At the same time, the on-going inconsistent application of T&E is resulting in frustration between T&E agents and project managers, in the inefficient use of resources, and in delays in achieving project objectives.

This paper proposes a rationalized model for Air T&E as it relates to the Materiel Acquisition & Support lifecycle. The model has been developed by linking legal requirements and the Department of National Defence accountability framework with T&E concepts that are consistent with current airworthiness and financial management policies, and with Materiel Acquisition & Support milestones.

Implementation of these Air T&E concepts will provide clarity and consistency to Materiel Acquisition & Support processes leading to needed operational capability being fielded as quickly and cost effectively as possible; project management staff and Air T&E agents will benefit from a common basis from which to plan T&E activities. Additionally, clarification of the associated roles and responsibilities will focus available resources where they are needed, and when they will have the most consequence.