A Case Study: Acquisition Reform and the Joint Primary Aircraft Training System (JPATS) Program

Defense Acquisition Pilot Programs (DAPPs) were established to jump-start the initiatives outlined in the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act (FASA) of 1994. DAPPs were provided legislative authority to implement the provisions of FASA before they were published in regulations, authority to use the commercial item exemptions for non-commercial items and were also given expedited deviation authority from the FAR/DFARS and the DOD 5000 series regulations. The Joint Primary Aircraft Training System (JPATS) was designated a pilot program by the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition Reform. The purpose of this paper is to provide insight into the Joint Primary Aircraft Training System (JPATS) acquisition and describe, if any, the results of acquisition reform on program effectiveness, cost, schedule, and performance. Eleven metrics were established by the JPATS program and then measured against established baseline programs to derive quantitative savings attributed to implementing acquisition reform. An analysis of those metrics concludes acquisition reform is having mixed results on this program. Only two measures seem successful indicators of acquisition reform, while the remaining nine seem to indicate more success is being realized from applying acquisition program management reform efforts highlighted in DOD directives than statutory and regulatory relief provided DAPPs.