Improving value of strategic defense systems using modular open architecture

Thesis: S.M. in Technology and Policy, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, School of Engineering, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society, Technology and Policy Program, 2017.This electronic version was submitted by the student author. The certified thesis is available in the Institute Archives and Special Collections.Vita. Cataloged from student-submitted PDF version of thesis.Includes bibliographical references (pages 89-91).Modular Open System Architecture (MOSA) has been deliberately pursued in Department of Defense acquisitions of military systems for the last two decades due to its ability to save cost, improve performance, and prolong system lifespan. As defense systems grow increasingly complex and expensive, the risk of unforeseen threat environments becomes more significant and mitigation strategies more important. Considering this uncertainty, the capability to react to new environments quickly and inexpensively is paramount. Modular systems mitigate risks inherent in such uncertain environments by providing flexibility to users. However, a method to quantitatively assess the benefit modularity provides remains elusive. This thesis provides a methodology for analyzing the value of flexibility to users of defense systems with the purpose of revealing how and where open architectures are most beneficial. Using performance modeling, Monte Carlo simulation, and sensitivity analysis the thesis illuminates the power of improving flexibility in complex systems by means of modularity. A specific case study -- the Multi Object Kill Vehicle Anti-Ballistic Missile System -- will be used to demonstrate the capability of the process to facilitate MOSA implementation in defense systems.by C. Barry Wilson.S.M. in Technology and Polic