Solving the fiscal challenge of real-time cyber capability development: How low-cost cyber capability development can be accelerated through the use of Operations and Maintenance funds and what congress can do to help

Abstract

This paper addresses contract and fiscal limitations in the acquisition process often seen as a constraint on real-time cyber capability development. First, the paper advocates for increased use of Operations and Maintenance (O&M) funds for low-cost cyber capability development. Using the Air Force's Real Time Operations and Innovation model, the paper suggests a near-term solution for other services to expand their use O&M funds for certain types of cyber capability development. Next, the paper outlines a course of action to better define and expand Department of Defense authority to spend O&M funds for low-cost cyber capability development.