Paving the Way for Testing in a Joint Environment: The Capability Test Methodology

Abstract : The very nature of modern warfare necessitates major changes to the way the Department of Defense tests and acquires systems and capabilities. Since most systems today are deployed in joint environments, the testing of a system by a single Service may not be adequate to demonstrate that the system meets the warfighters needs. Future systems, which are expected to operate in a joint environment, should be tested in a realistic joint environment throughout the acquisition life cycle, starting with early experimentation and concept development through the developmental and operational test. The result is an optimally integrated system.