Abstract

The article looks at a number of issues related to the reform of the U.S. government procurement system, which has been prepared by the Advisory Panel on Streamlining and Codifying Acquisition Regulations – Section 809 Panel. The panel was mandated to have at least nine individuals who were recognized experts in acquisition and procurement policy, with the stipulation that members should reflect diverse experiences from the public and private sectors. The goals of the Section 809 Panel were outlined in the National Defense Authorization Act and covered such matters as: reviewing the acquisition regulations applicable to the DoD with a view toward streamlining and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the defence acquisition process and maintaining defence technology advantage; establishing and administering appropriate buyer and seller relationships in the procurement system; improving the functioning of the acquisition system; and ensuring the continued financial and ethical integrity of defence procurement programmes.

From its inception in August 2016 to its conclusion in July 2019, the Section 809 panel has published an Interim Report and a three-volume Final Report, containing a total of 98 recommendations aimed at changing the overall structure and operations of defence acquisitions, both strategically and tactically. The panel’s 98 recommendations reveal how the Department of Defense can put its acquisition system on a war footing and adopt a mission-first approach.