Pentagon leaders are developing a plan to reform technology acquisition, with Department of Defense (DOD) Secretary Pete Hegseth proposing to make the Software Acquisition Pathway (SWP) the preferred method for software development. A draft memo obtained by Breaking Defense outlines this initiative, which aims to accelerate software deployment from within six months to potentially days or hours by adopting private sector best practices.
The memo directs the use of Commercial Solutions Openings – a solicitation process developed by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) – that allows the DOD to work with nontraditional defense companies in a more flexible, faster, collaborative manner. Any contracts awarded as a result of this process are handed out as Other Transaction Agreements (OTA), and it prohibits additional restrictive guidance from Department components. It requires the Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and the DIU Director to submit an implementation plan within 30 days.
This initiative is part of the Trump administration’s focus on deploying new technologies and weapons more rapidly. While there is speculation about potential restructuring of offices like the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office, DIU, and Strategic Capabilities Office, defense officials describe these discussions as preliminary “brainstorming sessions” aimed at improving Pentagon efficiency.
Non-traditional tech companies, particularly those focused on software and autonomous systems, are reportedly enthusiastic about these potential acquisition reforms, which could increase opportunities through DIU and similar channels.