Initial Operational Test & Evaluation

The Initial Operational Test & Evaluation program is designed to support the Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center (AFOTEC) in conducting evaluations for major weapon systems. The primary goal is to ensure these systems can proceed beyond Low-Rate Initial Production by assessing their operational effectiveness and suitability under realistic conditions. This evaluation process is crucial for making informed acquisition decisions, particularly for Major Defense Acquisition Programs, and involves a comprehensive analysis of critical operational issues.

The program encompasses various testing activities, including Multiservice Operational Test and Evaluation and Follow-on Operational Test and Evaluation. These activities aim to address unresolved critical operational issues or complete areas not finished during initial evaluations. Additionally, the program supports Continuous Operational Testing, Early Influence, agile release tests, Integrated Test and Evaluation, Operational Utility Evaluations, Early Operational Assessments, and other assessments of advanced technologies. These efforts are integral to determining military utility and supporting key decision points before full rate production or fielding.

Specific objectives include planning and executing tests for Air Systems such as the B-2 Military Global Positioning System User Equipment and F-15 Eagle Passive and Active Warning and Survivability System. For Weapons Systems, the focus is on programs like the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile - Weapons Data Link and Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile. C4ISR Systems testing includes projects like the Three-Dimensional Expeditionary Long Range Radar and Joint Cyber Command and Control. Combat Support testing involves initiatives like the Air Force Integrated Personnel and Pay System.

The Initial Operational Test & Evaluation program is driven by Congressional and Department of Defense requirements to ensure that systems meet operational criteria before deployment. AFOTEC schedules these tests based on the readiness of program offices involved in major defense acquisitions. This initiative falls under RDT&E Management Support activities, which include efforts to sustain or modernize installations necessary for research, development, testing, and evaluation operations.