Information Technology Rapid Acquisition

The Information Technology Rapid Acquisition program, managed by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, is a new initiative in the FY 2026 budget designed to modernize and streamline critical legacy information technology (IT) portfolio management systems across the Department of Defense (DoD). The program is funded under the Research, Development, Test & Evaluation, Defense-Wide appropriation, specifically within the RDT&E Management Support budget activity. Its primary goal is to address inefficiencies and data inconsistencies caused by the current standalone IT systems, which include the Select and Native Programming Data Input System Information Technology (SNaP-IT), the Department of Defense Information Technology Investment Portal (DITIP), and the DoD Information Technology Portfolio Repository (DITPR).

The program's objectives focus on developing integrated business process maps, system design diagrams, and comprehensive data dictionaries. These foundational elements will enable the DoD to analyze existing processes, identify system redundancies, and pinpoint necessary improvements across its IT portfolio management infrastructure. By establishing a baseline for modernization, the program aims to create a more unified and homogenous data and reporting environment. This will facilitate the delivery of timely, accurate, and transparent information to DoD leadership for decision-making purposes.

Another key goal of the program is to support the development of enterprise-wide IT strategies, policies, and architectures. This includes contributing to the implementation of the DoD's software modernization plan, which seeks to streamline business systems and ensure that IT investments are aligned with broader departmental objectives. The program is intended to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of IT investments, thereby enhancing the overall management of the DoD's information enterprise.

For FY 2026, the program is a new start, reflecting a reduction from the previous President's Budget due to compliance with Executive Order 14222, which mandates cost efficiency initiatives across government agencies. The funding will be used to modernize IT applications to improve data delivery and to drive software modernization efforts in accordance with the DoD's strategic implementation plan. No prior year funding or related acquisition strategies are reported, underscoring the program's status as a fresh initiative.

The modernization effort will specifically target the integration of legacy systems, which were originally developed as standalone applications to meet individual data requirements. This has resulted in fragmented data management and reporting capabilities, often leading to inaccuracies and inconsistencies. By consolidating these systems and standardizing data processes, the program seeks to reduce redundancy, improve data quality, and support more effective portfolio management across the department.

In addition to technical improvements, the program will also facilitate the development of new policies and architectures to guide future IT investments and modernization activities. This holistic approach is intended to ensure that the DoD's IT environment remains agile, secure, and capable of supporting evolving mission requirements. The emphasis on business process mapping and system design reflects the program's commitment to foundational improvements that will have long-term benefits for the department.