Joint Production Accelerator Cell (JPAC)

The Joint Production Accelerator Cell (JP AC) is a new initiative within the Office of the Secretary of Defense, funded under Program Element (PE) 0606775D8Z. Its primary goal is to advance manufacturing technologies and processes that enhance operational readiness across the Joint Force. The program responds to the Department of Defense's (DoD) need for a reliable and diverse supply of weapons systems and supplies, particularly in the face of unpredictable global events that stress munitions inventories and create variable production demands. JP AC seeks to move beyond traditional, program-specific approaches by developing scalable solutions that address capability requirements holistically.

The objectives of JP AC are centered around research, development, and prototyping of advanced manufacturing methods. The program aims to identify and pilot innovative manufacturing technologies that can accelerate the delivery of critical weapon systems. By focusing on surge production capacity and resilience, JP AC supports the DoD's broader efforts to rebuild military strength and reestablish deterrence.

JP AC is designed to identify areas where advanced manufacturing can have the greatest impact, analyze potential approaches in collaboration with piloting entities, and work closely with critical weapons programs to ensure alignment with operational needs. Pilots will serve as pathfinder projects, demonstrating the feasibility and scalability of advanced manufacturing applications. The program will establish partnerships with industry and other government entities to test and refine these approaches.

The ultimate goal is to create a government reference architecture for manufacturing and pilot a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA)-compliant interface. This architecture is intended to promote affordable mass production and interoperability across different weapons systems and suppliers.

A key activity for FY 2026 is the assessment and analysis of advanced, flexible, and scalable manufacturing approaches. JP AC will identify and select pathfinder projects for initial award, focusing on those that offer the greatest potential for improving production agility and cost-effectiveness. The program will also develop guidance on advanced manufacturing and acquisition reforms, informed by the results of these pilot demonstrations. This guidance will help shape future acquisition strategies and ensure that lessons learned are incorporated into broader DoD practices.

JP AC is managed under the Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E), Defense-Wide appropriation, specifically within Budget Activity 6: RDT&E Management Support. The program does not currently have an acquisition strategy or other program funding summary, indicating that its focus is primarily on research and prototyping rather than procurement at this stage. The initiative is classified as a new start in FY 2026, reflecting its role as a forward-looking effort to address emerging production challenges and opportunities.

Collaboration is a central component of JP AC's approach. The program works with piloting entities and critical weapons programs to analyze advanced manufacturing approaches and ensure that solutions are tailored to real-world operational requirements. By fostering partnerships and leveraging expertise across the DoD and industry, JP AC aims to accelerate the adoption of innovative manufacturing technologies and processes. Outcomes of these efforts will include scalable demonstrations, reference architectures, and actionable guidance for future acquisition and production reforms.