CHAPTER 87—DEFENSE ACQUISITION WORKFORCE

        

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2019—Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(f)(3)(B), (j)(7)(B), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1518, 1519, substituted "Acquisition Positions And Acquisition Workforce Career Fields" for "Defense Acquisition Positions" in item for subchapter II and "Critical Acquisition Positions" for "Acquisition Corps" in item for subchapter III.

1991—Pub. L. 102–25, title VII, §704(b)(1), Apr. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 119, made technical amendment to directory language of Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1638, which enacted this chapter.

SUBCHAPTER I—GENERAL AUTHORITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

        

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2021—Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title X, §1081(a)(30), title XI, §1114(b), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3872, 3895, added items 1701b and 1702 and struck out former item 1702 "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics: authorities and responsibilities".

2019—Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title X, §1010(a)(2)(B), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1576, substituted "Department of Defense Acquisition Workforce Development Account" for "Department of Defense Acquisition Workforce Development Fund" in item 1705.

2013—Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title VIII, §824(a)(2), Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1833, added item 1706.

2011—Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title VIII, §871(b), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4300, added item 1701a.

2008—Pub. L. 110–181, div. A, title VIII, §852(a)(2), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 250, added item 1705.

2003—Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §836(1), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1551, struck out items 1703 "Director of Acquisition Education, Training, and Career Development", 1705 "Directors of Acquisition Career Management in the military departments", 1706 "Acquisition career program boards", and 1707 "Personnel in the Office of the Secretary of Defense and in the Defense Agencies".

2001—Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(b)(3)(B), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1225, substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics: authorities and responsibilities" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology: authorities and responsibilities" in item 1702.

1993—Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title IX, §904(d)(2), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1728, inserted "and Technology" after "Acquisition" in item 1702.

¹ New section 1707 enacted by Pub. L. 116–283 without corresponding amendment of subchapter analysis.

§1701. Management policies

(a) Policies and Procedures.—The Secretary of Defense shall establish policies and procedures for the effective management (including accession, education, training, and career development) of persons serving in acquisition positions in the Department of Defense.

(b) Uniform Implementation.—The Secretary shall ensure that, to the maximum extent practicable, acquisition workforce policies and procedures established in accordance with this chapter are uniform in their implementation throughout the Department of Defense.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1638.)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1211, Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1667, provided that: "Except as otherwise provided in this title [see Short Title note below], this title and the amendments made by this title, including chapter 87 of title 10, United States Code (as added by section 1202), shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 5, 1990]."

Short Title

Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1201, Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1638, provided that: "This title [enacting this chapter, sections 5379 and 5380 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees, and section 317 of Title 37, Pay and Allowances of the Uniformed Services, amending sections 101 and 2435 of this title and sections 4107, 4301, 5102, 5532, 5724, 5742, 5924, 5942, 8344, and 8468 of Title 5, repealing sections 1621 to 1624 of this title, enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and sections 1621 to 1623, 1705, 1721, 1722, 1724, 1733, 1734, 1746, 1761, 1762, and 2435 of this title, sections 3326, 5380, and 5532 of Title 5, and section 317 of Title 37, and repealing provisions set out as a note under section 2304 of this title] may be cited as the 'Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act'."

Regulations

Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1210(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1667, provided that: "Unless otherwise provided in this title [see Short Title note above] and in subsection (b) [set out below], the Secretary of Defense shall promulgate regulations to implement this title and the amendments made by this title not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 5, 1990]."

Principal Technology Transition Advisor

Pub. L. 118–31, div. A, title VIII, §806, Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 317, provided that:

"(a) Designation.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 22, 2023], each service acquisition executive of a military department shall designate a Principal Technology Transition Advisor who shall advise each Secretary of a military department on the transition of technologies, including technologies from science and technology programs of the Department, private commercial entities, research institutions, and universities, to fulfill identified and potential warfighter requirements for the military department.

"(b) Advisor Status.—The Principal Technology Transition Advisor of a military department designated under subsection (a) shall be a member of the Senior Executive Service or a general officer and directly report to the service acquisition executive of such military department.

"(c) Responsibilities.—The Principal Technology Transition Advisor of a military department designated under subsection (a) shall do the following:

"(1) Identify technologies being researched, developed, tested, or evaluated by science and technology programs of the Department, including Defense research facilities (as defined in section 4125(b) of title 10, United States Code), that the military department may use to meet identified and potential warfighter requirements, including technologies for which the Department owns and maintains the intellectual property rights.

"(2) Consult with Department of Defense innovation programs to identify technologies from private commercial entities, research institutions, universities, and other entities that the military department may use to meet identified and potential warfighter requirements.

"(3) Make recommendations to the service acquisition executive of the military department regarding the acquisition of technologies identified under paragraphs (1) and (2) for acquisition decisions at the service acquisition executive level.

"(4) Inform program managers (as defined in section 1737 of title 10, United States Code) and other relevant acquisition officials of the military department of relevant technologies identified under paragraphs (1) and (2).

"(5) Develop policies and processes for promoting to small business concerns (as defined under section 3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632)) and nontraditional defense contractors (as defined in section 3014 of title 10, United States Code) opportunities to license intellectual property developed by the Department, including opportunities and methods for small business concerns and nontraditional defense contractors to engage with the Department regarding such licensing.

"(6) Develop and maintain metrics tracking the outcomes of projects and other activities of the military department for which the military department expended amounts designated as budget activity 3 (Advanced Technology Development), budget activity 4 (Advanced Component Development and Prototypes), and budget activity 5 (System Development and Demonstration), as those budget activity classifications are set forth in volume 2B, chapter 5 of the Department of Defense Financial Management Regulation (DOD 7000.14-R).

"(d) Congressional Report.—Not later than one year after the designation of the Principal Technology Transition Advisor of a military department under subsection (a), and annually thereafter, the Principal Technology Transition Advisor of such military department shall submit to Congress a report on the following for the one-year period preceding the submission of the report:

"(1) The activities of the Principal Technology Transition Advisor.

"(2) The outcomes of projects and other activities described in subsection (c)(6), including the metrics described in such subsection.

"(e) Definitions.—In this section—

"(1) the term 'Department' means the Department of Defense;

"(2) the term 'Department of Defense innovation programs' means the Defense Innovation Unit of the Department of Defense, AFWERX of the Air Force, and other programs sponsored by the Department of Defense, or any component thereof, with a focus on accelerating the adoption of emerging technologies for mission-relevant applications or innovation; and

"(3) the terms 'military department' and 'service acquisition executive' have the meanings given such terms in section 101(a) of title 10, United States Code."

Acquisition Workforce Incentives Relating to Training on, and Agreements With, Certain Start-Up Businesses

Pub. L. 117–263, div. A, title VIII, §834, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 2713, provided that:

"(a) Training.—

"(1) Curricula.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 23, 2022], the Director of the Acquisition Innovation Research Center shall make recommendations on one or more curricula for members of the acquisition workforce on financing and operations of start-up businesses, which may include the development of new curricula, the modification of existing curricula, or the adoption of curricula from another agency, academia, or the private sector.

"(2) Elements.—Courses under curricula recommended under paragraph (1) shall be offered with varying course lengths and level of study.

"(3) Incentives.—The Secretary of Defense shall develop a program to offer incentives to a member of the acquisition workforce that completes a curriculum developed, modified, or adopted under paragraph (1).

"(4) Additional training materials.—In recommending curricula under paragraph (1), the Director of the Acquisition Innovation Research Center shall consider and incorporate appropriate training materials from university, college, trade-school, or private-sector curricula in business, law, or public policy.

"(b) Exchanges.—

"(1) In general.—The Secretary of Defense shall establish a pilot program under which the Secretary shall, in accordance with section 1599g of title 10, United States Code, arrange for the temporary assignment of—

"(A) one or more members of the acquisition workforce to a start-up business; or

"(B) an employee of a start-up business to an office of the Department of Defense.

"(2) Priority.—The Secretary shall prioritize for participation in the pilot program described under paragraph (1)(A) members of the acquisition workforce who have completed a curriculum required under paragraph (1) [probably means par. (1) of subsec. (a)].

"(3) Termination.—The Secretary may not carry out the pilot program authorized by this subsection after the date that is three years after the date of the enactment of this Act.

"(c) Conferences.—The Secretary of Defense shall identify existing conferences sponsored by the Department of Defense that might be expanded to include opportunities for sharing knowledge and best practices on software acquisition issues. Such opportunities shall maximize participation between members of the acquisition workforce, employees of start-up businesses, and investors in start-up businesses.

"(d) Pilot Program.—

"(1) Establishment.—Not later than 18 months after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 23, 2022], the Secretary of Defense shall establish a pilot program to test the feasibility of innovative approaches to negotiating and establishing intellectual property and data rights in agreements with start-up businesses for the procurement of software and software-embedded systems.

"(2) Authority.—To the maximum extent practicable, the Secretary shall—

"(A) ensure that a member of the acquisition workforce who has completed a curriculum required under subsection (a) is able to exercise authority to apply an approach described in paragraph (1); and

"(B) provide incentives to such member to exercise such authority.

"(3) Elements.—An approach described in paragraph (1) shall include the following:

"(A) Flexible and tailored requirements relating to the acquisition and licensing of intellectual property and data rights in the software and software-embedded systems to be acquired under the agreement.

"(B) An identification and definition of the technical interoperability standards required for such software and software-embedded systems.

"(C) Flexible mechanisms for access and delivery of code for such software, including documentation of the costs and benefits of each such mechanism.

"(4) Termination.—The Secretary may not carry out the pilot program authorized by this subsection after the date that is 5 years after the date of the enactment of this Act.

"(e) Definitions.—In this section:

"(1) The term 'Acquisition Innovation Research Center' means the acquisition research organization within a civilian college or university that is described under section 4142(a) of title 10, United States Code.

"(2) The term 'acquisition workforce' has the meaning given in section 101 of title 10, United States Code.

"(3) The term 'start-up business' means a small business that has been in existence for 5 years or less."

Continuation of Pay

Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title XI, §1114(c)(2), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3895, provided that: "The repeal in paragraph (1) [repealing section 1111 of Pub. L. 114–92, formerly set out as a note below] shall not be interpreted to prohibit the payment of basic pay at rates fixed under such section 1111 before the date of the enactment of this Act [Jan. 1, 2021] for positions having terms that continue after that date."

Exchange Program for Acquisition Workforce Employees

Pub. L. 115–232, div. A, title VIII, §884, Aug. 13, 2018, 132 Stat. 1915, provided that:

"(a) Program Authorized.—The Secretary of Defense shall establish an exchange program under which the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall arrange for the temporary assignment of civilian personnel in the Department of Defense acquisition workforce.

"(b) Purposes.—The purposes of the exchange program established pursuant to subsection (a) are—

"(1) to familiarize personnel from the acquisition workforce with the equities, priorities, processes, culture, and workforce of the acquisition-related defense agencies;

"(2) to enable participants in the exchange program to return the expertise gained through their exchanges to their original organizations; and

"(3) to improve communication between and integration of the organizations that support the policy, implementation, and oversight of defense acquisition through lasting relationships.

"(c) Participants.—

"(1) Number of participants.—The Under Secretary shall select not less than 10 and no more than 20 participants per year for participation in the exchange program established under subsection (a).

"(2) Criteria for selection.—The Under Secretary shall select participants for the exchange program established under subsection (a) from among mid-career employees and based on—

"(A) the qualifications and desire to participate in the program of the employee; and

"(B) the technical needs and capacities of the acquisition workforce, as applicable.

"(d) Terms.—Exchanges pursuant to the exchange program established under subsection (a) shall be for terms of one to two years, as determined and negotiated by the Under Secretary. The terms may begin and end on a rolling basis.

"(e) Guidance and Implementation.—

"(1) Guidance.—Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 13, 2018], the Under Secretary shall develop and submit to the congressional defense committees [Committees on Armed Services and Appropriations of the Senate and the House of Representatives] interim guidance on the form and contours of the exchange program established under subsection (a).

"(2) Implementation.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary shall implement the guidance developed under paragraph (1)."

Pilot Program on Temporary Exchange of Financial Management and Acquisition Personnel

Pub. L. 114–92, div. A, title XI, §1110, Nov. 25, 2015, 129 Stat. 1030, as amended by Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title XVIII, §1806(e)(3)(A), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 4156; Pub. L. 117–286, §4(c)(19), Dec. 27, 2022, 136 Stat. 4356, provided that:

"(a) In General.—The Secretary of Defense may carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of the temporary assignment of covered employees of the Department of Defense to nontraditional defense contractors and of covered employees of such contractors to the Department.

"(b) Covered Employees; Nontraditional Defense Contractors.—

"(1) Covered employees.—An employee of the Department of Defense or a nontraditional Defense contractor is a covered employee for purposes of this section if the employee—

"(A) works in the field of financial management or in the acquisition field;

"(B) is considered by the Secretary of Defense to be an exceptional employee; and

"(C) is compensated at not less than the GS–11 level (or the equivalent).

"(2) Nontraditional defense contractors.—For purposes of this section, the term 'nontraditional defense contractor' has the meaning given that term in section 3014 of title 10, United States Code.

"(c) Agreements.—

"(1) In general.—The Secretary of Defense shall provide for a written agreement among the Department of Defense, the nontraditional defense contractor concerned, and the employee concerned regarding the terms and conditions of the employee's assignment under this section.

"(2) Elements.—An agreement under this subsection—

"(A) shall require, in the case of an employee of the Department, that upon completion of the assignment, the employee will serve in the civil service for a period at least equal to three times the length of the assignment, unless the employee is sooner involuntarily separated from the service of the employee's agency; and

"(B) shall provide that if the employee of the Department or of the contractor (as the case may be) fails to carry out the agreement, or if the employee is voluntarily separated from the service of the employee's agency before the end of the period stated in the agreement, the employee shall be liable to the United States for payment of all expenses of the assignment unless that failure or voluntary separation was for good and sufficient reason, as determined by the Secretary.

"(3) Debt to the united states.—An amount for which an employee is liable under paragraph (2)(B) shall be treated as a debt due the United States. The Secretary may waive, in whole or in part, collection of such a debt based on a determination that the collection would be against equity and good conscience and not in the best interests of the United States.

"(d) Termination.—An assignment under this section may, at any time and for any reason, be terminated by the Department of Defense or the nontraditional defense contractor concerned.

"(e) Duration.—An assignment under this section shall be for a period of not less than three months and not more than one year.

"(f) Status of Federal Employees Assigned to Contractors.—An employee of the Department of Defense who is assigned to a nontraditional defense contractor under this section shall be considered, during the period of assignment, to be on detail to a regular work assignment in the Department for all purposes. The written agreement established under subsection (c) shall address the specific terms and conditions related to the employee's continued status as a Federal employee.

"(g) Terms and Conditions for Private Sector Employees.—An employee of a nontraditional defense contractor who is assigned to a Department of Defense organization under this section—

"(1) shall continue to receive pay and benefits from the contractor from which such employee is assigned;

"(2) shall be deemed to be an employee of the Department of Defense for the purposes of—

"(A) chapter 73 of title 5, United States Code;

"(B) sections 201, 203, 205, 207, 208, 209, 603, 606, 607, 643, 654, 1905, and 1913 of title 18, United States Code, and any other conflict of interest statute;

"(C) sections 1343, 1344, and 1349(b) of title 31, United States Code;

"(D) chapter 171 and section 1346(b) of title 28, United States Code (popularly known as the Federal Tort Claims Act), and any other Federal tort liability statute;

"(E) chapter 131 of title 5, United States Code;

"(F) chapter 21 of title 41, United States Code; and

"(G) subchapter I of chapter 81 of title 5, United States Code, relating to compensation for work-related injuries; and

"(3) may not have access, while the employee is assigned to a Department organization, to any trade secrets or to any other nonpublic information which is of commercial value to the contractor from which such employee is assigned.

"(h) Prohibition Against Charging Certain Costs to Federal Government.—A nontraditional defense contractor may not charge the Department of Defense or any other agency of the Federal Government, as direct or indirect costs under a Federal contract, the costs of pay or benefits paid by the contractor to an employee assigned to a Department organization under this section for the period of the assignment.

"(i) Consideration.—In providing for assignments of employees under this section, the Secretary of Defense shall take into consideration the question of how assignments might best be used to help meet the needs of the Department of Defense with respect to the training of employees in financial management or in acquisition.

"(j) Numerical Limitations.—

"(1) Department employees.—The number of employees of the Department of Defense who may be assigned to nontraditional defense contractors under this section at any given time may not exceed the following:

"(A) Five employees in the field of financial management.

"(B) Five employees in the acquisition field.

"(2) Nontraditional defense contractor employees.—The total number of nontraditional defense contractor employees who may be assigned to the Department under this section at any given time may not exceed 10 such employees.

"(k) Termination of Authority for Assignments.—No assignment of an employee may commence under this section after September 30, 2019."

Pilot Program on Enhanced Pay Authority for Certain Acquisition and Technology Positions in the Department of Defense

Pub. L. 114–92, div. A, title XI, §1111, Nov. 25, 2015, 129 Stat. 1032, as amended by Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title IX, §902(9), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1543, which authorized a pilot program on enhanced pay authority for certain acquisition and technology positions in the Department of Defense, was repealed by Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title XI, §1114(c)(1), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3895. See Continuation of Pay note above and section 1701b of this title.

Pilot Program on Direct Hire Authority for Veteran Technical Experts Into the Defense Acquisition Workforce

Pub. L. 114–92, div. A, title XI, §1112, Nov. 25, 2015, 129 Stat. 1033, provided that:

"(a) Pilot Program.—The Secretary of Defense may carry out a pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of appointing qualified veteran candidates to positions described in subsection (b) in the defense acquisition workforce of the military departments without regard to the provisions of subchapter I of chapter 33 of title 5, United States Code. The Secretary shall carry out the pilot program in each military department through the service acquisition executive of such military department.

"(b) Positions.—The positions described in this subsection are scientific, technical, engineering, and mathematics positions, including technicians, within the defense acquisition workforce.

"(c) Limitation.—Authority under subsection (a) may not, in any calendar year and with respect to any military department, be exercised with respect to a number of candidates greater than the number equal to 1 percent of the total number of positions in the acquisition workforce of that military department that are filled as of the close of the fiscal year last ending before the start of such calendar year.

"(d) Definitions.—In this section:

"(1) The term 'employee' has the meaning given that term in section 2105 of title 5, United States Code.

"(2) The term 'veteran' has the meaning given that term in section 101 of title 38, United States Code.

"(e) Termination.—

"(1) In general.—The authority to appoint candidates to positions under the pilot program shall expire on the date that is five years after the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 25, 2015].

"(2) Effect on existing appointments.—The termination by paragraph (1) of the authority in subsection (a) shall not affect any appointment made under that authority before the termination date specified in paragraph (1) in accordance with the terms of such appointment."

Direct Hire Authority for Technical Experts Into the Defense Acquisition Workforce

Pub. L. 114–92, div. A, title XI, §1113, Nov. 25, 2015, 129 Stat. 1033, provided that:

"(a) Authority.—Each Secretary of a military department may appoint qualified candidates possessing a scientific or engineering degree to positions described in subsection (b) for that military department without regard to the provisions of subchapter I of chapter 33 of title 5, United States Code.

"(b) Applicability.—Positions described in this subsection are scientific and engineering positions within the defense acquisition workforce.

"(c) Limitation.—Authority under this section may not, in any calendar year and with respect to any military department, be exercised with respect to a number of candidates greater than the number equal to 5 percent of the total number of scientific and engineering positions within the acquisition workforce of that military department that are filled as of the close of the fiscal year last ending before the start of such calendar year.

"(d) Nature of Appointment.—Any appointment under this section shall be treated as an appointment on a full-time equivalent basis, unless such appointment is made on a term or temporary basis.

"(e) Employee Defined.—In this section, the term 'employee' has the meaning given that term in section 2105 of title 5, United States Code.

"(f) Termination.—The authority to make appointments under this section shall not be available after December 31, 2020."

Coordination of Human Systems Integration Activities Related to Acquisition Programs

Pub. L. 110–181, div. A, title II, §231, Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 45, as amended by Pub. L. 115–232, div. A, title VIII, §811(f), Aug. 13, 2018, 132 Stat. 1845; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title IX, §902(10), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1543, provided that: "The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, shall coordinate and manage human systems integration activities throughout the acquisition programs of the Department of Defense."

Requirements for Senior Department of Defense Officials Seeking Employment With Defense Contractors

Pub. L. 110–181, div. A, title VIII, §847, Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 243, as amended by Pub. L. 113–291, div. A, title VIII, §855, title X, §1071(b)(2)(C), Dec. 19, 2014, 128 Stat. 3460, 3506; Pub. L. 117–263, div. A, title VIII, §821, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 2709, provided that:

"(a) Requirement to Seek and Obtain Written Opinion.—

"(1) Request.—An official or former official of the Department of Defense described in subsection (c) who, within two years after leaving service in the Department of Defense, expects to receive compensation from a Department of Defense contractor, shall, prior to accepting such compensation, request a written opinion regarding the applicability of post-employment restrictions to activities that the official or former official may undertake on behalf of a contractor.

"(2) Submission of request.—A request for a written opinion under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in writing to an ethics official of the Department of Defense having responsibility for the organization in which the official or former official serves or served and shall set forth all information relevant to the request, including information relating to government positions held and major duties in those positions, actions taken concerning future employment, positions sought, and future job descriptions, if applicable.

"(3) Written opinion.—Not later than 30 days after receiving a request by an official or former official of the Department of Defense described in subsection (c), the appropriate ethics counselor shall provide such official or former official a written opinion regarding the applicability or inapplicability of post-employment restrictions to activities that the official or former official may undertake on behalf of a contractor.

"(4) Contractor requirement.—A Department of Defense contractor may not knowingly provide compensation to a former Department of Defense official described in subsection (c) within two years after such former official leaves service in the Department of Defense, without first determining that the former official has sought and received (or has not received after 30 days of seeking) a written opinion from the appropriate ethics counselor regarding the applicability of post-employment restrictions to the activities that the former official is expected to undertake on behalf of the contractor.

"(5) Administrative actions.—In the event that an official or former official of the Department of Defense described in subsection (c), or a Department of Defense contractor, knowingly fails to comply with the requirements of this subsection, the Secretary of Defense may take any of the administrative actions set forth in section 2105 of title 41, United States Code[,] that the Secretary of Defense determines to be appropriate.

"(b) Recordkeeping Requirement.—Each request for a written opinion made pursuant to this section, and each written opinion provided pursuant to such a request, shall be retained by the Department of Defense in a central database or repository maintained by the General Counsel of the Department for not less than five years beginning on the date on which the written opinion was provided.

"(c) Covered Department of Defense Officials.—An official or former official of the Department of Defense is covered by the requirements of this section if such official or former official—

"(1) participated personally and substantially in an acquisition as defined in section 131 of title 41, United States Code[,] with a value in excess of $10,000,000 and serves or served—

"(A) in an Executive Schedule position under subchapter II of chapter 53 of title 5, United States Code;

"(B) in a position in the Senior Executive Service under subchapter VIII of chapter 53 of title 5, United States Code; or

"(C) in a general or flag officer position compensated at a rate of pay for grade O–7 or above under section 201 of title 37, United States Code; or

"(2) serves or served as a program manager, deputy program manager, procuring contracting officer, administrative contracting officer, source selection authority, member of the source selection evaluation board, or chief of a financial or technical evaluation team for a contract in an amount in excess of $10,000,000.

"(d) Definition.—In this section, the term 'post-employment restrictions' includes—

"(1) chapter 21 of title 41, United States Code;

"(2) section 207 of title 18, United States Code; and

"(3) any other statute or regulation restricting the employment or activities of individuals who leave government service in the Department of Defense."

Government Performance of Critical Acquisition Functions

Pub. L. 109–364, div. A, title VIII, §820, Oct. 17, 2006, 120 Stat. 2330, as amended by Pub. L. 111–84, div. A, title VIII, §805(c), Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2403; Pub. L. 112–81, div. A, title VIII, §835(a), Dec. 31, 2011, 125 Stat. 1507, which related to government performance of critical acquisition functions, was repealed by Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title VIII, §824(b), Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1833.

Demonstration Project Relating to Certain Personnel Management Policies and Procedures

Pub. L. 104–106, div. D, title XLIII, §4308, Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 669, as amended by Pub. L. 105–85, div. A, title VIII, §845, Nov. 18, 1997, 111 Stat. 1845; Pub. L. 107–314, div. A, title VIII, §813(b), Dec. 2, 2002, 116 Stat. 2609; Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title XI, §1112, Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1634, which encouraged the Secretary of Defense to commence a demonstration project relating to improving the personnel management policies or procedures that apply to the acquisition workforce of the Department of Defense and supporting personnel, was repealed and restated as section 1762 of this title by Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title VIII, §872(a)(1), (b), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4300, 4302.

Evaluation by Comptroller General

Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1208, Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1665, as amended by Pub. L. 102–25, title VII, §704(b)(2), Apr. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 119; Pub. L. 102–484, div. A, title VIII, §812(g), Oct. 23, 1992, 106 Stat. 2452; Pub. L. 104–106, div. A, title XV, §1502(c)(4)(A), Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 507, provided for evaluation by Comptroller General of actions taken by Secretary of Defense to carry out requirements of Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act and submission of annual reports to Congress, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 104–66, title I, §1031(b)(1), Dec. 21, 1995, 109 Stat. 714.

Deadlines for Qualification Requirements

Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1210(b), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1667, provided that: "Not later than October 1, 1992, the Secretary of Defense shall prescribe regulations to implement sections 1723, 1724, and 1732 of title 10, United States Code (as added by section 1202)."

§1701a. Management for acquisition workforce excellence

(a) Purpose.—The purpose of this chapter is to require the Department of Defense to develop and manage a highly skilled professional acquisition workforce—

(1) in which excellence and contribution to mission is rewarded;

(2) which has the technical expertise and business skills to ensure the Department receives the best value for the expenditure of public resources;

(3) which serves as a model for performance management of employees of the Department; and

(4) which is managed in a manner that complements and reinforces the management of the defense acquisition system pursuant to chapter 205 of this title.

(b) Performance Management.—In order to achieve the purpose set forth in subsection (a), the Secretary of Defense shall—

(1) use the full authorities provided in subsections (a) through (d) of section 9902 of title 5, including flexibilities related to performance management and hiring and to training of managers;

(2) require managers to develop performance plans for individual members of the acquisition workforce in order to give members an understanding of how their performance contributes to their organization's mission and the success of the defense acquisition system (as defined in section 3001 of this title);

(3) to the extent appropriate, use the lessons learned from the acquisition demonstration project carried out under section 1762 of this title related to contribution-based compensation and appraisal, and how those lessons may be applied within the General Schedule system;

(4) develop and implement a career path, as described in section 1722(a) of this title, for each career field designated by the Secretary under section 1721(a) of this title as an acquisition workforce career field;

(5) direct continuing education and training;

(6) authorize a member of the acquisition workforce to participate in professional associations, consistent with the performance plan of such a member in order to provide the member with the opportunity to gain leadership and management skills;

(7) develop appropriate procedures for warnings and consequences during performance evaluations for members of the acquisition workforce who consistently fail to meet performance standards;

(8) take full advantage of the Defense Civilian Leadership Program established under section 1112 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010 (Public Law 111–84; 123 Stat. 2496; 10 U.S.C. 1580 note prec.);

(9) use the authorities for highly qualified experts under section 9903 of title 5, to hire experts who are skilled acquisition professionals to—

(A) serve in leadership positions within the acquisition workforce to strengthen management and oversight;

(B) provide mentors to advise individuals within the acquisition workforce on their career paths and opportunities to advance and excel within the acquisition workforce; and

(C) assist with the design of education and training courses and the training of individuals in the acquisition workforce;

(10) use the authorities for expedited security clearance processing pursuant to section 1564 of this title; and

(11) ensure the participation in the public-private talent exchange program established under section 1599g of this title of up to 250 members of the acquisition workforce in each fiscal year.

(c) Professional Certification.—(1) The Secretary of Defense shall implement a certification program to provide for a professional certification requirement for all members of the acquisition workforce. Except as provided in paragraph (2), the certification requirement for any acquisition workforce career field shall be based on standards developed by a third-party accredited program based on nationally or internationally recognized standards.

(2) If the Secretary determines that, for a particular acquisition workforce career field, a third-party accredited program based on nationally or internationally recognized standards does not exist, the Secretary shall establish the certification requirement for that career field that conforms with the practices of national or international accrediting organizations. The Secretary shall determine the best approach for meeting the certification requirement for any such career field, including by implementing such certification requirement through entities outside the Department of Defense, and may design and implement such certification requirement without regard to section 1746 of this title.

(d) Negotiations.—Any action taken by the Secretary under this section, or to implement this section, shall be subject to the requirements of chapter 71 of title 5.

(e) Regulations.—Any rules or regulations prescribed pursuant to this section shall be deemed an agency rule or regulation under section 7117(a)(2) of title 5, and shall not be deemed a Government-wide rule or regulation under section 7117(a)(1) of such title.

(Added Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title VIII, §871(a), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4299; amended Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(a)(1)–(3), (e)(1), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1515, 1517; Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title X, §1081(a)(31), title XVIII, §§1808(d)(2), 1883(b)(2), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3872, 4160, 4294; Pub. L. 117–263, div. A, title VIII, §831(a), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 2711.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2022—Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 117–263, §831(a)(2), substituted "as defined in section 3001 of this title" for "as defined in section 2545 of this title".

Subsec. (b)(11). Pub. L. 117–263, §831(a)(1), added par. (11).

2021—Subsec. (a)(4). Pub. L. 116–283, §1808(d)(2), substituted "chapter 205" for "chapter 149".

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 116–283, §1883(b)(2), which directed that each reference in the text of title 10 to a section that was redesignated by title XVIII of Pub. L. 116–283, as such section was in effect before the redesignation, be amended by striking such reference and inserting a reference to the appropriate redesignated section, was not executed with respect to "section 2545", which was redesignated as multiple sections.

Subsec. (b)(6). Pub. L. 116–283, §1081(a)(31)(A), substituted a semicolon for the period at end.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 116–283, §1081(a)(31)(B), struck out par. (1) heading "In General" and par. (2) heading "Requirements for Secretary".

2019—Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(e)(1), amended par. (4) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (4) read as follows: "develop attractive career paths;".

Subsec. (b)(5). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(a)(2)(A), substituted "direct" for "encourage".

Subsec. (b)(6). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(a)(3)(B), added par. (6). Former par. (6) redesignated (7).

Pub. L. 116–92, §861(a)(2)(B), inserted "and consequences" after "warnings".

Subsec. (b)(7) to (10). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(a)(3)(A), redesignated pars. (6) to (9) as (7) to (10), respectively.

Subsecs. (c) to (e). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(a)(1), added subsec. (c) and redesignated former subsecs. (c) and (d) as (d) and (e), respectively.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2021 Amendment

Amendment by sections 1808(d)(2) and 1883(b)(2) of Pub. L. 116–283 effective Jan. 1, 2022, with additional provisions for delayed implementation and applicability of existing law, see section 1801(d) of Pub. L. 116–283, set out as a note preceding section 3001 of this title.

Deadline for Implementation of Procedures To Institute Certification Program

Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(a)(5), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1516, provided that: "The Secretary of Defense shall implement procedures to institute the program required by subsection (c) of section 1701a of title 10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (1), not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 20, 2019]."

Deadline for Implementation of Career Paths

Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(e)(3), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1517, provided that: "Not later than the end of the two-year period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 20, 2019], the Secretary of Defense shall carry out the requirements of paragraph (4) of section 1701a(b) of title 10, United States Code (as amended by paragraph (1))."

Flexibility in Contracting Award Program

Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title VIII, §834, Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2285, which established an award to recognize acquisition programs and professionals making the best use of flexibilities and authorities granted by Federal Acquisition Regulation and Department of Defense Instruction 5000.02, was repealed by Pub. L. 117–263, div. A, title VIII, §801(c), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 2693. See section 1743 of this title.

Awards for Department of Defense Personnel for Excellence in the Acquisition of Products and Services

Pub. L. 111–23, title III, §301, May 22, 2009, 123 Stat. 1730, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [May 22, 2009], the Secretary of Defense shall commence carrying out a program to recognize excellent performance by individuals and teams of members of the Armed Forces and civilian personnel of the Department of Defense in the acquisition of products and services for the Department of Defense.

"(b) Elements.—The program required by subsection (a) shall include the following:

"(1) Procedures for the nomination by the personnel of the military departments and the Defense Agencies of individuals and teams of members of the Armed Forces and civilian personnel of the Department of Defense for eligibility for recognition under the program.

"(2) Procedures for the evaluation of nominations for recognition under the program by one or more panels of individuals from the Government, academia, and the private sector who have such expertise, and are appointed in such manner, as the Secretary shall establish for purposes of the program.

"(c) Award of Cash Bonuses.—As part of the program required by subsection (a), the Secretary may award to any individual recognized pursuant to the program a cash bonus authorized by any other provision of law to the extent that the performance of such individual so recognized warrants the award of such bonus under such provision of law."

§1701b. Enhanced pay authority for certain acquisition and technology positions

(a) In General.—The Secretary of Defense may carry out a program using the pay authority specified in subsection (d) to fix the rate of basic pay for positions described in subsection (c) in order to assist the Office of the Secretary of Defense and the military departments in attracting and retaining high-quality acquisition and technology experts in positions responsible for managing and developing complex, high-cost, technological acquisition efforts of the Department of Defense.

(b) Approval Required.—The program may be carried out only with approval as follows:

(1) Approval of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, in the case of positions in the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

(2) Approval of the service acquisition executive of the military department concerned, in the case of positions in a military department.

(c) Positions.—The positions described in this subsection are positions that—

(1) require expertise of an extremely high level in a scientific, technical, professional, or acquisition management field; and

(2) are critical to the successful accomplishment of an important acquisition or technology development mission.

(d) Rate of Basic Pay.—The pay authority specified in this subsection is authority as follows:

(1) Authority to fix the rate of basic pay for a position at a rate not to exceed 150 percent of the rate of basic pay payable for level I of the Executive Schedule, upon the approval of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment or the service acquisition executive concerned, as applicable.

(2) Authority to fix the rate of basic pay for a position at a rate in excess of 150 percent of the rate of basic pay payable for level I of the Executive Schedule, upon the approval of the Secretary of Defense.

(e) Limitations.—

(1) In general.—The authority in subsection (a) may be used only to the extent necessary to competitively recruit or retain individuals exceptionally well qualified for positions described in subsection (c).

(2) Number of positions.—The authority in subsection (a) may not be used at any one time with respect to—

(A) more than five positions, in total, in Department of Defense Field Activities and Defense Agencies;

(B) more than five positions in the Office of the Secretary of Defense; and

(C) more than five positions in each military department.

(3) Term of positions.—The authority in subsection (a) may be used only for positions having terms less than five years.

(Added Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title XI, §1114(a), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3894; amended Pub. L. 117–263, div. A, title VIII, §831(b), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 2711.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Level I of the Executive Schedule, referred to in subsec. (d), is set out in section 5312 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

Amendments

2022—Subsec. (e)(2). Pub. L. 117–263 amended par. (2) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "The authority in subsection (a) may not be used with respect to more than five positions in the Office of the Secretary of Defense and more than five positions in each military department at any one time."

§1702. Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment: authorities and responsibilities

Subject to the authority, direction, and control of the Secretary of Defense, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall carry out all powers, functions, and duties of the Secretary of Defense with respect to the acquisition workforce in the Department of Defense. The Under Secretary shall ensure that the policies of the Secretary of Defense established in accordance with this chapter are implemented throughout the Department of Defense. The Under Secretary shall prescribe policies and requirements for the educational programs of the defense acquisition university structure established under section 1746 of this title.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1638; amended Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title IX, §904(d)(1), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1728; Pub. L. 105–261, div. A, title VIII, §815, Oct. 17, 1998, 112 Stat. 2088; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(b)(2), (3)(A), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1225; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title IX, §902(11), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1544.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2019—Pub. L. 116–92 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics" in section catchline and in text.

2001—Pub. L. 107–107 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology" in section catchline and in text.

1998—Pub. L. 105–261 inserted at end "The Under Secretary shall prescribe policies and requirements for the educational programs of the defense acquisition university structure established under section 1746 of this title."

1993—Pub. L. 103–160 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition" in section catchline and in text.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Quick-Reaction Special Projects Acquisition Team

Pub. L. 107–314, div. A, title VIII, §807, Dec. 2, 2002, 116 Stat. 2608, as amended by Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title IX, §902(12), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1544, provided that:

"(a) Establishment.—The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall establish a team of highly qualified acquisition professionals who shall be available to advise the Under Secretary on actions that can be taken to expedite the acquisition of urgently needed systems.

"(b) Duties.—The issues on which the team may provide advice shall include the following:

"(1) Industrial base issues, including the limited availability of suppliers.

"(2) Technology development and technology transition issues.

"(3) Issues of acquisition policy, including the length of the acquisition cycle.

"(4) Issues of testing policy and ensuring that weapon systems perform properly in combat situations.

"(5) Issues of procurement policy, including the impact of socio-economic requirements.

"(6) Issues relating to compliance with environmental requirements."

[§1703. Repealed. Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §831(a), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1549]

Section, added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1639; amended Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title IX, §904(d)(1), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1728; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(b)(2), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1225, related to Director of Acquisition Education, Training, and Career Development.

§1704. Service acquisition executives: authorities and responsibilities

Subject to the authority, direction, and control of the Secretary of the military department concerned, the service acquisition executive for each military department shall carry out all powers, functions, and duties of the Secretary concerned with respect to the acquisition workforce within the military department concerned and shall ensure that the policies of the Secretary of Defense established in accordance with this chapter are implemented in that department.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1639.)

§1705. Department of Defense Acquisition Workforce Development Account

(a) Establishment.—The Secretary of Defense shall establish an account to be known as the "Department of Defense Acquisition Workforce Development Account" (in this section referred to as the "Account") to provide funds, in addition to other funds that may be available, for the recruitment, training, and retention of acquisition personnel of the Department of Defense.

(b) Purpose.—The purpose of the Account is to ensure that the Department of Defense acquisition workforce has the capacity, in both personnel and skills, needed to properly perform its mission, provide appropriate oversight of contractor performance, and ensure that the Department receives the best value for the expenditure of public resources.

(c) Management.—The Account shall be managed by a senior official of the Department of Defense designated by the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment for that purpose, from among persons with an extensive background in management relating to acquisition and personnel.

(d) Elements.—The Account shall consist of amounts appropriated to the Account by law.

(e) Availability of Funds.—

(1) In general.—(A) Subject to the provisions of this subsection, amounts in the Account shall be available to the Secretary of Defense for expenditure, or for transfer to a military department or Defense Agency, for the recruitment, training, and retention of acquisition personnel of the Department of Defense for the purpose of the Account, including for the provision of training and retention incentives to the acquisition workforce of the Department and to develop acquisition tools and methodologies, and undertake research and development activities, leading to acquisition policies and practices that will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of defense acquisition efforts. In the case of temporary members of the acquisition workforce designated pursuant to subsection (g)(2), such funds shall be available only for the limited purpose of providing training in the performance of acquisition-related functions and duties.

(B) Amounts in the Account also may be used to pay salaries of personnel at the Office of the Secretary of Defense, military departments, and Defense Agencies to manage the Account.

(C) Amounts in the Account may be used to pay the expenses of the public-private talent exchange program established under section 1599g of this title.

(2) Prohibition.—Amounts in the Account may not be obligated for any purpose other than purposes described in paragraph (1) or otherwise in accordance with this subsection.

(3) Guidance.—The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, acting through the senior official designated to manage the Account, shall issue guidance for the administration of the Account. Such guidance shall include provisions—

(A) identifying areas of need in the acquisition workforce for which amounts in the Account may be used, including—

(i) changes to the types of skills needed in the acquisition workforce;

(ii) incentives to retain in the acquisition workforce qualified, experienced acquisition workforce personnel; and

(iii) incentives for attracting new, high-quality personnel to the acquisition workforce;

(B) describing the manner and timing for applications for amounts in the Account to be submitted;

(C) describing the evaluation criteria to be used for approving or prioritizing applications for amounts in the Account in any fiscal year;

(D) describing measurable objectives of performance for determining whether amounts in the Account are being used in compliance with this section; and

(E) describing the amount from the Account that may be used to pay salaries of personnel at the Office of the Secretary of Defense, military departments, and Defense Agencies to manage the Account and the circumstances under which such amounts may be used for such purpose.

(4) Limitation on payments to or for contractors.—Amounts in the Account shall not be available for payments to contractors or contractor employees, other than for the purposes of—

(A) providing advanced training to Department of Defense employees;

(B) developing acquisition tools and methodologies and performing research on acquisition policies and best practices that will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of defense acquisition efforts; and

(C) supporting human capital and talent management of the acquisition workforce, including benchmarking studies, assessments, and requirements planning.

(5) Prohibition on payment of base salary of current employees.—Amounts in the Account may not be used to pay the base salary of any person who was an employee of the Department serving in a position in the acquisition workforce as of January 28, 2008, and who has continued in the employment of the Department since such time without a break in such employment of more than a year.

(6) Duration of availability.—Amounts appropriated to the Account pursuant to subsection (d) shall remain available for expenditure for the fiscal year in which appropriated and the succeeding fiscal year.

(f) Expedited Hiring Authority.—For purposes of sections 3304, 5333, and 5753 of title 5, the Secretary of Defense may—

(1) designate any category of positions in the acquisition workforce as positions for which there exists a shortage of candidates or there is a critical hiring need; and

(2) utilize the authorities in such sections to recruit and appoint qualified persons directly to positions so designated.

(g) Acquisition Workforce Defined.—In this section, the term "acquisition workforce" means the following:

(1) Personnel in positions designated under section 1721 of this title as acquisition positions for purposes of this chapter.

(2) Other military personnel or civilian employees of the Department of Defense who—

(A)(i) contribute significantly to the acquisition process by virtue of their assigned duties; or

(ii) contribute significantly to the acquisition or development of systems relating to cybersecurity; and

(B) are designated as temporary members of the acquisition workforce by the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, or by the senior acquisition executive of a military department, for the limited purpose of receiving training for the performance of acquisition-related functions and duties.

(Added Pub. L. 110–181, div. A, title VIII, §852(a)(1), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 248; amended Pub. L. 110–417, [div. A], title VIII, §833, Oct. 14, 2008, 122 Stat. 4535; Pub. L. 111–84, div. A, title VIII, §§831, 832(a)–(g), Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2414, 2415; Pub. L. 112–81, div. A, title VIII, §804(a), Dec. 31, 2011, 125 Stat. 1486; Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title VIII, §803(a), (b), Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1825; Pub. L. 114–92, div. A, title VIII, §841(a), Nov. 25, 2015, 129 Stat. 913; Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title VIII, §863(a), (b), title X, §1081(a)(5), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2302, 2303, 2417; Pub. L. 115–91, div. A, title VIII, §§842, 843(a)(1), title X, §1051(a)(7), title XVI, §1636, Dec. 12, 2017, 131 Stat. 1479, 1480, 1560, 1741; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §863(b), title IX, §902(13), title X, §1010(a)(1), (2)(A), (b)–(d), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1522, 1544, 1576; Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title X, §1081(a)(22), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 1920.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1705, added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1639, related to Directors of Acquisition Career Management in the military departments, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §831(a), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1549.

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 117–81 substituted "an account" for "a fund".

2019—Pub. L. 116–92, §1010(a)(2)(A), substituted "Department of Defense Acquisition Workforce Development Account" for "Department of Defense Acquisition Workforce Development Fund" in section catchline.

Pub. L. 116–92, §1010(a)(1)(B), substituted "Account" for "Fund" wherever appearing except in subsec. (e)(6) prior to its subsequent amendment.

Pub. L. 116–92, §1010(b), substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics" wherever appearing.

Pub. L. 116–92, §902(13)(A)–(C), which directed amendment of subsecs. (c), (e)(3), and (g)(2)(B), respectively, by substituting "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics", effective Dec. 20, 2019, could not be executed because of the identical amendment made by Pub. L. 116–92, §1010(b), effective Oct. 1, 2019. See Amendment note above and Effective Date of 2019 Amendment note below.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–92, §1010(a)(1)(A), substituted "the 'Department of Defense Acquisition Workforce Development Account' (in this section referred to as the 'Account')" for "the 'Department of Defense Acquisition Workforce Development Fund' (in this section referred to as the 'Fund')".

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 116–92, §1010(c), amended subsec. (d) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (d) listed elements comprising the Fund.

Subsec. (e)(1)(C). Pub. L. 116–92, §863(b), added subpar. (C).

Subsec. (e)(6). Pub. L. 116–92, §1010(d), substituted "appropriated to the Account pursuant to subsection (d) shall remain available for expenditure for the fiscal year in which appropriated and the succeeding fiscal year." for "credited to the Fund in accordance with subsection (d)(2), transferred to the Fund pursuant to subsection (d)(3), appropriated to the Fund, or deposited to the Fund shall remain available for obligation in the fiscal year for which credited, transferred, appropriated, or deposited and the two succeeding fiscal years."

2017—Subsec. (d)(2)(D). Pub. L. 115–91, §842, amended subpar. (D) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (D) read as follows: "The Secretary of Defense may reduce the amount specified in subparagraph (C) for a fiscal year if the Secretary determines that the amount is greater than is reasonably needed for purposes of the Fund for such fiscal year. The Secretary may not reduce the amount for a fiscal year to an amount that is less than $400,000,000."

Subsec. (e)(1). Pub. L. 115–91, §843(a)(1)(A), designated existing provisions as subpar. (A) and added subpar. (B).

Subsec. (e)(1)(A). Pub. L. 115–91, §1051(a)(7)(A), substituted "subsection (g)(2)" for "subsection (h)(2)".

Subsec. (e)(3)(E). Pub. L. 115–91, §843(a)(1)(B), added subpar. (E).

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 115–91, §1051(a)(7)(B), (C), redesignated subsec. (g) as (f) and struck out former subsec. (f). Prior to amendment, text of subsec. (f) read as follows: "Not later than February 1 each year, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees a report on the operation of the Fund during the preceding fiscal year."

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 115–91, §1051(a)(7)(C), redesignated subsec. (h) as (g). Former subsec. (g) redesignated (f).

Subsec. (g)(2)(A). Pub. L. 115–91, §1636, which directed amendment of subsec. (h)(2)(A) by inserting "(i)" after "(A)", substituting "; or" for "; and", and adding cl. (ii), was executed by making the amendment in subsec. (g)(2)(A) to reflect the probable intent of Congress and the redesignation of subsec. (h) as (g), see below.

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 115–91, §1051(a)(7)(C), redesignated subsec. (h) as (g).

2016—Subsec. (d)(2)(C). Pub. L. 114–328, §863(b)(1), substituted "in such" for "in each".

Subsec. (e)(1). Pub. L. 114–328, §863(a)(1)(A), inserted "and to develop acquisition tools and methodologies, and undertake research and development activities, leading to acquisition policies and practices that will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of defense acquisition efforts" after "workforce of the Department".

Subsec. (e)(4). Pub. L. 114–328, §863(a)(1)(B), substituted "other than for the purposes of—" for "other than for the purpose of providing advanced training to Department of Defense employees." and added subpars. (A) to (C).

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 114–328, §863(a)(2), (b)(2), substituted "Not later than February 1 each year" for "Not later than 120 days after the end of each fiscal year" and "the preceding fiscal year" for "such fiscal year" and struck out at end "Each report shall include, for the fiscal year covered by such report, the following:

"(1) A statement of the amounts remitted to the Secretary for crediting to the Fund for such fiscal year by each military department and Defense Agency, and a statement of the amounts credited to the Fund for such fiscal year.

"(2) A description of the expenditures made from the Fund (including expenditures following a transfer of amounts in the Fund to a military department or Defense Agency) in such fiscal year, including the purpose of such expenditures.

"(3) A description and assessment of improvements in the Department of Defense acquisition workforce resulting from such expenditures.

"(4) Recommendations for additional authorities to fulfill the purpose of the Fund.

"(5) A statement of the balance remaining in the Fund at the end of such fiscal year."

Subsec. (g)(1). Pub. L. 114–328, §863(b)(3)(B), struck out ", as defined in subsection (h)," after "acquisition workforce".

Pub. L. 114–328, §§863(b)(3)(A), 1081(a)(5), amended par. (1) identically, substituting "of positions" for "of of positions".

2015—Subsec. (d)(2)(C). Pub. L. 114–92, §841(a)(1)(A), amended subpar. (C) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (C) defined the applicable percentage for fiscal years 2013 to 2018.

Subsec. (d)(2)(D). Pub. L. 114–92, §841(a)(1)(B), substituted "the amount specified in subparagraph (C)" for "an amount specified in subparagraph (C)" and "an amount that is less than $400,000,000." for "an amount that is less than 80 percent of the amount otherwise specified in subparagraph (C) for such fiscal year."

Subsec. (d)(3). Pub. L. 114–92, §841(a)(1)(C), substituted "36-month period" for "24-month period".

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 114–92, §841(a)(2), substituted "120 days" for "60 days" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 114–92, §841(a)(3), struck out par. (1) designation before "For purposes of"; redesignated subpars. (A) and (B) as pars. (1) and (2), respectively, and realigned margins; substituted "of positions in the acquisition workforce, as defined in subsection (h)," for "acquisition workforce positions" in par. (1); and struck out former par. (2) which read as follows: "The Secretary may not appoint a person to a position of employment under this subsection after September 30, 2017."

2013—Subsec. (d)(2)(C). Pub. L. 112–239, §803(a)(1), added cls. (i) to (vi) and struck out former cls. (i) to (vi) which established applicable amounts for fiscal years 2010 to 2015.

Subsec. (e)(1). Pub. L. 112–239, §803(a)(2)(A), inserted at end "In the case of temporary members of the acquisition workforce designated pursuant to subsection (h)(2), such funds shall be available only for the limited purpose of providing training in the performance of acquisition-related functions and duties."

Subsec. (e)(5). Pub. L. 112–239, §803(a)(2)(B), inserted before period at end ", and who has continued in the employment of the Department since such time without a break in such employment of more than a year".

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 112–239, §803(a)(3), (4), struck out subsec. (g) which defined "acquisition workforce" and redesignated subsec. (h) as (g).

Subsec. (g)(2). Pub. L. 112–239, §803(b), substituted "September 30, 2017" for "September 30, 2015".

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 112–239, §803(a)(5), added subsec. (h). Former subsec. (h) redesignated (g).

2011—Subsec. (e)(6). Pub. L. 112–81 amended par. (6) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "Amounts credited to the Fund under subsection (d)(2) shall remain available for expenditure in the fiscal year for which credited and the two succeeding fiscal years."

2009—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 111–84, §832(g)(1), inserted "Development" after "Workforce".

Subsec. (d)(1)(B), (C). Pub. L. 111–84, §832(a)(1), added subpar. (B) and redesignated former subpar. (B) as (C).

Subsec. (d)(2)(A). Pub. L. 111–84, §832(b), substituted "from amounts available for contract services for operation and maintenance." for ", other than services relating to research and development and services relating to military construction."

Subsec. (d)(2)(B). Pub. L. 111–84, §832(d)(1), (2)(A), substituted "Subject to paragraph (4), not later than" for "Not later than" and "the first quarter of each fiscal year" for "the third fiscal year quarter of fiscal year 2008, and 30 days after the end of each fiscal year quarter thereafter" and struck out "quarter" before "for services".

Pub. L. 111–84, §832(c), inserted ", from amounts available to such military department or Defense Agency, as the case may be, for contract services for operation and maintenance," after "remit to the Secretary of Defense".

Subsec. (d)(2)(C), (D). Pub. L. 111–84, §832(e), added subpars. (C) and (D) and struck out former subpars. (C) and (D), which established applicable percentages for fiscal years 2008 to 2010 and thereafter and authorized the Secretary of Defense to reduce such percentages under certain circumstances and to a certain limit.

Subsec. (d)(3). Pub. L. 111–84, §832(a)(2), added par. (3).

Subsec. (d)(4). Pub. L. 111–84, §832(d)(2)(B), added par. (4).

Subsec. (e)(5). Pub. L. 111–84, §832(f), substituted "serving in a position in the acquisition workforce as of January 28, 2008" for "as of the date of the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008".

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 111–84, §832(g)(2), struck out "beginning with fiscal year 2008" after "each fiscal year" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (h)(1). Pub. L. 111–84, §831(c), struck out "United States Code," after "title 5," in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (h)(1)(A). Pub. L. 111–84, §831(a)(1), substituted "acquisition workforce positions as positions for which there exists a shortage of candidates or there is a critical hiring need" for "acquisition positions within the Department of Defense as shortage category positions".

Subsec. (h)(1)(B). Pub. L. 111–84, §831(a)(2), struck out "highly" after "appoint".

Subsec. (h)(2). Pub. L. 111–84, §831(b), substituted "September 30, 2015" for "September 30, 2012".

2008—Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 110–417 added subsec. (h).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2019 Amendment

Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title X, §1010(e), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1576, provided that:

"(1) In general.—The amendments made by this section [amending this section] shall take effect on October 1, 2019, and shall apply with respect to fiscal years that begin on or after that date.

"(2) Duration of availability of previously deposited funds.—Nothing in the amendments made by this section shall modify the duration of availability of amounts in the Department of Defense Acquisition Workforce Development Fund that were appropriated or credited to, or deposited, in the Fund, before October 1, 2019, as provided for in section 1705(e)(6) of title 10, United States Code, as in effect on the day before such date."

Effective Date of 2011 Amendment

Pub. L. 112–81, div. A, title VIII, §804(b), Dec. 31, 2011, 125 Stat. 1486, provided that: "Paragraph (6) of such section [10 U.S.C. 1705(e)(6)], as amended by subsection (a), shall not apply to funds directly appropriated to the Fund before the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 31, 2011]."

Effective Date of 2009 Amendment

Pub. L. 111–84, div. A, title VIII, §832(h), Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2416, provided that:

"(1) Funding amendments.—The amendments made by subsections (a) through (c) [amending this section] shall take effect as of October 1, 2009.

"(2) Technical amendments.—The amendments made by subsections (f) and (g) [amending this section] shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 28, 2009]."

Effective Date

Pub. L. 110–181, div. A, title VIII, §852(b), Jan. 28, 2008, 122 Stat. 250, provided that: "Section 1705 of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a), shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act [Jan. 28, 2008]."

Guidance

Pub. L. 115–91, div. A, title VIII, §843(a)(2), Dec. 12, 2017, 131 Stat. 1480, provided that: "Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 12, 2017], the Secretary of Defense shall issue, and submit to the congressional defense committees [Committees on Armed Services and Appropriations of the Senate and the House of Representatives], the policy guidance required by subparagraph (E) of section 1705(e)(3) of title 10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (1)."

Plan Required for Temporary Members of Defense Acquisition Workforce

Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title VIII, §803(c), Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1825, as amended by Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title IX, §902(14), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1544, provided that: "Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Jan. 2, 2013], the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall develop a plan for the implementation of the authority provided by the amendments made by subsection (a) [amending this section] with regard to temporary members of the defense acquisition workforce. The plan shall include policy, criteria, and processes for designating temporary members and appropriate safeguards to prevent the abuse of such authority."

§1706. Government performance of certain acquisition functions

(a) Goal.—It shall be the goal of the Department of Defense and each of the military departments to ensure that, for each major defense acquisition program (as defined in section 4201 of this title), each acquisition program that is estimated by the Secretary of Defense to require an eventual total expenditure greater than the amount described in section 4201(a)(2) of this title, and any other acquisition program identified by the Secretary, each of the following positions is performed by a properly qualified member of the armed forces or full-time employee of the Department of Defense:

(1) Program executive officer.

(2) Deputy program executive officer.

(3) Program manager.

(4) Deputy program manager.

(5) Senior contracting official.

(6) Chief developmental tester.

(7) Program lead product support manager.

(8) Program lead systems engineer.

(9) Program lead cost estimator.

(10) Program lead contracting officer.

(11) Program lead business financial manager.

(12) Program lead production, quality, and manufacturing.

(13) Program lead information technology.

(14) Program lead software.

(b) Plan of Action.—The Secretary of Defense shall develop and implement a plan of action for recruiting, training, and ensuring appropriate career development of military and civilian personnel to achieve the objective established in subsection (a).

(Added Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title VIII, §824(a)(1), Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1832; amended Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title VIII, §812, title XVIII, §1846(i)(3), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3749, 4252; Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title XVIII, §1846(j), as added Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title XVII, §1701(b)(15)(C), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 2134; Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title XVII, §1701(b)(15)(B), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 2134.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1706, added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1639, which related to acquisition career program boards, was repealed by Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §831(a), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1549.

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–283, §1846(j), as added by Pub. L. 117–81, §1701(b)(15)(C), substituted "section 4201(a)(2)" for "section 2430(a)(1)(B)" in introductory provisions.

Pub. L. 116–283, §1846(i)(3), as amended by Pub. L. 117–81, §1701(b)(15)(B), substituted "section 4201" for "section 2430" in introductory provisions.

Pub. L. 116–283, §812(1)(A), substituted "(as defined in section 2430 of this title), each acquisition program that is estimated by the Secretary of Defense to require an eventual total expenditure greater than the amount described in section 2430(a)(1)(B) of this title, and any other acquisition program identified by the Secretary" for "and each major automated information system program" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (a)(14). Pub. L. 116–283, §812(1)(B), added par. (14).

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 116–283, §812(2), struck out subsec. (c) which defined "major defense acquisition program" and "major automated information system program".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2021 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 117–81 applicable as if included in the enactment of title XVIII of Pub. L. 116–283 as enacted, see section 1701(a)(2) of Pub. L. 117–81, set out in a note preceding section 3001 of this title and note below.

Amendment by section 1846(i)(3) of Pub. L. 116–283 effective Jan. 1, 2022, with additional provisions for delayed implementation and applicability of existing law, see section 1801(d) of Pub. L. 116–283, set out as a note preceding section 3001 of this title.

Similar Provisions

Provisions similar to this section were contained in section 820 of Pub. L. 109–364, which was set out as a note under section 1701 of this title prior to repeal by Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title VIII, §824(b), Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1833.

§1707. Cadre of intellectual property experts

(a) Cadre.—The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, shall establish a cadre of personnel who are experts in intellectual property matters. The purpose of the cadre is to ensure a consistent, strategic, and highly knowledgeable approach to acquiring or licensing intellectual property by providing expert advice, assistance, and resources to the acquisition workforce on intellectual property matters, including acquiring or licensing intellectual property.

(b) Leadership Structure.—The Under Secretary—

(1) shall establish an appropriate leadership structure and office within which the cadre shall be managed; and

(2) shall determine the appropriate official to whom members of the cadre shall report.

(c) Duties.—The cadre of experts shall be assigned to a program office or an acquisition command within a military department to advise, assist, and provide resources to a program manager or program executive officer on intellectual property matters at various stages of the life cycle of a system. In performing such duties, the experts shall—

(1) interpret and provide counsel on laws, regulations, and policies relating to intellectual property;

(2) advise and assist in the development of an acquisition strategy, product support strategy, and intellectual property strategy for a system;

(3) conduct or assist with financial analysis and valuation of intellectual property;

(4) assist in the drafting of a solicitation, contract, or other transaction;

(5) interact with or assist in interactions with contractors, including communications and negotiations with contractors on solicitations and awards; and

(6) conduct or assist with mediation if technical data delivered pursuant to a contract is incomplete or does not comply with the terms of agreements.

(d) Administration.—

(1) In order to achieve the purpose set forth in subsection (a), the Under Secretary shall ensure the cadre has the appropriate number of staff and such staff possesses the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to carry out the duties under subsection (b), including in relevant areas of law, contracting, acquisition, logistics, engineering, financial analysis, and valuation. The Under Secretary, in coordination with the Defense Acquisition University and in consultation with academia and industry, shall develop a career path, including development opportunities, exchanges, talent management programs, and training, for the cadre. The Under Secretary may use existing authorities to staff the cadre, including those in paragraphs (2), (3), (4), and (6).

(2) Civilian personnel from within the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Joint Staff, military departments, Defense Agencies, and combatant commands may be assigned to serve as members of the cadre, upon request of the Director.

(3) The Under Secretary may use the authorities for highly qualified experts under section 9903 of title 5, to hire experts as members of the cadre who are skilled professionals in intellectual property and related matters.

(4) The Under Secretary may enter into a contract with a private-sector entity for specialized expertise to support the cadre. Such entity may be considered a covered Government support contractor, as defined in section 3775(a) of this title.

(5) In establishing the cadre, the Under Secretary shall give preference to civilian employees of the Department of Defense, rather than members of the armed forces, to maintain continuity in the cadre.

(6) The Under Secretary is authorized to use amounts in the Defense Acquisition Workforce Development Fund for the purpose of recruitment, training, and retention of the cadre, including paying salaries of newly hired members of the cadre for up to three years.

(Added and amended Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title XVIII, §1877, Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 4291.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1707, added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1639; amended Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title IX, §904(d)(1), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1728; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(b)(2), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1225, related to personnel in the Office of the Secretary of Defense and in the Defense Agencies, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §831(a), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1549.

Codification

The text of subsec. (b) of section 2322 of title, which was transferred to this section and amended by Pub. L. 116–283, §1877(b)–(e), was based on Pub. L. 115–91, div. A, title VIII, §802(a)(1), Dec. 12, 2017, 131 Stat. 1450.

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–283, §1877(b)(1), redesignated subsec. (b)(1) of section 2322 of this title as subsec. (a) of this section and inserted heading.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 116–283, §1877(b)(3), (c), redesignated subsec. (b)(2) of section 2322 of this title as subsec. (b) of this section, inserted heading, inserted dash after "Secretary", and reorganized remainder of text into designated pars. (1) and (2).

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 116–283, §1877(b)(3), (d), redesignated subsec. (b)(3) of section 2322 of this title as subsec. (c) of this section, inserted heading, and redesignated subpars. (A) to (F) as pars. (1) to (6), respectively. Amendment by section 1877(d) was executed to subsec. (c) of this section to reflect the probable intent of Congress, notwithstanding directory language amending subsec. (c) of section "17017".

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 116–283, §1877(b)(3), (e)(1), (2), redesignated subsec. (b)(4) of section 2322 of this title as subsec. (d) of this section, inserted heading, and redesignated subpars. (A) to (F) as pars. (1) to (6), respectively.

Subsec. (d)(1). Pub. L. 116–283, §1877(e)(3), in first sentence, substituted "subsection (a)" for "paragraph (1)" and "subsection (b)" for "paragraph (2)" and, in third sentence, substituted "paragraphs (2), (3), (4), and (6)" for "subparagraphs (B), (C), (D), and (F)".

Subsec. (d)(4). Pub. L. 116–283, §1877(e)(4), substituted "section 3775(a)" for "section 2320".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section and amendment by Pub. L. 116–283 effective Jan. 1, 2022, with additional provisions for delayed implementation and applicability of existing law, see section 1801(d) of Pub. L. 116–283, set out as an Effective Date of 2021 Amendment note preceding section 3001 of this title.

Pilot Program on Intellectual Property Evaluation for Acquisition Programs

Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §801, Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1481, provided that:

"(a) Pilot Program.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 20, 2019], the Secretary of Defense and the Secretaries of the military departments may jointly carry out a pilot program to assess mechanisms to evaluate intellectual property (such as technical data deliverables and associated license rights), including commercially available intellectual property valuation analysis and techniques, in acquisition programs for which each such Secretary is responsible to better understand the benefits associated with these mechanisms on—

"(1) the development of cost-effective intellectual property strategies;

"(2) the assessment and management of the value and acquisition costs of intellectual property during acquisition and sustainment activities (including source selection evaluation factors) throughout the acquisition lifecycle for any acquisition program selected by such Secretary; and

"(3) the use of a commercial product (as defined in section 103 of title 41, United States Code, as in effect on January 1, 2020), commercial service (as defined in section 103a of title 41, United States Code, as in effect on January 1, 2020), or nondevelopmental item (as defined in section 110 of title 41, United States Code) as an alternative to a product or service to be specifically developed for a selected acquisition program, including evaluation of the benefits of reduced risk regarding cost, schedule, and performance associated with commercial products, commercial services, and nondevelopmental items.

"(b) Activities.—Activities carried out under the pilot program may include the following:

"(1) Establishment of a team of Department of Defense and private sector subject matter experts (which may include the cadre of intellectual property experts established under section 2322(b) of title 10, United States Code [see 10 U.S.C. 1707]) to—

"(A) recommend acquisition programs to be selected for the pilot program established under subsection (a);

"(B) recommend criteria for the consideration of types of commercial products, commercial services, or nondevelopmental items that can used as an alternative to a product or service to be specifically developed for a selected acquisition program; or

"(C) identify, to the maximum extent practicable at each milestone established for each selected acquisition program, intellectual property evaluation techniques to obtain quantitative and qualitative analysis of intellectual property during the procurement, production and deployment, and operations and support phases for the [sic] each selected acquisition program.

"(2) Assessment of commercial valuation techniques for intellectual property for use by the Department of Defense.

"(3) Assessment of the feasibility of agency-level oversight to standardize intellectual property evaluation practices and procedures.

"(4) Assessment of contracting mechanisms to speed delivery of intellectual property to the Armed Forces or reduce sustainment costs.

"(5) Assessment of agency acquisition planning to ensure procurement of appropriate intellectual property deliverables and intellectual property rights necessary for Government-planned sustainment activities.

"(6) Engagement with the private sector to—

"(A) support the development of strategies and program requirements to aid in acquisition planning for intellectual property;

"(B) support the development and improvement of intellectual property strategies as part of life-cycle sustainment plans; and

"(C) propose and implement alternative and innovative methods of intellectual property valuation, prioritization, and evaluation techniques for intellectual property.

"(7) Recommendations to the relevant program manager of an acquisition program selected under subsection (a), including evaluation techniques and contracting mechanisms for acquisition and sustainment activities.

"(c) Report.—Not later than November 1, 2020, and annually thereafter through November 1, 2023, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretaries concerned, shall submit to the congressional defense committees [Committees on Armed Services and Appropriations of the Senate and the House of Representatives] a joint report on the pilot program conducted under this section. The report shall, at a minimum, include—

"(1) a description of the acquisition programs selected by the Secretary concerned;

"(2) a description of the specific activities in subsection (c) that were performed under each program;

"(3) an assessment of the effectiveness of the activities;

"(4) an assessment of improvements to acquisition or sustainment activities related to the pilot program; and

"(5) an assessment of the results related to the pilot program, including any cost savings and improvement to mission success during the operations and support phase of the selected acquisition program."

SUBCHAPTER II—ACQUISITION POSITIONS AND ACQUISITION WORKFORCE CAREER FIELDS

        

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2019—Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(f)(2)(B), (3)(A), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1518, substituted "ACQUISITION POSITIONS AND ACQUISITION WORKFORCE CAREER FIELDS" for "DEFENSE ACQUISITION POSITIONS" in heading for subchapter II and "Designation of acquisition positions and acquisition workforce career fields" for "Designation of acquisition positions" in item 1721.

2016—Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title VIII, §866(a)(2), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2306, added item 1725.

2011—Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title VIII, §873(a)(2), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4303, added item 1722b.

2009—Pub. L. 111–84, div. A, title X, §1073(c)(6), Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2474, amended Pub. L. 110–417, §834(a)(2). See 2008 Amendment note below.

2008—Pub. L. 110–417, [div. A], title VIII, §834(a)(2), Oct. 14, 2008, 122 Stat. 4537, as amended by Pub. L. 111–84, div. A, title X, §1073(c)(6), Oct. 28, 2009, 123 Stat. 2474, added item 1722a.

2003—Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §836(2), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1551, struck out item 1725 "Office of Personnel Management approval".

§1721. Designation of acquisition positions and acquisition workforce career fields

(a) Designation.—The Secretary of Defense shall designate in regulations those positions in the Department of Defense that are acquisition positions for purposes of this chapter. The Secretary shall also designate in regulations those career fields in the Department of Defense that are acquisition workforce career fields for purposes of this chapter.

(b) Required Positions.—In designating the positions under subsection (a), the Secretary shall include, at a minimum, all acquisition-related positions in the following areas:

(1) Program management.

(2) Systems planning, research, development, engineering, and testing.

(3) Procurement, including contracting.

(4) Industrial property management.

(5) Logistics.

(6) Quality control and assurance.

(7) Manufacturing and production.

(8) Business, cost estimating, financial management, and auditing.

(9) Education, training, and career development.

(10) Construction.

(11) Security cooperation.

(12) Intellectual property.

(13) Other positions, as necessary.

(c) Management Headquarters Activities.—The Secretary also shall designate as acquisition positions under subsection (a) those acquisition-related positions which are in management headquarters activities and in management headquarters support activities. For purposes of this subsection, the terms "management headquarters activities" and "management headquarters support activities" have the meanings given those terms in Department of Defense Directive 5100.73, entitled "Department of Defense Management Headquarters and Headquarters Support Activities", dated November 12, 1996.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1640; amended Pub. L. 102–25, title VII, §701(j)(1), Apr. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 116; Pub. L. 105–85, div. A, title IX, §912(f), Nov. 18, 1997, 111 Stat. 1862; Pub. L. 115–91, div. A, title VIII, §802(b), Dec. 12, 2017, 131 Stat. 1451; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(d), (f)(1), (2)(A), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1517.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2019—Pub. L. 116–92, §861(f)(2)(A), substituted "Designation of acquisition positions and acquisition workforce career fields" for "Designation of acquisition positions" in section catchline.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(f)(1), inserted at end "The Secretary shall also designate in regulations those career fields in the Department of Defense that are acquisition workforce career fields for purposes of this chapter."

Subsec. (b)(11). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(d)(1), amended par. (11) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (11) read as follows: "Joint development and production with other government agencies and foreign countries."

Subsec. (b)(13). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(d)(2), added par. (13).

2017—Subsec. (b)(12). Pub. L. 115–91 added par. (12).

1997—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 105–85 substituted "November 12, 1996" for "November 25, 1988".

1991—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 102–25 substituted "Activities', dated" for "Activities,' dated" in last sentence.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Deadline for Designation of Career Fields

Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(f)(4), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1518, provided that: "Not later than the end of the six-month period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 20, 2019], the Secretary of Defense shall carry out the requirements of the second sentence of section 1721(a) of title 10, United States Code (as added by paragraph (1))."

Twenty Percent Reduction in Defense Acquisition Workforce

Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title IX, §905, Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1621, required Secretary of Defense to reduce number of employees in Department of Defense acquisition workforce on last day of each of fiscal years 1991 through 1995 below number of employees in such workforce on last day of preceding fiscal year by not less than number equal to 4 percent of number of employees in such workforce on Sept. 30, 1990, and which defined "Department of Defense acquisition workforce", prior to repeal by Pub. L. 102–190, div. A, title IX, §904, Dec. 5, 1991, 105 Stat. 1451.

Deadline for Designation of Acquisition Positions

Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1209(b), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1666, as amended by Pub. L. 102–25, title VII, §704(b)(3)(B), Apr. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 119; Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title IX, §904(f), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1729, provided that the designation of acquisition positions required by this section was to be made by the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology, not later than Oct. 1, 1991.

§1722. Career development

(a) Career Paths.—The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, shall ensure that an appropriate career path for civilian and military personnel who wish to pursue careers in acquisition is identified for each acquisition workforce career field in terms of the education, training, experience, and assignments necessary for career progression of civilians and members of the armed forces to the most senior acquisition positions. The Secretary shall make available published information on such career paths.

(b) Limitation on Preference for Military Personnel.—(1) The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that no requirement or preference for a member of the armed forces is used in the consideration of persons for acquisition positions, except as provided in the policy established under paragraph (2).

(2)(A) The Secretary shall establish a policy permitting a particular acquisition position to be specified as available only to members of the armed forces if a determination is made, under criteria specified in the policy, that a member of the armed forces is required for that position by law, is essential for performance of the duties of the position, or is necessary for another compelling reason.

(B) Not later than December 15 of each year, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall submit to the Secretary a report that lists each acquisition position that is restricted to members of the armed forces under such policy and the recommendation of the Under Secretary as to whether such position should remain so restricted.

(c) Opportunities for Civilians To Qualify.—The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that civilian personnel are provided the opportunity to acquire the education, training, and experience necessary to qualify for senior acquisition positions.

(d) Best Qualified.—The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the policies established under this chapter are designed to provide for the selection of the best qualified individual for a position, consistent with other applicable law.

[(e) Repealed. Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(e)(3), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1227.]

(f) Assignments Policy.—(1) The Secretary of Defense shall establish a policy on assigning military personnel to acquisition positions that provides for a balance between (A) the need for personnel to serve in career broadening positions, and (B) the need for requiring service in each such position for sufficient time to provide the stability necessary to effectively carry out the duties of the position and to allow for the establishment of responsibility and accountability for actions taken in the position.

(2) In implementing the policy established under paragraph (1), the Secretaries of the military departments shall provide, as appropriate, for longer lengths of assignments to acquisition positions than assignments to other positions.

(g) Performance Appraisals.—The Secretary of each military department, acting through the service acquisition executive for that department, shall provide an opportunity for review and inclusion of any comments on any appraisal of the performance of a person serving in an acquisition position by a person serving in an acquisition position in the same acquisition career field.

(h) Balanced Workforce Policy.—In the development of defense acquisition workforce policies under this chapter with respect to any civilian employees or applicants for employment, the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of a military department (as applicable) shall, consistent with the merit system principles set out in paragraphs (1) and (2) of section 2301(b) of title 5, take into consideration the need to maintain a balanced workforce in which women and members of racial and ethnic minority groups are appropriately represented in Government service.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1641; amended Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title IX, §904(d)(1), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1728; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(b)(2), (e)(3), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1225, 1227; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(e)(2), title IX, §902(15), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1517, 1544.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2019—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–92, §902(15)(A), substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition".

Pub. L. 116–92, §861(e)(2), substituted "an appropriate career path" for "appropriate career paths" and "is identified for each acquisition workforce career field" for "are identified".

Subsec. (b)(2)(B). Pub. L. 116–92, §902(15)(B), substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics".

2001—Subsecs. (a), (b)(2)(B). Pub. L. 107–107, §1048(b)(2), substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology".

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 107–107, §1048(e)(3), struck out heading and text of subsec. (e). Text read as follows: "The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the acquisition workforce is managed such that, for each fiscal year from October 1, 1991, through September 30, 1996, there is a substantial increase in the proportion of civilians (as compared to armed forces personnel) serving in critical acquisition positions in general, in program manager positions, and in division head positions over the proportion of civilians (as compared to armed forces personnel) in such positions on October 1, 1990."

1993—Subsecs. (a), (b)(2)(B). Pub. L. 103–160 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Military Positions and Assignments Policy Deadlines

Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1209(c), (d), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1666, provided that:

"(c) Military Positions Policy Deadlines.—(1) The policy required by paragraph (2) of section 1722(b) of title 10, United States Code (as added by section 1202), shall be established by the Secretary of Defense not later than October 1, 1991.

"(2) The first report required by section 1722(b)(2)(B) of title 10, United States Code (as added by section 1202), shall be submitted to the Secretary of Defense not later than September 30, 1993.

"(d) Assignments Policy Deadline.—Not later than October 1, 1991, the Secretary of Defense shall establish, and require commencement of implementation of, an assignments policy pursuant to section 1722(f) of title 10, United States Code (as added by section 1202)."

§1722a. Special requirements for military personnel in the acquisition field

(a) Requirement for Policy and Guidance Regarding Military Personnel in Acquisition.—The Secretary of Defense shall require the Secretary of each military department (with respect to such military department), in collaboration with the Chief of Staff of the Army, the Chief of Naval Operations, the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, and the Chief of Space Operations (with respect to the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force, respectively), and the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment (with respect to the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the unified combatant commands, the Defense Agencies, and the Defense Field Activities) to establish policies and issue guidance to ensure the proper development, assignment, and employment of members of the armed forces in the acquisition field to achieve the objectives of this section as specified in subsection (b).

(b) Objectives.—Policies established and guidance issued pursuant to subsection (a) shall ensure, at a minimum, the following:

(1) A single-track career path in the acquisition field that attracts the highest quality officers and enlisted personnel.

(2) A dual-track career path that attracts the highest quality officers and enlisted personnel and allows them to gain experience in and receive credit for a primary career in combat arms and a functional secondary career in the acquisition field in order to more closely align the military operational, requirements, and acquisition workforces of each armed force.

(3) A number of command positions and senior noncommissioned officer positions, including acquisition billets reserved for general officers and flag officers under subsection (c), sufficient to ensure that members of the armed forces have opportunities for promotion and advancement in the acquisition field.

(4) A number of qualified, trained members of the armed forces eligible for and active in the acquisition field sufficient to ensure the optimum management of the acquisition functions of the Department of Defense and the appropriate use of military personnel in contingency contracting.

(c) Reservation of Acquisition Billets for General Officers and Flag Officers.—(1) The Secretary of Defense shall—

(A) establish for each military department a sufficient number of billets coded or classified for acquisition personnel that are reserved for general officers and flag officers that are needed for the purpose of ensuring the optimum management of the acquisition functions of the Department of Defense; and

(B) ensure that the policies established and guidance issued pursuant to subsection (a) by the Secretary of each military department reserve at least that minimum number of billets and fill the billets with qualified and trained general officers and flag officers who have significant acquisition experience.

(2) The Secretary of Defense shall ensure—

(A) a sufficient number of billets for acquisition personnel who are general officers or flag officers exist within the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the unified combatant commands, the Defense Agencies, and the Defense Field Activities to ensure the optimum management of the acquisition functions of the Department of Defense; and

(B) that the policies established and guidance issued pursuant to subsection (a) by the Secretary reserve within the Office of the Secretary of Defense, the unified combatant commands, the Defense Agencies, and the Defense Field Activities at least that minimum number of billets and fill the billets with qualified and trained general officers and flag officers who have significant acquisition experience.

(3) The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that a portion of the billets referred to in paragraphs (1) and (2) involve command of organizations primarily focused on contracting and are reserved for general officers and flag officers who have significant contracting experience.

(d) Relationship to Limitation on Preference for Military Personnel.—Any designation or reservation of a position for a member of the armed forces as a result of a policy established or guidance issued pursuant to this section shall be deemed to meet the requirements for an exception under paragraph (2) of section 1722(b) of this title from the limitation in paragraph (1) of such section.

(e) Report.—Not later than January 1 of each year, the Secretary of each military department shall submit to the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment a report describing how the Secretary fulfilled the objectives of this section in the preceding calendar year. The report shall include information on the reservation of acquisition billets for general officers and flag officers within the department concerned.

(Added Pub. L. 110–417, [div. A], title VIII, §834(a)(1), Oct. 14, 2008, 122 Stat. 4535; amended Pub. L. 114–92, div. A, title VIII, §842, Nov. 25, 2015, 129 Stat. 914; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title IX, §902(16), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1544; Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title IX, §924(b)(27), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3825; Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title X, §1081(a)(23), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 1920.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 117–81 substituted single comma for double commas after "the Chief of Staff of the Air Force".

Pub. L. 116–283, §924(b)(27)(B), which directed substitution of "the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics", could not be executed because of the intervening amendment by Pub. L. 116–92. See 2019 Amendment note below.

Pub. L. 116–283, §924(b)(27)(A), substituted ", the Commandant of the Marine Corps, and the Chief of Space Operations (with respect to the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Space Force, respectively)" for "and the Commandant of the Marine Corps (with respect to the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, respectively)".

2019—Subsecs. (a), (e). Pub. L. 116–92 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics".

2015—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 114–92, §842(a), inserted ", in collaboration with the Chief of Staff of the Army, the Chief of Naval Operations, the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, and the Commandant of the Marine Corps (with respect to the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, respectively)," after "military department)".

Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 114–92, §842(b)(2), inserted "single-track" before "career path".

Subsec. (b)(2) to (4). Pub. L. 114–92, §842(b)(1), (3), added par. (2) and redesignated former pars. (2) and (3) as (3) and (4), respectively.

§1722b. Special requirements for civilian employees in the acquisition field

(a) Requirement for Policy and Guidance Regarding Civilian Personnel in Acquisition.—The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, shall establish policies and issue guidance to ensure the proper development, assignment, and employment of civilian members of the acquisition workforce to achieve the objectives specified in subsection (b).

(b) Objectives.—Policies established and guidance issued pursuant to subsection (a) shall ensure, at a minimum, the following:

(1) A career path in the acquisition field that attracts the highest quality civilian personnel, from either within or outside the Federal Government.

(2) A deliberate workforce development strategy that increases attainment of key experiences that contribute to a highly qualified acquisition workforce.

(3) Sufficient opportunities for promotion and advancement in the acquisition field.

(4) A sufficient number of qualified, trained members eligible for and active in the acquisition field to ensure adequate capacity, capability, and effective succession for acquisition functions, including contingency contracting, of the Department of Defense.

(5) A deliberate workforce development strategy that ensures diversity in promotion, advancement, and experiential opportunities commensurate with the general workforce outlined in this section.

(c) Key Work Experiences.—In carrying out subsection (b)(2), the Secretary shall ensure that key work experiences, in the form of multidisciplinary experiences, are developed for each acquisition workforce career field.

(Added Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title VIII, §873(a)(1), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4302; amended Pub. L. 112–239, div. A, title X, §1076(d)(1), Jan. 2, 2013, 126 Stat. 1951; Pub. L. 115–91, div. A, title X, §1051(a)(8), Dec. 12, 2017, 131 Stat. 1560; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(g)(1), title IX, §902(17), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1518, 1545.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2019—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–92, §902(17), substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(g)(1), added subsec. (c).

2017—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 115–91 struck out subsec. (c) which related to inclusion of information in annual report to Congress required under former section 115b(d) of this title.

2013—Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 112–239, §1076(d)(1)(A), substituted "subsections (b)(1)(A) and (b)(1)(B)" for "subsections (b)(2)(A) and (b)(2)(B)".

Subsec. (c)(4). Pub. L. 112–239, §1076(d)(1)(B), substituted "or 1734(d)" for "1734(d), or 1736(c)".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Plan for Implementation of Key Work Experiences

Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(g)(2), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1518, provided that: "Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 20, 2019], the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees [Committees on Armed Services and Appropriations of the Senate and the House of Representatives] a plan identifying the specific actions the Secretary has taken, and is planning to take, to develop and establish key work experiences for each acquisition workforce career field as required by subsection (c) of section 1722b of title 10, United States Code (as added by paragraph (1)). The plan shall specify the percentage of the acquisition workforce, or funds available for administration of the acquisition workforce on an annual basis, that the Secretary will dedicate towards developing and establishing such key work experiences."

Enhancements to the Civilian Program Management Workforce

Pub. L. 115–91, div. A, title VIII, §841(a), Dec. 12, 2017, 131 Stat. 1477, provided that:

"(a) Establishment of Program Manager Development Program.—

"(1) In general.—The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretaries of the military departments, shall implement a program manager development program to provide for the professional development of high-potential, experienced civilian personnel. Personnel shall be competitively selected for the program based on their potential to become a program manager of a major defense acquisition program, as defined in section 2430 of title 10, United States Code [now 10 U.S.C. 4201]. The program shall be administered and overseen by the Secretary of each military department, acting through the service acquisition executive for the department concerned.

"(2) Plan required.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 12, 2017], the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a comprehensive plan to implement the program established under paragraph (1). In developing the plan, the Secretary of Defense shall seek the input of relevant external parties, including professional associations, other government entities, and industry. The plan shall include the following elements:

"(A) An assessment of the minimum level of subject matter experience, education, years of experience, certifications, and other qualifications required to be selected into the program, set forth separately for current Department of Defense employees and for personnel hired into the program from outside the Department of Defense.

"(B) A description of hiring flexibilities to be used to recruit qualified personnel from outside the Department of Defense.

"(C) A description of the extent to which mobility agreements will be required to be signed by personnel selected for the program during their participation in the program and after their completion of the program. The use of mobility agreements shall be applied to help maximize the flexibility of the Department of Defense in assigning personnel, while not inhibiting the participation of the most capable candidates.

"(D) A description of the tenure obligation required of personnel selected for the program.

"(E) A plan for training during the course of the program, including training in leadership, program management, engineering, finance and budgeting, market research, business acumen, contracting, supplier management, requirement setting and tradeoffs, intellectual property matters, and software.

"(F) A description of career paths to be followed by personnel in the program in order to ensure that personnel in the program gain expertise in the program management functional career field competencies identified by the Department in existing guidance and the topics listed in subparagraph (E), including—

"(i) a determination of the types of advanced educational degrees that enhance program management skills and the mechanisms available to the Department of Defense to facilitate the attainment of those degrees by personnel in the program;

"(ii) a determination of required assignments to positions within acquisition programs, including position type and acquisition category of the program office;

"(iii) a determination of required or encouraged rotations to career broadening positions outside of acquisition programs; and

"(iv) a determination of how the program will ensure the opportunity for a required rotation to industry of at least six months to develop an understanding of industry motivation and business acumen, such as by developing an industry exchange program for civilian program managers, similar to the Corporate Fellows Program of the Secretary of Defense.

"(G) A general description of the number of personnel anticipated to be selected into the program, how frequently selections will occur, how long personnel selected into the program will participate in the program, and how personnel will be placed into an assignment at the completion of the program.

"(H) A description of benefits that will be offered under the program using existing human capital flexibilities to retain qualified employees, such as student loan repayments, bonuses, or pay banding.

"(I) An assessment of personnel flexibilities needed to allow the military departments and the Defense Agencies to reassign or remove program managers that do not perform effectively.

"(J) A description of how the program will be administered and overseen by the Secretaries of each military department, acting through the service acquisition executive for the department concerned.

"(K) A description of how the program will be integrated with existing program manager development efforts at each military department.

"(3) Use of defense acquisition workforce development fund.—Amounts in the Department of Defense Acquisition Workforce Development Fund (established under section 1705 of title 10, United States Code) may be used to pay the base salary of personnel in the program established under paragraph (1) during the period of time such personnel are temporarily assigned to a developmental rotation or training program anticipated to last at least six months.

"(4) Implementation.—The program established under paragraph (1) shall be implemented not later than September 30, 2019."

§1723. General education, training, and experience requirements

(a) Qualification Requirements.—(1) The Secretary of Defense shall establish education, training, and experience requirements for each acquisition position, based on the level of complexity of duties carried out in the position. In establishing such requirements, the Secretary shall ensure the availability and sufficiency of training in all areas of acquisition, including additional training courses with an emphasis on services contracting, market research strategies (including assessments of local contracting capabilities), long-term sustainment strategies, information technology, and rapid acquisition.

(2) In establishing such requirements for positions other than critical acquisition positions designated pursuant to section 1731 of this title, the Secretary may state the requirements by categories of positions.

(3) The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, shall establish requirements for continuing education and periodic renewal of an individual's certification.

(b) Career Path Requirements.—For each career path, the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, shall establish requirements for the completion of course work and related on-the-job training and demonstration of qualifications in duties and tasks of the career path. The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary, shall also—

(1) direct individuals in the acquisition workforce to maintain the currency of their acquisition knowledge and generally enhance their knowledge of related acquisition management disciplines through academic programs and other self-developmental activities; and

(2) develop key work experiences, including the creation of a program sponsored by the Department of Defense that facilitates the periodic interaction between individuals in the acquisition workforce and the end user in such end user's environment to enhance the knowledge base of such workforce, for individuals in the acquisition workforce so that the individuals may gain in-depth knowledge and experience in the acquisition process and become seasoned, well-qualified members of the acquisition workforce.

(c) Limitation on Credit for Training or Education.—Not more than one year of a period of time spent pursuing a program of academic training or education in acquisition may be counted toward fulfilling any requirement established under this chapter for a certain period of experience.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1642; amended Pub. L. 104–201, div. A, title X, §1074(a)(9)(A), Sept. 23, 1996, 110 Stat. 2659; Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title VIII, §§873(b), 874(a), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4303, 4304; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(a)(4), (h), (j)(8), title IX, §902(18), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1515, 1518, 1520, 1545.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2019—Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(j)(8), substituted "section 1731 of this title" for "section 1733 of this title".

Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 116–92, §902(18)(A), substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics".

Pub. L. 116–92, §861(a)(4)(A), struck out second sentence which read as follows: "Any requirement for a certification renewal shall not require a renewal more often than once every five years."

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 116–92, §902(18)(B), substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics" in introductory provisions.

Pub. L. 116–92, §861(h), struck out "the critical acquisition-related" after "qualifications in" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(a)(4)(B), substituted "direct" for "encourage".

2011—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 111–383, §874(a), amended subsec. (a) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "The Secretary of Defense shall establish education, training, and experience requirements for each acquisition position, based on the level of complexity of duties carried out in the position. In establishing such requirements for positions other than critical acquisition positions designated pursuant to section 1733 of this title, the Secretary may state the requirements by categories of positions."

Subsecs. (b), (c). Pub. L. 111–383, §873(b), added subsec. (b) and redesignated former subsec. (b) as (c).

1996—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 104–201 struck out "Unless otherwise provided in this chapter, such requirements shall take effect not later than October 1, 1993." after first sentence.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Information Technology Acquisition Workforce

Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title VIII, §875, Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4305, provided that:

"(a) Plan Required.—The Secretary of Defense shall develop and carry out a plan to strengthen the part of the acquisition workforce that specializes in information technology. The plan shall include the following:

"(1) Defined targets for billets devoted to information technology acquisition.

"(2) Specific certification requirements for individuals in the acquisition workforce who specialize in information technology acquisition.

"(3) Defined career paths for individuals in the acquisition workforce who specialize in information technology acquisitions.

"(b) Definitions.—In this section:

"(1) The term 'information technology' has the meaning provided such term in section 11101 of title 40, United States Code, and includes information technology incorporated into a major weapon system.

"(2) The term 'major weapon system' has the meaning provided such term in section 2379(f) of title 10, United States Code [now 10 U.S.C. 3455(f)].

"(c) Deadline.—The Secretary of Defense shall develop the plan required under this section not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Jan. 7, 2011]."

Guidance and Standards for Defense Acquisition Workforce Training Requirements

Pub. L. 105–85, div. A, title VIII, §853, Nov. 18, 1997, 111 Stat. 1851, which related to guidance and standards for defense acquisition workforce training requirements, was repealed and restated as section 1748 of this title by Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title VIII, §874(b)(1), (4), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4304, 4305.

Fulfillment Standards for Mandatory Training

Pub. L. 102–484, div. A, title VIII, §812(c), Oct. 23, 1992, 106 Stat. 2451, as amended by Pub. L. 105–85, div. A, title X, §1073(d)(2)(A), Nov. 18, 1997, 111 Stat. 1905, provided that the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology, was to develop, not later than 90 days after Oct. 23, 1992, fulfillment standards, and implement a program, for purposes of the training requirements of sections 1723, 1724, and 1735 of this title, and that the standards were to take effect as of Nov. 5, 1990, and cease to be in effect on Oct. 1, 1997.

§1724. Contracting positions: qualification requirements

(a) Contracting Officers.—The Secretary of Defense shall require that, in order to qualify to serve in an acquisition position as a contracting officer with authority to award or administer contracts for amounts above the simplified acquisition threshold referred to in section 3205 of this title, an employee of the Department of Defense or member of the armed forces (other than the Coast Guard) must, except as provided in subsections (c) and (d)—

(1) have completed all contracting courses required for a contracting officer (A) in the case of an employee, serving in the position within the grade of the General Schedule in which the employee is serving, and (B) in the case of a member of the armed forces, in the member's grade;

(2) have at least two years of experience in a contracting position;

(3) have received a baccalaureate degree from an accredited educational institution authorized to grant baccalaureate degrees; and

(4) meet such additional requirements, based on the dollar value and complexity of the contracts awarded or administered in the position, as may be established by the Secretary of Defense for the position.

(b) GS–1102 Series Positions and Similar Military Positions.—(1) The Secretary of Defense shall require that in order to qualify to serve in a position in the Department of Defense that is in the GS–1102 occupational series an employee or potential employee of the Department of Defense meet the requirement set forth in paragraph (3) of subsection (a). The Secretary may not require that in order to serve in such a position an employee or potential employee meet any of the requirements of paragraphs (1) and (2) of that subsection.

(2) The Secretary of Defense shall require that in order for a member of the armed forces to be selected for an occupational specialty within the armed forces that (as determined by the Secretary) is similar to the GS–1102 occupational series a member of the armed forces meet the requirement set forth in paragraph (3) of subsection (a). The Secretary may not require that in order to be selected for such an occupational specialty a member meet any of the requirements of paragraphs (1) and (2) of that subsection.

(c) Exceptions.—The qualification requirements imposed by the Secretary of Defense pursuant to subsections (a) and (b) shall not apply to an employee of the Department of Defense or member of the armed forces who—

(1) served as a contracting officer with authority to award or administer contracts in excess of the simplified acquisition threshold on or before September 30, 2000;

(2) served, on or before September 30, 2000, in a position either as an employee in the GS–1102 series or as a member of the armed forces in a similar occupational specialty;

(3) is in the contingency contracting force; or

(4) is described in subsection (e)(1)(B).

(d) Waiver.—The Secretary of Defense may waive any or all of the requirements of subsections (a) and (b) with respect to an employee of the Department of Defense or member of the armed forces if the Secretary determines that the individual possesses significant potential for advancement to levels of greater responsibility and authority, based on demonstrated job performance and qualifying experience. With respect to each waiver granted under this subsection, the Secretary shall set forth in a written document the rationale for the decision of the Secretary to waive such requirements.

(e) Developmental Opportunities.—(1) The Secretary of Defense may—

(A) establish or continue one or more programs for the purpose of recruiting, selecting, appointing, educating, qualifying, and developing the careers of individuals to meet the requirement of subsection (a)(3);

(B) appoint individuals to developmental positions in those programs; and

(C) separate from the civil service after a three-year probationary period any individual appointed under this subsection who fails to meet the requirement described in subsection (a)(3).

(2) To qualify for any developmental program described in paragraph (1)(B), an individual shall have been awarded a baccalaureate degree, with a grade point average of at least 3.0 (or the equivalent), from an accredited institution of higher education authorized to grant baccalaureate degrees.

(f) Contingency Contracting Force.—The Secretary shall establish qualification requirements for the contingency contracting force consisting of members of the armed forces whose mission is to deploy in support of contingency operations and other operations of the Department of Defense.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1642; amended Pub. L. 103–35, title I, §101, May 31, 1993, 107 Stat. 97; Pub. L. 104–201, div. A, title X, §1074(a)(9)(B), Sept. 23, 1996, 110 Stat. 2659; Pub. L. 106–398, §1 [[div. A], title VIII, §808(a)–(d)], Oct. 30, 2000, 114 Stat. 1654, 1654A-208; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title VIII, §824(a), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1183; Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §831(b)(1), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1549; Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title X, §1084(d)(14), (h)(1), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 2062, 2064; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(b)(1), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1516; Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title XVIII, §1883(b)(2), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 4294.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The General Schedule, referred to in subsec. (a)(1)(A), is set out under section 5332 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–283 substituted "section 3205" for "section 2304(g)".

2019—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(b)(1)(A), struck out "(A)" before "have received a baccalaureate degree" and ", and (B) have completed at least 24 semester credit hours (or the equivalent) of study from an accredited institution of higher education in any of the following disciplines: accounting, business, finance, law, contracts, purchasing, economics, industrial management, marketing, quantitative methods, and organization and management" after "grant baccalaureate degrees".

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(b)(1)(B), substituted "requirement set forth" for "requirements set forth" in pars. (1) and (2).

Subsec. (e)(1)(A). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(b)(1)(C)(i)(I), substituted "requirement of subsection (a)(3)" for "requirements in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of subsection (a)(3)".

Subsec. (e)(1)(C). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(b)(1)(C)(i)(II), substituted "requirement" for "requirements".

Subsec. (e)(2). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(b)(1)(C)(ii), struck out dash after "shall have" and subpar. (A) designation before "been awarded", substituted period at end for "; or", and struck out subpar. (B) which read as follows: "completed at least 24 semester credit hours or the equivalent of study from an accredited institution of higher education in any of the disciplines of accounting, business, finance, law, contracts, purchasing, economics, industrial management, marketing, quantitative methods, or organization and management."

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(b)(1)(D), substituted "Department of Defense." for "Department of Defense, including—

"(1) completion of at least 24 semester credit hours or the equivalent of study from an accredited institution of higher education or similar educational institution in any of the disciplines of accounting, business, finance, law, contracts, purchasing, economics, industrial management, marketing, quantitative methods, or organization and management; or

"(2) passing an examination that demonstrates skills, knowledge, or abilities comparable to that of an individual who has completed at least 24 semester credit hours or the equivalent of study in any of the disciplines described in paragraph (1)."

2004—Subsec. (a)(3)(B). Pub. L. 108–375, §1084(h)(1), amended directory language of Pub. L. 107–107, §824(a)(1)(C). See 2001 Amendment note below.

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 108–375, §1084(d)(14), substituted "the decision of the Secretary" for "its decision" before "to waive such requirements".

2003—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 108–136 substituted "The Secretary of Defense may waive any or all of the requirements of subsections (a) and (b) with respect to an employee of the Department of Defense or member of the armed forces if the Secretary determines" for "The acquisition career program board concerned may waive any or all of the requirements of subsections (a) and (b) with respect to an employee of the Department of Defense or member of the armed forces if the board certifies" in first sentence and "the Secretary" for "the board" in second sentence, and struck out third sentence which read "Such document shall be submitted to and retained by the Director of Acquisition Education, Training, and Career Development."

2001—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 107–107, §824(a)(1)(A), reenacted heading without change and substituted introductory provisions for provisions which read "The Secretary of Defense shall require that in order to qualify to serve in an acquisition position as a contracting officer with authority to award or administer contracts for amounts above the simplified acquisition threshold referred to in section 2304(g) of this title, a person must—".

Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 107–107, §824(a)(1)(B), struck out "mandatory" before "contracting courses" and substituted cls. (A) and (B) for "at the grade level, or in the position within the grade of the General Schedule (in the case of an employee), that the person is serving in;".

Subsec. (a)(3)(B). Pub. L. 107–107, §824(a)(1)(C), as amended by Pub. L. 108–375, §1084(h)(1), inserted comma after "business".

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 107–107, §824(a)(2), added subsec. (b) and struck out former subsec. (b) which read as follows:

"(b) GS–1102 Series Positions and Similar Military Positions.—The Secretary of Defense shall require that a person meet the requirements set forth in paragraph (3) of subsection (a), but not the other requirements set forth in that subsection, in order to qualify to serve in a position in the Department of Defense in—

"(1) the GS–1102 occupational series; or

"(2) a similar occupational specialty if the position is to be filled by a member of the armed forces."

Subsecs. (c) to (f). Pub. L. 107–107, §824(a)(3), added subsecs. (c) to (f) and struck out former subsecs. (c) and (d) which related to exception to requirements of subsecs. (a) and (b) and waiver of such requirements, respectively.

2000—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 106–398, §1 [[div. A], title VIII, §808(d)], struck out "(except as provided in subsections (c) and (d))" after "a person must" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 106–398, §1 [[div. A], title VIII, §808(b)(1)], inserted "and" before "(B) have completed" and struck out ", or (C) have passed an examination considered by the Secretary of Defense to demonstrate skills, knowledge, or abilities comparable to that of an individual who has completed at least 24 semester credit hours (or the equivalent) of study from an accredited institution of higher education in any of the disciplines listed in subparagraph (B)" after "organization and management".

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 106–398, §1 [[div. A], title VIII, §808(b)(2)], amended heading and text of subsec. (b) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "The Secretary of Defense shall require that a person may not be employed by the Department of Defense in the GS–1102 occupational series unless the person (except as provided in subsections (c) and (d)) meets the requirements set forth in subsection (a)(3)."

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 106–398, §1 [[div. A], title VIII, §808(c)], amended heading and text of subsec. (c) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows:

"(1) The requirements set forth in subsections (a)(3) and (b) shall not apply to any employee who, on October 1, 1991, has at least 10 years of experience in acquisition positions, in comparable positions in other government agencies or the private sector, or in similar positions in which an individual obtains experience directly relevant to the field of contracting.

"(2) The requirements of subsections (a) and (b) shall not apply to any employee for purposes of qualifying to serve in the position in which the employee is serving on October 1, 1993, or any other position in the same or lower grade and involving the same or lower level of responsibilities as the position in which the employee is serving on such date."

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 106–398, §1 [[div. A], title VIII, §808(a)], in first sentence, substituted "employee or member of" for "employee of" and "employee or member possesses" for "employee possesses".

1996—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 104–201, in introductory provisions, struck out ", beginning on October 1, 1993," after "require that" and substituted "simplified acquisition threshold" for "small purchase threshold".

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 104–201, §1074(a)(9)(B)(ii), struck out ", beginning on October 1, 1993," after "require that".

1993—Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 103–35 inserted "or lower" before "grade" and before "level".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2021 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 116–283 effective Jan. 1, 2022, with additional provisions for delayed implementation and applicability of existing law, see section 1801(d) of Pub. L. 116–283, set out as a note preceding section 3001 of this title.

Effective Date of 2004 Amendment

Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title X, §1084(h), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 2064, provided that the amendment made by section 1084(h) [amending this section, section 1732 of this title, and provisions set out as a note under section 5949 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees] is effective as of Dec. 28, 2001, and as if included in Pub. L. 107–107 as enacted.

Effective Date of 2000 Amendment

Pub. L. 106–398, §1 [[div. A], title VIII, §808(e)], Oct. 30, 2000, 114 Stat. 1654, 1654A-208, provided that: "This section [amending this section], and the amendments made by this section, shall take effect on October 1, 2000, and shall apply to appointments and assignments to contracting positions made on or after that date."

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of authorities, functions, personnel, and assets of the Coast Guard, including the authorities and functions of the Secretary of Transportation relating thereto, to the Department of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 468(b), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6.

Fulfillment Standards for Mandatory Training

For provisions relating to development of fulfillment standards for purposes of the training requirements of this section, see section 812(c) of Pub. L. 102–484, set out as a note under section 1723 of this title.

Credit for Experience in Certain Positions

Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1209(i), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1667, as amended by Pub. L. 102–25, title VII, §704(b)(3)(D), Apr. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 119, provided that: "For purposes of meeting any requirement under chapter 87 of title 10, United States Code (as added by section 1202), for a period of experience (such as requirements for experience in acquisition positions or in critical acquisition positions) and for purposes of coverage under the exceptions established by section 1724(c)(1) and section 1732(c)(1) of such title, any period of time spent serving in a position later designated as an acquisition position or a critical acquisition position under such chapter may be counted as experience in such a position for such purposes."

§1725. Senior Military Acquisition Advisors

(a) Position.—

(1) In general.—The Secretary of Defense may establish in the acquisition workforce a position to be known as "Senior Military Acquisition Advisor".

(2) Appointment.—A Senior Military Acquisition Advisor shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.

(3) Scope of position.—An officer who is appointed as a Senior Military Acquisition Advisor—

(A) shall serve as an advisor to, and provide senior level acquisition expertise to, the service acquisition executive of that officer's military department in accordance with this section; and

(B) shall be assigned as an adjunct professor at the Defense Acquisition University.

(b) Continuation on Active Duty.—An officer who is appointed as a Senior Military Acquisition Advisor may continue on active duty while serving in such position without regard to any mandatory retirement date that would otherwise be applicable to that officer by reason of years of service or age. An officer who is continued on active duty pursuant to this section is not eligible for consideration for selection for promotion.

(c) Retired Grade.—Upon retirement, an officer who is a Senior Military Acquisition Advisor may, in the discretion of the President, be retired in the grade of brigadier general or rear admiral (lower half) if—

(1) the officer has served as a Senior Military Acquisition Advisor for a period of not less than three years; and

(2) the officer's service as a Senior Military Acquisition Advisor has been distinguished.

(d) Selection and Tenure.—

(1) In general.—Selection of an officer for recommendation for appointment as a Senior Military Acquisition Advisor shall be made competitively, and shall be based upon demonstrated experience and expertise in acquisition.

(2) Officers eligible.—Officers shall be selected for recommendation for appointment as Senior Military Acquisition Advisors from among officers in the acquisition workforce serving in critical acquisition positions who are serving in the grade of colonel or, in the case of the Navy, captain, and who have at least 12 years of acquisition experience. An officer selected for recommendation for appointment as a Senior Military Acquisition Advisor shall have at least 30 years of active commissioned service at the time of appointment.

(3) Term.—The appointment of an officer as a Senior Military Acquisition Advisor shall be for a term of not longer than five years.

(e) Limitation.—

(1) Limitation on number and distribution.—There may not be more than 15 Senior Military Acquisition Advisors at any time, of whom—

(A) not more than five may be officers of the Army;

(B) not more than five may be officers of the Navy and Marine Corps; and

(C) not more than five may be officers of the Air Force and Space Force.

(2) Number in each military department.—Subject to paragraph (1), the number of Senior Military Acquisition Advisors for each military department shall be as required and identified by the service acquisition executive of such military department and approved by the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment.

(f) Advice to Service Acquisition Executive.—An officer who is a Senior Military Acquisition Advisor shall have as the officer's primary duty providing strategic, technical, and programmatic advice to the service acquisition executive of the officer's military department on matters pertaining to the Defense Acquisition System, including matters pertaining to procurement, research and development, advanced technology, test and evaluation, production, program management, systems engineering, and lifecycle logistics.

(Added Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title VIII, §866(a)(1), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2305; amended Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(j)(9), title IX, §902(19), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1520, 1545; Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title IX, §924(b)(28), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3825.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1725, added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1643, which related to Office of Personnel Management approval, was repealed by Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §832(a), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1550; amended Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title X, §1084(f)(1), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 2064.

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (e)(1)(C). Pub. L. 116–283 inserted "and Space Force" before period at end.

2019—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(j)(9)(A), substituted "acquisition workforce" for "Defense Acquisition Corps".

Subsec. (d)(2). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(j)(9)(B), substituted "in the acquisition workforce serving in critical acquisition positions" for "of the Defense Acquisition Corps".

Subsec. (e)(2). Pub. L. 116–92, §902(19), substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics".

SUBCHAPTER III—CRITICAL ACQUISITION POSITIONS

        

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2019—Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(j)(6)(B), (7)(A), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1519, substituted "CRITICAL ACQUISITION POSITIONS" for "ACQUISITION CORPS" in heading for subchapter III, added item 1731, and struck out former items 1731 "Acquisition Corps: in general", 1732 "Selection criteria and procedures", and 1733 "Critical acquisition positions"

2001—Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(e)(6)(B), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1227, struck out item 1736 "Applicability".

§1731. Critical acquisition positions

(a) Designation of Critical Acquisition Positions.—(1) The Secretary of Defense shall designate the acquisition positions in the Department of Defense that are critical acquisition positions. Such positions shall include the following:

(A) Any acquisition position which—

(i) in the case of employees, is required to be filled by an employee in a senior position in the National Security Personnel System, as determined in accordance with guidelines prescribed by the Secretary, or in the Senior Executive Service; or

(ii) in the case of members of the armed forces, is required to be filled by a commissioned officer of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Space Force who is serving in the grade of lieutenant colonel, or, in the case of the Navy, commander, or a higher grade.

(B) Other selected acquisition positions not covered by subparagraph (A), including the following:

(i) Program executive officer.

(ii) Program manager of a major defense acquisition program (as defined in section 4201 of this title) or of a significant nonmajor defense acquisition program (as defined in section 1737(a)(3) of this title).

(iii) Deputy program manager of a major defense acquisition program.

(C) Any other acquisition position of significant responsibility in which the primary duties are supervisory or management duties.

(2) The Secretary shall periodically publish a list of the positions designated under this subsection.

(b) Promotion Rate for Officers in the Acquisition Workforce.—The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that the qualifications of commissioned officers in the acquisition workforce are such that those officers are expected, as a group, to be promoted at a rate not less than the rate for all line (or the equivalent) officers of the same armed force (both in the zone and below the zone) in the same grade.

(c) Mobility Statements.—(1) The Secretary of Defense is authorized to require civilians in critical acquisition positions to sign mobility statements.

(2) The Secretary of Defense shall identify which categories of civilians in critical acquisition positions, as a condition of employment, shall be required to sign mobility statements. The Secretary shall make available published information on such identification of categories.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1646, §1733; amended Pub. L. 102–484, div. A, title X, §1052(22), Oct. 23, 1992, 106 Stat. 2500; Pub. L. 103–89, §3(b)(3)(C), Sept. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 983; Pub. L. 104–201, div. A, title X, §1074(a)(9)(C), Sept. 23, 1996, 110 Stat. 2659; Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §833(2), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1550; Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title VIII, §812(a)(2), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 2013; renumbered §1731 and amended Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(j)(2)–(4), (6)(A), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1519; Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title IX, §924(b)(3)(AA), title XVIII, §1846(i)(4), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3821, 4252.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

The text of former section 1731(b) of this title, which was transferred to section 1733(b) of this title and then to subsec. (b) of this section by Pub. L. 116–92, §861(j)(3), (6)(A), was based on Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1644; Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §833(1)(B), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1550.

The text of section 1732(e) of this title, which was transferred to section 1733(c) of this title and then to subsec. (c) of this section by Pub. L. 116–92, §861(j)(4), (6)(A), was based on Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1644; Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §833(2), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1550.

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1731, added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1644; amended Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §§832(b)(1), 833(1), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1550; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(j)(3), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1519, related to establishment of the Acquisition Corps, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(j)(5), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1519.

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (a)(1)(A)(ii). Pub. L. 116–283, §924(b)(3)(AA), substituted "Marine Corps, or Space Force" for "or Marine Corps".

Subsec. (a)(1)(B)(ii). Pub. L. 116–283, §1846(i)(4), which directed amendment of subsec. (b)(1)(B)(ii) of this section by substituting "section 4201" for "section 2430", was executed to subsec. (a)(1)(B)(ii) of this section, to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

2019—Pub. L. 116–92, §861(j)(6)(A), renumbered section 1733 of this title as this section.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(j)(2), in section 1733 of this title prior to renumbering as this section, redesignated subsec. (b) as (a) and struck out former subsec. (a). Prior to amendment, text of subsec. (a) of section 1733 read as follows: "A critical acquisition position may be filled only by a member of the Acquisition Corps."

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(j)(3), prior to repeal of former section 1731, transferred subsec. (b) of that section to section 1733 of this title and substituted "the Acquisition Workforce" for "Acquisition Corps" in heading and "in the acquisition workforce" for "selected for the Acquisition Corps" in text. See Codification note above. Section 1733 was subsequently renumbered as this section.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(j)(4), prior to repeal of section 1732 of this title, transferred subsec. (e) of that section to section 1733 of this title, redesignated it as (c), and substituted "in critical acquisition positions" for "in the Acquisition Corps" in pars. (1) and (2) and "employment" for "serving in the Corps" in par. (2). See Codification note above. Section 1733 was subsequently renumbered as this section.

2004—Subsec. (b)(1)(A)(i). Pub. L. 108–375 substituted "in a senior position in the National Security Personnel System, as determined in accordance with guidelines prescribed by the Secretary," for "in a position within grade GS–14 or above of the General Schedule,".

2003—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 108–136 substituted "the Acquisition Corps" for "an Acquisition Corps".

1996—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 104–201 substituted "A critical" for "On and after October 1, 1993, a critical".

1993—Subsec. (b)(1)(A)(i). Pub. L. 103–89 substituted "Schedule" for "Schedule (including an employee covered by chapter 54 of title 5)".

1992—Subsec. (b)(1)(B)(ii). Pub. L. 102–484 substituted "1737(a)(3)" for "1736(a)(3)".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2021 Amendment

Amendment by section 1846(i)(4) of Pub. L. 116–283 effective Jan. 1, 2022, with additional provisions for delayed implementation and applicability of existing law, see section 1801(d) of Pub. L. 116–283, set out as a note preceding section 3001 of this title.

Effective Date of 1993 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 103–89 effective Nov. 1, 1993, see section 3(c) of Pub. L. 103–89, set out as a note under section 3372 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

Effective Date for Requirement for Corps Members To Fill Critical Acquisition Positions

Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1209(f), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1666, as amended by Pub. L. 102–25, title VII, §704(b)(3)(C), Apr. 6, 1991, 105 Stat. 119; Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title IX, §904(f), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1729, provided that the Secretaries of the military departments were to make every effort to fill critical acquisition positions by Acquisition Corps members as soon as possible after Nov. 5, 1990, and that for each of the first three years after Nov. 5, 1990, the report of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology to the Secretary of Defense under former section 1762 of this title was to include the number of critical acquisition positions filled by Acquisition Corps members.

Termination of Defense Acquisition Corps

Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(j)(1), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1519, provided that: "The Acquisition Corps for the Department of Defense referred to in [former] section 1731(a) of title 10, United States Code, is terminated."

Tenure and Accountability of Program Managers for Program Definition Periods

Pub. L. 114–92, div. A, title VIII, §826, Nov. 25, 2015, 129 Stat. 908, as amended by Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title VIII, §862(a), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2302; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title IX, §902(64), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1550, provided that:

"(a) Revised Guidance Required.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 25, 2015], the Secretary of Defense shall revise Department of Defense guidance for major defense acquisition programs to address the tenure and accountability of program managers for the program definition period of major defense acquisition programs.

"(b) Program Definition Period.—For the purposes of this section, the term 'program definition period', with respect to a major defense acquisition program, means the period beginning with initiation of the program and ending with Milestone B approval (or Key Decision Point B approval in the case of a space program).

"(c) Responsibilities.—The revised guidance required by subsection (a) shall provide that the program manager for the program definition period of a major defense acquisition program is responsible for—

"(1) bringing technologies to maturity and identifying the manufacturing processes that will be needed to carry out the program;

"(2) ensuring continuing focus during program development on meeting stated mission requirements and other requirements of the Department of Defense;

"(3) recommending trade-offs between program cost, schedule, and performance for the life-cycle of the program;

"(4) developing a business case for the program; and

"(5) ensuring that appropriate information is available to the milestone decision authority to make a decision on Milestone B approval (or Key Decision Point B approval in the case of a space program), including information necessary to make the certification required by section 2366a of title 10, United States Code [now 10 U.S.C. 4251].

"(d) Qualifications, Resources, and Tenure.—The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that each program manager for the program definition period of a major defense acquisition program—

"(1) has the appropriate management, engineering, technical, and financial expertise needed to meet the responsibilities assigned pursuant to subsection (c);

"(2) is provided the resources and support (including systems engineering expertise, cost-estimating expertise, and software development expertise) needed to meet such responsibilities; and

"(3) is assigned to the program manager position for such program until such time as such program receives Milestone B approval (or Key Decision Point B approval in the case of a space program), unless removed for cause or due to exceptional circumstances.

"(e) Waiver Authority.—The service acquisition executive, in the case of a major defense acquisition program of a military department, or the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, in the case of a Defense-wide or Defense Agency major defense acquisition program, may waive the requirement in paragraph (3) of subsection (d) upon a determination that the program definition period will take so long that it would not be appropriate for a single individual to serve as program manager for the entire period covered by such paragraph."

Tenure and Accountability of Program Managers for Program Execution Periods

Pub. L. 114–92, div. A, title VIII, §827, Nov. 25, 2015, 129 Stat. 909, as amended by Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title VIII, §862(b), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2302; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title IX, §902(65), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1550, provided that:

"(a) Revised Guidance Required.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 25, 2015], the Secretary of Defense shall revise Department of Defense guidance for major defense acquisition programs to address the tenure and accountability of program managers for the program execution period of major defense acquisition programs.

"(b) Program Execution Period.—For purposes of this section, the term 'program execution period', with respect to a major defense acquisition program, means the period beginning with Milestone B approval (or Key Decision Point B approval in the case of a space program) and ending with declaration of initial operational capability.

"(c) Responsibilities.—The revised guidance required by subsection (a) shall—

"(1) require the program manager for the program execution period of a major defense acquisition program to enter into a performance agreement with the manager's immediate supervisor for such program within six months of assignment, that—

"(A) establishes expected parameters for the cost, schedule, and performance of the program consistent with the business case for the program;

"(B) provides the commitment of the supervisor to provide the level of funding and resources required to meet such parameters; and

"(C) provides the assurance of the program manager that such parameters are achievable and that the program manager will be accountable for meeting such parameters; and

"(2) provide the program manager with the authority to—

"(A) consult on the addition of new program requirements that would be inconsistent with the parameters established in the performance agreement entered into pursuant to paragraph (1);

"(B) recommend trade-offs between cost, schedule, and performance, provided that such trade-offs are consistent with the parameters established in the performance agreement entered into pursuant to paragraph (1); and

"(C) develop such interim goals and milestones as may be required to achieve the parameters established in the performance agreement entered into pursuant to paragraph (1).

"(d) Qualifications, Resources, and Tenure.—The Secretary shall ensure that each program manager for the program execution period of a defense acquisition program—

"(1) has the appropriate management, engineering, technical, and financial expertise needed to meet the responsibilities assigned pursuant to subsection (c);

"(2) is provided the resources and support (including systems engineering expertise, cost estimating expertise, and software development expertise) needed to meet such responsibilities; and

"(3) is assigned to the program manager position for such program during the program execution period, unless removed for cause or due to exceptional circumstances.

"(e) Waiver Authority.—The service acquisition executive, in the case of a major defense acquisition program of a military department, or the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, in the case of a Defense-wide or Defense Agency major defense acquisition program, may waive the requirement in paragraph (3) of subsection (d) upon a determination that the program execution period will take so long that it would not be appropriate for a single individual to serve as program manager for the entire program execution period."

[§1732. Repealed. Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(j)(5), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1519]

Section, added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1644; amended Pub. L. 102–484, div. A, title VIII, §812(e)(1), Oct. 23, 1992, 106 Stat. 2451; Pub. L. 103–89, §3(b)(3)(B), Sept. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 982; Pub. L. 105–261, div. A, title VIII, §811, Oct. 17, 1998, 112 Stat. 2086; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title VIII, §824(b), title X, §1048(e)(4), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1185, 1227; Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §§831(b)(2), (3), 832(b)(2), 833(2), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1549, 1550; Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title VIII, §812(a)(1), title X, §1084(d)(14), (h)(2), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 2013, 2062, 2064; Pub. L. 109–163, div. A, title X, §1056(c)(3), Jan. 6, 2006, 119 Stat. 3439; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(b)(2), (j)(4), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1516, 1519, related to selection criteria and procedures for membership in the Acquisition Corps.

[§1733. Renumbered §1731]

§1734. Career development

(a) Three-Year Assignment Period.—(1) Except as provided under subsection (b) and paragraph (3), the Secretary of each military department, acting through the service acquisition executive for that department, shall provide that any person who is assigned to a critical acquisition position shall be assigned to the position for not fewer than three years. Except as provided in subsection (d), the Secretary concerned may not reassign a person from such an assignment before the end of the three-year period.

(2) A person may not be assigned to a critical acquisition position unless the person executes a written agreement to remain on active duty (in the case of a member of the armed forces) or to remain in Federal service (in the case of an employee) in that position for at least three years. The service obligation contained in such a written agreement shall remain in effect unless and until waived by the Secretary concerned under subsection (b).

(3) The assignment period requirement of the first sentence of paragraph (1) is waived for any individual serving as a deputy program manager if the individual is assigned to a critical acquisition position upon completion of the individual's assignment as a deputy program manager.

(b) Assignment Period for Program Managers.—(1) The Secretary of Defense shall prescribe in regulations—

(A) a requirement that a program manager and a deputy program manager (except as provided in paragraph (3)) of a major defense acquisition program be assigned to the position at least until completion of the major milestone that occurs closest in time to the date on which the person has served in the position for four years; and

(B) a requirement that, to the maximum extent practicable, a program manager who is the replacement for a reassigned program manager arrive at the assignment location before the reassigned program manager leaves.

Except as provided in subsection (d), the Secretary concerned may not reassign a program manager or deputy program manager from such an assignment until after such major milestone has occurred.

(2) A person may not be assigned to a critical acquisition position as a program manager or deputy program manager of a major defense acquisition program unless the person executes a written agreement to remain on active duty (in the case of a member of the armed forces) or to remain in Federal service (in the case of an employee) in that position at least until completion of the first major milestone that occurs closest in time to the date on which the person has served in the position for four years. The service obligation contained in such a written agreement shall remain in effect unless and until waived by the Secretary concerned under subsection (d).

(3) The assignment period requirement under subparagraph (A) of paragraph (1) is waived for any individual serving as a deputy program manager if the individual is assigned to a critical acquisition position upon completion of the individual's assignment as a deputy program manager.

(c) Major Milestone Regulations.—(1) The Secretary of Defense shall issue regulations defining what constitutes major milestones for purposes of this section. The service acquisition executive of each military department shall establish major milestones at the beginning of a major defense acquisition program consistent with such regulations and shall use such milestones to determine the assignment period for program managers and deputy program managers under subsection (b).

(2) The regulations shall require that major milestones be clearly definable and measurable events that mark the completion of a significant phase in a major defense acquisition program and that such milestones be the same as the milestones contained in the baseline description established for the program pursuant to section 4214(a) of this title. The Secretary shall require that the major milestones as defined in the regulations be included in the Selected Acquisition Report required for such program under section 4351 of this title.

(d) Waiver of Assignment Period.—(1) With respect to a person assigned to a critical acquisition position, the Secretary concerned may waive the prohibition on reassignment of that person (in subsection (a)(1) or (b)(1)) and the service obligation in an agreement executed by that person (under subsection (a)(2) or (b)(2)), but only in exceptional circumstances in which a waiver is necessary for reasons permitted in regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense.

(2) With respect to each waiver granted under this subsection, the service acquisition executive (or his delegate) shall set forth in a written document the rationale for the decision to grant the waiver.

(e) Rotation Policy.—(1) The Secretary of Defense shall establish a policy encouraging the rotation of members of the acquisition workforce serving in critical acquisition positions to new assignments after completion of five years of service in such positions, or, in the case of a program manager, after completion of a major program milestone, whichever is longer. Such rotation policy shall be designed to ensure opportunities for career broadening assignments and an infusion of new ideas into critical acquisition positions.

(2) The Secretary of Defense shall establish a procedure under which the assignment of each person assigned to a critical acquisition position shall be reviewed on a case-by-case basis for the purpose of determining whether the Government and such person would be better served by a reassignment to a different position. Such a review shall be carried out with respect to each such person not later than five years after that person is assigned to a critical position.

(f) Centralized Job Referral System.—The Secretary of Defense shall prescribe regulations providing for the use of centralized lists to ensure that persons are selected for critical positions without regard to geographic location of applicants for such positions.

(g) Exchange Program.—The Secretary of Defense shall establish, for purposes of broadening the experience of members of the acquisition workforce, a test program in which members of the acquisition workforce serving in a military department or Defense Agency are assigned or detailed to an acquisition position in another department or agency. Under the test program, the Secretary of Defense shall ensure that, to the maximum extent practicable, at least 5 percent of the members of the acquisition workforce in critical acquisition positions shall serve in such exchange assignments each year. The test program shall operate for not less than a period of three years.

(h) Responsibility for Assignments.—The Secretary of each military department, acting through the service acquisition executive for that department, is responsible for making assignments of civilian and military personnel of that military department who are members of the acquisition workforce to critical acquisition positions.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1646; amended Pub. L. 102–484, div. A, title VIII, §812(a), (b), Oct. 23, 1992, 106 Stat. 2450; Pub. L. 104–201, div. A, title X, §1074(a)(9)(D), Sept. 23, 1996, 110 Stat. 2659; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(e)(5), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1227; Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §§831(b)(4), 832(b)(3), 833(2), (3), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1549, 1550; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(j)(10), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1520; Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title XVIII, §1849(f), formerly §1849(m), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 4264, renumbered §1849(f) and amended Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title XVII, §1701(o)(5)(B), (6)(D), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 2147; Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title XVII, §1702(a)(3), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 2155.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 117–81, §1702(a)(3), substituted "section 4214(a)" for "section 2435(a)".

Pub. L. 116–283, §1849(f), formerly §1849(m), as renumbered and amended by Pub. L. 117–81, §1701(o)(5)(B), (6)(D), substituted "section 4351" for "section 2432".

2019—Subsec. (e)(1). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(j)(10)(A), substituted "of the acquisition workforce" for "of the Acquisition Corps".

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(j)(10)(B), substituted "experience of members of the acquisition workforce" for "experience of members of the Acquisition Corps", "in which members of the acquisition workforce" for "in which members of the Corps", and "of the acquisition workforce in critical acquisition positions" for "of the Acquisition Corps".

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(j)(10)(A), substituted "of the acquisition workforce" for "of the Acquisition Corps".

2003—Subsec. (d)(2). Pub. L. 108–136, §831(b)(4)(A)(ii), redesignated par. (3) as (2) and struck out at end "The document shall be submitted to the Director of Acquisition Education, Training, and Career Development."

Pub. L. 108–136, §831(b)(4)(A)(i), struck out par. (2) which read as follows: "The authority to grant such waivers may be delegated by the service acquisition executive of a military department only to the Director of Acquisition Career Management for the military department."

Subsec. (d)(3). Pub. L. 108–136, §831(b)(4)(A)(ii), redesignated par. (3) as (2).

Subsec. (e)(1). Pub. L. 108–136, §833(2), substituted "the Acquisition Corps" for "an Acquisition Corps"

Subsec. (e)(2). Pub. L. 108–136, §831(b)(4)(B), struck out ", by the acquisition career program board of the department concerned," after "case-by-case basis".

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 108–136, §833(3)(A), substituted "the Acquisition Corps, a test program in which members of the Corps" for "each Acquisition Corps, a test program in which members of a Corps".

Pub. L. 108–136, §832(b)(3), substituted "The Secretary" for "(1) The Secretary" and struck out par. (2) which read as follows: "The Secretary of Defense shall submit the portion of the test program applicable to civilian employees to the Director of the Office of Personnel Management for approval. If the Director does not disapprove that portion of the test program within 30 days after the date on which the Director receives it, that portion of the test program is deemed to be approved by the Director."

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 108–136, §833(3)(B), substituted "making assignments of civilian and military personnel of that military department who are members of the Acquisition Corps" for "making assignments of civilian and military members of the Acquisition Corps of that military department".

2001—Subsec. (b)(1)(B). Pub. L. 107–107, §1048(e)(5)(A), struck out "on and after October 1, 1991," before "to the maximum extent practicable".

Subsec. (e)(2). Pub. L. 107–107, §1048(e)(5)(B), struck out at end "Reviews under this subsection shall be carried out after October 1, 1995, but may be carried out before that date."

1996—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 104–201, §1074(a)(9)(D)(i), struck out ", on and after October 1, 1993," after "provide that".

Subsec. (b)(1)(A). Pub. L. 104–201, §1074(a)(9)(D)(ii), struck out ", on and after October 1, 1991," after "requirement that".

1992—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 102–484, §812(b)(1)(A), inserted before first comma "and paragraph (3)".

Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 102–484, §812(b)(1)(B), added par. (3).

Subsec. (b)(1)(A). Pub. L. 102–484, §812(b)(2)(A), inserted "(except as provided in paragraph (3))" after "deputy program manager".

Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 102–484, §812(b)(2)(B), added par. (3).

Subsec. (e)(2). Pub. L. 102–484, §812(a), inserted at end "Reviews under this subsection shall be carried out after October 1, 1995, but may be carried out before that date."

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2021 Amendment

Amendment by section 1701(o)(5)(B), (6)(D) of Pub. L. 117–81 applicable as if included in the enactment of title XVIII of Pub. L. 116–283 as enacted, see section 1701(a)(2) of Pub. L. 117–81, set out in a note preceding section 3001 of this title and note below.

Amendment by Pub. L. 116–283 effective Jan. 1, 2022, with additional provisions for delayed implementation and applicability of existing law, see section 1801(d) of Pub. L. 116–283, set out as a note preceding section 3001 of this title.

Job Referral System Deadline

Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1209(e), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1666, provided that: "Not later than October 1, 1991, the Secretary of Defense shall prescribe regulations required under section 1734(f) of title 10, United States Code (as added by section 1202)."

§1735. Education, training, and experience requirements for critical acquisition positions

(a) Qualification Requirements.—In establishing the education, training, and experience requirements under section 1723 of this title for critical acquisition positions, the Secretary of Defense shall, at a minimum, include the requirements set forth in subsections (b) through (e).

(b) Program Managers and Deputy Program Managers.—Before being assigned to a position as a program manager or deputy program manager of a major defense acquisition program or a significant nonmajor defense acquisition program, a person—

(1) must have completed the program management course at the Defense Systems Management College or a management program at an accredited educational institution determined to be comparable by the Secretary of Defense;

(2) must have executed a written agreement as required in section 1734(b)(2); and

(3) in the case of—

(A) a program manager of a major defense acquisition program, must have at least eight years of experience in acquisition, at least two years of which were performed in a systems program office or similar organization;

(B) a program manager of a significant nonmajor defense acquisition program, must have at least six years of experience in acquisition;

(C) a deputy program manager of a major defense acquisition program, must have at least six years of experience in acquisition, at least two years of which were performed in a systems program office or similar organization; and

(D) a deputy program manager of a significant nonmajor defense acquisition program, must have at least four years of experience in acquisition.

(c) Program Executive Officers.—Before being assigned to a position as a program executive officer, a person—

(1) must have completed the program management course at the Defense Systems Management College or a management program at an accredited educational institution in the private sector determined to be comparable by the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment;

(2) must have at least 10 years experience in an acquisition position, at least four years of which were performed while assigned to a critical acquisition position; and

(3) must have held a position as a program manager or a deputy program manager.

(d) General and Flag Officers and Civilians in Equivalent Positions.—Before a general or flag officer, or a civilian serving in a position equivalent in grade to the grade of such an officer, may be assigned to a critical acquisition position, the person must have at least 10 years experience in an acquisition position, at least four years of which were performed while assigned to a critical acquisition position.

(e) Senior Contracting Officials.—Before a person may be assigned to a critical acquisition position as a senior contracting official, the person must have at least four years experience in contracting.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1648; amended Pub. L. 102–484, div. A, title VIII, §812(d), Oct. 23, 1992, 106 Stat. 2451; Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title IX, §904(d)(1), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1728; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(b)(2), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1225; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title IX, §902(20), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1545.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2019—Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 116–92 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics".

2001—Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 107–107 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology".

1993—Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 103–160 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition".

1992—Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 102–484 struck out "or deputy program manager" after "program manager" in subpars. (A) and (B), struck out "and" at end of subpar. (A), substituted semicolon for period at end of subpar. (B), and added subpars. (C) and (D).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Fulfillment Standards for Mandatory Training

For provisions relating to development of fulfillment standards for purposes of the training requirements of this section, see section 812(c) of Pub. L. 102–484, set out as a note under section 1723 of this title.

[§1736. Repealed. Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(e)(6)(A), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1227]

Section, added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1649, related to applicability of the qualification requirements.

§1737. Definitions and general provisions

(a) Definitions.—In this subchapter:

(1) The term "program manager" means, with respect to a defense acquisition program, the member of the acquisition workforce responsible for managing the program, regardless of the title given the member.

(2) The term "deputy program manager" means the person who has authority to act on behalf of the program manager in the absence of the program manager.

(3) The term "significant nonmajor defense acquisition program" means a Department of Defense acquisition program that is not a major defense acquisition program (as defined in section 4201 of this title) and that is estimated by the Secretary of Defense to require an eventual total expenditure for research, development, test, and evaluation of more than the dollar threshold set forth in section 3041(b)(1) of this title for such purposes for a major system or an eventual total expenditure for procurement of more than the dollar threshold set forth in section 3041(b)(1) of this title for such purpose for a major system.

(4) The term "program executive officer" has the meaning given such term in regulations prescribed by the Secretary of Defense.

(5) The term "senior contracting official" means a director of contracting, or a principal deputy to a director of contracting, serving in the office of the Secretary of a military department, the headquarters of a military department, the head of a Defense Agency, a subordinate command headquarters, or in a major systems or logistics contracting activity in the Department of Defense.

(b) Limitation.—Any civilian or military member of the acquisition workforce who does not meet the education, training, and experience requirements for a critical acquisition position established under this subchapter may not carry out the duties or exercise the authorities of that position, except for a period not to exceed six months, unless a waiver of the requirements is granted under subsection (c).

(c) Waiver.—The Secretary of each military department (acting through the service acquisition executive for that department) or the Secretary of Defense (acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment) for Defense Agencies and other components of the Department of Defense may waive, on a case-by-case basis, the requirements established under this subchapter with respect to the assignment of an individual to a particular critical acquisition position. Such a waiver may be granted only if unusual circumstances justify the waiver or if the Secretary concerned (or official to whom the waiver authority is delegated) determines that the individual's qualifications obviate the need for meeting the education, training, and experience requirements established under this subchapter.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1650; amended Pub. L. 102–190, div. A, title X, §1061(a)(8), (c), Dec. 5, 1991, 105 Stat. 1472, 1475; Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title IX, §904(d)(1), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1728; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(b)(2), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1225; Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §§831(b)(5), 832(b)(4), 833(2), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1549, 1550; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(j)(11), title IX, §902(21), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1520, 1545; Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title XVIII, §§1806(e)(4), 1846(i)(4), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 4156, 4252.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 116–283 substituted "section 4201" for "section 2430" and substituted "section 3041(b)(1)" for "section 2302(5)(A)" in two places.

2019—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(j)(11)(A), substituted "of the acquisition workforce" for "of the Acquisition Corps".

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(j)(11)(B), substituted "of the acquisition workforce" for "of the Corps".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 116–92, §902(21), substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics".

2003—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 108–136, §833(2), substituted "the Acquisition Corps" for "an Acquisition Corps".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 108–136, §831(b)(5), substituted "The Secretary" for "(1) The Secretary" and struck out par. (2) which read as follows: "The authority to grant such waivers may be delegated—

"(A) in the case of the service acquisition executives of the military departments, only to the Director of Acquisition Career Management for the military department concerned; and

"(B) in the case of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, only to the Director of Acquisition Education, Training, and Career Development."

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 108–136, §832(b)(4), struck out heading and text of subsec. (d). Text read as follows: "The Secretary of Defense shall submit any requirement with respect to civilian employees established under this subchapter to the Director of the Office of Personnel Management for approval. If the Director does not disapprove the requirement within 30 days after the date on which the Director receives the requirement, the requirement is deemed to be approved by the Director."

2001—Subsec. (c)(1), (2)(B). Pub. L. 107–107 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology".

1993—Subsec. (c)(1), (2)(B). Pub. L. 103–160 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition".

1991—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 102–190, §1061(c), substituted "the dollar threshold set forth in section 2302(5)(A) of this title for such purposes for a major system" for "$50,000,000 (based on fiscal year 1980 constant dollars)" and "the dollar threshold set forth in section 2302(5)(A) of this title for such purpose for a major system" for "$250,000,000 (based on fiscal year 1980 constant dollars)".

Subsec. (c)(2)(B). Pub. L. 102–190, §1061(a)(8), struck out comma after "Director of Acquisition".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2021 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 116–283 effective Jan. 1, 2022, with additional provisions for delayed implementation and applicability of existing law, see section 1801(d) of Pub. L. 116–283, set out as a note preceding section 3001 of this title.

SUBCHAPTER IV—EDUCATION AND TRAINING

        

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2022—Pub. L. 117–263, div. A, title VIII, §801(b), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 2693, which directed amendment of analysis for chapter 87 of this title by adding item 1743 after item 1742, was executed to analysis for this subchapter to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

2021—Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title VIII, §801(b), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 1812, added item 1746a.

2011—Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title VIII, §§874(b)(2), 877(c)(2)(B), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4305, 4306, substituted "Defense Acquisition University" for "Defense acquisition university structure" in item 1746 and added item 1748.

2003—Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §836(3), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1552, substituted "Internship, cooperative education, and scholarship programs" for "Intern program" in item 1742 and struck out items 1743 "Cooperative education program" and 1744 "Scholarship program".

2002—Pub. L. 107–314, div. A, title X, §1062(a)(10)(B), Dec. 2, 2002, 116 Stat. 2650, transferred former item 2410h from chapter 141 to this subchapter and redesignated it as item 1747.

§1741. Policies and programs: establishment and implementation

(a) Policies and Procedures.—The Secretary of Defense shall establish policies and procedures for the establishment and implementation of the education and training programs authorized by this subchapter.

(b) Funding Levels.—The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment each year shall recommend to the Secretary of Defense the funding levels to be requested in the defense budget to implement the education and training programs under this subchapter. The Secretary of Defense shall set forth separately the funding levels requested for such programs in the Department of Defense budget justification documents submitted in support of the President's budget submitted to Congress under section 1105 of title 31.

(c) Programs.—The Secretary of each military department, acting through the service acquisition executive for that department, shall establish and implement the education and training programs authorized by this subchapter. In carrying out such requirement, the Secretary concerned shall ensure that such programs are established and implemented throughout the military department concerned and, to the maximum extent practicable, uniformly with the programs of the other military departments.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1651; amended Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title IX, §904(d)(1), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1728; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(b)(2), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1225; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title IX, §902(22), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1545.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2019—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 116–92 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics".

2001—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 107–107 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology".

1993—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 103–160 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Software Development and Software Acquisition Training and Management Programs

Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §862, Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1520, provided that:

"(a) Establishment of Software Development and Software Acquisition Training and Management Programs.—

"(1) In general.—The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and in consultation with the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, and the Chief Information Officer of the Department of Defense, shall establish software development and software acquisition training and management programs for all software acquisition professionals, software developers, and other appropriate individuals (as determined by the Secretary of Defense), to earn a certification in software development and software acquisition.

"(2) Program contents.—The programs established under paragraph (1) shall—

"(A) develop and expand the use of specialized training programs for chief information officers of the military departments and the Defense Agencies, service acquisition executives, program executive officers, and program managers to include training on and experience in—

"(i) continuous software development; and

"(ii) acquisition pathways available to acquire software;

"(B) ensure that appropriate program managers—

"(i) have demonstrated competency in current software processes;

"(ii) have the skills to lead a workforce that can quickly meet challenges, use software tools that prioritize continuous or frequent upgrades as such tools become available, take up opportunities provided by new innovations, and plan software activities in short iterations to learn from risks of software testing; and

"(iii) have the experience and training to delegate technical oversight and execution decisions; and

"(C) include continuing education courses, exchanges with private-sector organizations, and experiential training to help individuals maintain skills learned through the programs.

"(b) Reports.—

"(1) Reports required.—The Secretary shall submit to the congressional defense committees [Committees on Armed Services and Appropriations of the Senate and the House of Representatives]—

"(A) not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 20, 2019], an initial report; and

"(B) not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, a final report.

"(2) Contents.—Each report required under paragraph (1) shall include—

"(A) the status of implementing the software development and software acquisition training and management programs established under subsection (a)(1);

"(B) a description of the requirements for certification, including the requirements for competencies in current software processes;

"(C) a description of potential career paths in software development and software acquisition within the Department of Defense;

"(D) an independent assessment conducted by the Defense Innovation Board of the progress made on implementing the programs established under subsection (a)(1); and

"(E) any recommendations for changes to existing law to facilitate the implementation of the programs established under subsection (a)(1).

"(c) Definitions.—In this section:

"(1) Program executive officer; program manager.—The terms 'program executive officer' and 'program manager' have the meanings given those terms, respectively, in section 1737 of title 10, United States Code.

"(2) Service acquisition executive.—The terms 'military department', 'Defense Agency', and 'service acquisition executive' have the meanings given those terms, respectively, in section 101 of title 10, United States Code.

"(3) Major defense acquisition program.—The term 'major defense acquisition program' has the meaning given in section 2430 of title 10, United States Code [now 10 U.S.C. 4201].

"(4) Defense business system.—The term 'defense business system' has the meaning given in section 2222(i)(1) of title 10, United States Code."

Review of Guidance to Contractors on Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex

Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §885, Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1535, provided that:

"(a) Review.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 20, 2019], the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, serving as the senior procurement executive for the Department of Defense pursuant to section 133b(b)(4)(B) of title 10, United States Code [now 10 U.S.C. 133b(b)(5)(B)], shall conduct a review of the implementation of the requirement for Government contracting agencies under Executive Order 11246 (42 U.S.C. 2000e note) relating to expectations of contractors and subcontractors to ensure nondiscrimination on the basis of sex.

"(b) Elements.—The review required under subsection (a) shall, at a minimum, consider—

"(1) existing contracting processes and tools for oversight of contracts, including contractor responsibility determinations and documentation of performance; and

"(2) the extent to which best practices for contractors and subcontractors identified in the appendix to part 60–20 of title 41 of the Code of Federal Regulations, such as establishing and implementing procedures for handling and resolving complaints about harassment and intimidation based on sex, have been incorporated in Department policies and procedures.

"(c) Updated Training Guidance.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the completion of the review required under subsection (a), the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall update any relevant training guidance for the acquisition workforce to account for the conclusions of the review.

"(d) Briefing Required.—Not later than December 15, 2020, the Secretary of Defense shall brief the congressional defense committees [Committees on Armed Services and Appropriations of the Senate and the House of Representatives] on the review required under subsection (a), which shall include any updates to training guidance or contracting procedures resulting from the review."

Guidance Regarding Training and Development of the Acquisition Workforce

Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title VIII, §803(b), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2249, provided that:

"(1) In general.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 23, 2016], the Secretary of Defense shall issue guidance addressing the training and development of the Department of Defense workforce engaged in the procurement of services, including those personnel not designated as members of the acquisition workforce.

"(2) Identification of training and professional development opportunities and alternatives.—The guidance required under paragraph (1) shall identify training and professional development opportunities and alternatives, not limited to existing Department of Defense institutions, that focus on and provide relevant training and professional development in commercial business models and contracting.

"(3) Treatment of training and professional development.—Any training and professional development provided pursuant to this subsection outside Department of Defense institutions shall be deemed to be equivalent to similar training certified or provided by the Defense Acquisition University."

Requirements Management Certification Training Program

Pub. L. 109–364, div. A, title VIII, §801, Oct. 17, 2006, 120 Stat. 2312, as amended by Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title IX, §902(68), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1551, provided that:

"(a) Training Program.—

"(1) Requirement.—The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, in consultation with the Defense Acquisition University, shall develop a training program to certify military and civilian personnel of the Department of Defense with responsibility for generating requirements for major defense acquisition programs (as defined in section 2430(a) of title 10, United States Code [now 10 U.S.C. 4201]).

"(2) Competency and other requirements.—The Under Secretary shall establish competency requirements for the personnel undergoing the training program. The Under Secretary shall define the target population for such training program by identifying which military and civilian personnel should have responsibility for generating requirements. The Under Secretary also may establish other training programs for personnel not subject to chapter 87 of title 10, United States Code, who contribute significantly to other types of acquisitions by the Department of Defense.

"(b) Applicability.—Effective on and after September 30, 2008, a member of the Armed Forces or an employee of the Department of Defense with authority to generate requirements for a major defense acquisition program may not continue to participate in the requirements generation process unless the member or employee successfully completes the certification training program developed under this section.

"(c) Reports.—The Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives an interim report, not later than March 1, 2007, and a final report, not later than March 1, 2008, on the implementation of the training program required under this section."

§1742. Internship, cooperative education, and scholarship programs

(a) Programs.—The Secretary of Defense shall conduct the following education and training programs:

(1) An intern program for purposes of providing highly qualified and talented individuals an opportunity for accelerated promotions, career broadening assignments, and specified training to prepare them for entry into acquisition positions in the Department of Defense.

(2) A cooperative education credit program under which the Secretary arranges, through cooperative arrangements entered into with one or more accredited institutions of higher education, for such institutions to grant undergraduate credit for work performed by students who are employed by the Department of Defense in acquisition positions.

(3) A scholarship program for the purpose of qualifying personnel for acquisition positions in the Department of Defense.

(b) Scholarship Program Requirements.—Each recipient of a scholarship under a program conducted under subsection (a)(3) shall be required to sign a written agreement that sets forth the terms and conditions of the scholarship. The agreement shall be in a form prescribed by the Secretary and shall include terms and conditions, including terms and conditions addressing reimbursement in the event that a recipient fails to fulfill the requirements of the agreement, that are comparable to those set forth as a condition for providing advanced education assistance under section 2005. The obligation to reimburse the United States under an agreement under this subsection is, for all purposes, a debt owing the United States.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1651; amended Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §834(a), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1550; Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title VIII, §812(b), title X, §1084(f)(1), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 2013, 2064; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(j)(12), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1520.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2019—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 116–92 substituted "acquisition positions in the Department of Defense" for "the Acquisition Corps".

2004—Pub. L. 108–375, §1084(f)(1), amended directory language of Pub. L. 108–136, §834(a). See 2003 Amendment note below.

Pub. L. 108–375, §812(b), designated existing provisions as subsec. (a), inserted heading, and added subsec. (b).

2003—Pub. L. 108–136, §834(a), as amended by Pub. L. 108–375, §1084(f)(1), amended section catchline and text generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "The Secretary of Defense shall require that each military department conduct an intern program for purposes of providing highly qualified and talented individuals an opportunity for accelerated promotions, career broadening assignments, and specified training to prepare them for entry into the Acquisition Corps."

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2004 Amendment

Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title X, §1084(f), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 2064, provided that the amendment made by section 1084(f)(1) is effective as of Nov. 24, 2003, and as if included in Pub. L. 108–136 as enacted.

§1743. Awards to recognize members of the acquisition workforce

(a) Establishment.—The President of the Defense Acquisition University shall establish two programs to provide awards to recognize members of the acquisition workforce as follows:

(1) An award of not more than $5,000 to such members who use an iterative writing process to document a first-hand account of using independent judgment to overcome an obstacle the member faced while working within the defense acquisition system (as defined in section 3001 of this title).

(2) An award of not more than $5,000 to such members who make the best use of the flexibilities and authorities granted by the Federal Acquisition Regulation and Department of Defense Instruction 5000.02 (Operation of the Defense Acquisition System).

(b) Number of Awards.—

(1) In general.—The President of the Defense Acquisition University may make not more than five awards under subsection (a)(1) and one award under subsection (a)(2) each year.

(2) Limitation.—A member of the acquisition workforce may receive one award each year.

(c) Requirements for Writing Award.—

(1) Submission required.—A member of the acquisition workforce desiring an award under subsection (a)(1) shall submit to the President of the Defense Acquisition University the first-hand account described in such subsection. Such first-hand account shall demonstrate—

(A) an original and engaging idea documenting the use of independent judgment to overcome an obstacle the recipient faced while working within the defense acquisition system; and

(B) the use of an iterative writing process, including evidence of—

(i) critical thinking;

(ii) incorporation of feedback from diverse perspectives; and

(iii) editing to achieve plain writing (as defined in section 3 of the Plain Writing Act of 2010 (5 U.S.C. 301 note)).

(2) Website.—The President of the Defense Acquisition University shall establish and maintain a website to serve as a repository for submissions made under paragraph (1). Such website shall allow for public comments and discussion.

(d) Requirements for Flexibility Award.—A member of the acquisition workforce desiring an award under subsection (a)(2) shall submit to the President of the Defense Acquisition University documentation that such member uses approaches to program management that emphasize innovation and local adaptation, including the use of—

(1) simplified acquisition procedures;

(2) inherent flexibilities within the Federal Acquisition Regulation;

(3) commercial contracting approaches;

(4) public-private partnership agreements and practices;

(5) cost-sharing arrangements;

(6) innovative contractor incentive practices; or

(7) other innovative implementations of acquisition flexibilities.

(e) Funding.—The Secretary of Defense shall use funds from the Defense Acquisition Workforce Development Account to carry out this section.

(Added Pub. L. 117–263, div. A, title VIII, §801(a), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 2692.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 3 of the Plain Writing Act of 2010, referred to in subsec. (c)(1)(B)(iii), is section 3 of Pub. L. 111–274, which is set out in a note under section 301 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1743, added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1651, related to cooperative education program, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §834(b), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1551.

[§1744. Repealed. Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §834(b), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1551]

Section, added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1652; amended Pub. L. 102–484, div. A, title VIII, §812(f), Oct. 23, 1992, 106 Stat. 2451; Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §832(c), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1550, related to scholarship program.

§1745. Additional education and training programs available to acquisition personnel

(a) Tuition Reimbursement and Training.—(1) The Secretary of Defense shall provide for tuition reimbursement and training (including a full-time course of study leading to a degree) for acquisition personnel in the Department of Defense.

(2) For civilian personnel, the reimbursement and training shall be provided under section 4107(b) of title 5 for the purposes described in that section. For purposes of such section 4107(b), there is deemed to be, until September 30, 2010, a shortage of qualified personnel to serve in acquisition positions in the Department of Defense.

(3) In the case of members of the armed forces, the limitation in section 2007(a) of this title shall not apply to tuition reimbursement and training provided for under this subsection.

(b) Repayment of Student Loans.—The Secretary of Defense may repay all or part of a student loan under section 5379 of title 5 for an employee of the Department of Defense appointed to an acquisition position.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1653; amended Pub. L. 104–106, div. A, title XV, §1503(a)(15), Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 511; Pub. L. 106–65, div. A, title IX, §925(a), Oct. 5, 1999, 113 Stat. 726; Pub. L. 106–398, §1 [[div. A], title XI, §1123], Oct. 30, 2000, 114 Stat. 1654, 1654A-317.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2000—Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 106–398 substituted "September 30, 2010" for "September 30, 2001".

1999—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 106–65 amended heading and text of subsec. (a) generally. Text read as follows: "The Secretary of Defense shall provide for tuition reimbursement and training (including a full-time course of study leading to a degree) under section 4107(b) of title 5 for acquisition personnel in the Department of Defense for the purposes described in that section. For purposes of such section 4107(b), there is deemed to be, until September 30, 2001, a shortage of qualified personnel to serve in acquisition positions in the Department of Defense."

1996—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 104–106 substituted "section 4107(b)" for "section 4107(d)" in two places.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1999 Amendment

Pub. L. 106–65, div. A, title IX, §925(b), Oct. 5, 1999, 113 Stat. 726, provided that: "The amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] shall apply with respect to charges for tuition or expenses incurred after the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 5, 1999]."

§1746. Defense Acquisition University

(a) Defense Acquisition University Structure.—The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, shall establish and maintain a defense acquisition university structure to provide for—

(1) the professional educational development and training of the acquisition workforce; and

(2) research and analysis of defense acquisition policy issues from an academic perspective.

(b) Civilian Faculty Members.—(1) The Secretary of Defense may employ as many civilians as professors, instructors, and lecturers in the defense acquisition university structure as the Secretary considers necessary.

(2) The Secretary of Defense shall ensure the defense acquisition university structure includes relevant expert lecturers from extramural institutions (as defined in section 1746a(g) of this title), industry, or federally funded research and development centers to advance acquisition workforce competence regarding commercial business interests, acquisition process-related innovations, and other relevant leading practices of the private sector.

(3) The compensation of persons employed under this subsection shall be as prescribed by the Secretary.

(4) In this subsection, the term "defense acquisition university" includes the Defense Systems Management College.

(c) Curriculum Development.—The President of the Defense Acquisition University shall work with the relevant professional schools and degree-granting institutions of the Department of Defense and military departments, and with extramural institutions (as defined in section 1746a(g) of this title), to ensure that best practices are used in curriculum development to support acquisition workforce positions.

(d) Cooperative Research and Development Agreements.—(1) In engaging in research and development projects pursuant to subsection (a) of section 4001 of this title by a contract, cooperative agreement, or grant pursuant to subsection (b)(1) of such section, the Secretary may enter into such contract or cooperative agreement or award such grant through the Defense Acquisition University.

(2) The Defense Acquisition University shall be considered a Government-operated Federal laboratory for purposes of section 12 of the Stevenson-Wydler Technology Innovation Act of 1980 (15 U.S.C. 3710a).

(e) President Appointment.—(1) The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall appoint the President of the Defense Acquisition University.

(2) When determining who to appoint under paragraph (1), the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment shall, in consultation with the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering and the service acquisition executives, prioritize highly qualified candidates who demonstrate a combination of the following:

(A) Leadership abilities.

(B) Experience using leading practices to develop talent in the private sector.

(C) Other qualifying factors, including experience with and an understanding of the defense acquisition system (as defined in section 3001 of this title), an understanding of emerging technologies and the defense applications of such technologies, experience partnering with States, national associations, and academia, and experience with learning technologies.

(3) The term of the President of the Defense Acquisition University shall be not more than five years, unless the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment determines it necessary to extend the term for up to an additional five years. The preceding sentence does not apply to the President of the Defense Acquisition University serving on January 1, 2022.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1653; amended Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title IX, §904(d)(1), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1728; Pub. L. 104–106, div. A, title XV, §1503(a)(16), Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 512; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(b)(2), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1225; Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title VIII, §877(c)(1), (2)(A), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4306; Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title II, §214(b), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2048; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(c), title IX, §902(23), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1516, 1545; Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title X, §1081(a)(32), title XVIII, §1841(e)(1), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3872, 4244; Pub. L. 117–263, div. A, title VIII, §832(a), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 2712.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2022—Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 117–263, §832(a)(1)(A), amended par. (2) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (2) read as follows: "The professors, instructors, and lecturers employed under paragraph (1) shall include individuals from civilian colleges or universities that are not owned or operated by the Federal Government, commercial learning and development organizations, industry, or federally funded research and development centers."

Subsec. (b)(3) to (5). Pub. L. 117–263, §832(a)(1)(B), (C), redesignated pars. (4) and (5) as (3) and (4), respectively, and struck out former par. (3) which read as follows: "The Secretary of Defense shall ensure that—

"(A) not later than September 1, 2021, not less than five full-time visiting professors employed under paragraph (1) are from civilian colleges or universities described under paragraph (2); and

"(B) not later than September 1, 2022, not less than ten full-time visiting professors employed under paragraph (1) are from such civilian colleges or universities."

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 117–263, §832(a)(2), substituted "extramural institutions (as defined in section 1746a(g) of this title)" for "commercial training providers".

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 117–263, §832(a)(3), added subsec. (e).

2021—Subsec. (b)(3)(A). Pub. L. 116–283, §1081(a)(32), struck out the second semicolon before "and".

Subsec. (d)(1). Pub. L. 116–283, §1841(e)(1), substituted "section 4001" for "section 2358".

2019—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 116–92, §902(23), substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (b)(2) to (5). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(c)(1), added pars. (2) and (3) and redesignated former pars. (2) and (3) as (4) and (5), respectively.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 116–92, §861(c)(2), inserted ", and with commercial training providers," after "military departments".

2016—Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 114–328 added subsec. (d).

2011—Pub. L. 111–383, §877(c)(2)(A), substituted "Defense Acquisition University" for "Defense acquisition university structure" in section catchline.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 111–383, §877(c)(1), added subsec. (c).

2001—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 107–107 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology" in introductory provisions.

1996—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 104–106 struck out "(1)" before "The Secretary of Defense" and redesignated subpars. (A) and (B) as pars. (1) and (2), respectively.

1993—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 103–160 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2021 Amendment

Amendment by section 1841(e)(1) of Pub. L. 116–283 effective Jan. 1, 2022, with additional provisions for delayed implementation and applicability of existing law, see section 1801(d) of Pub. L. 116–283, set out as a note preceding section 3001 of this title.

Effective Date

Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1209(h)(1), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1667, provided that: "Subsection (b) of section 1746 of title 10, United States Code (as added by section 1202), shall take effect with respect to the Defense Systems Management College on the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 5, 1990]."

Implementation Report

Pub. L. 117–263, div. A, title VIII, §832(b), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 2712, provided that: "Not later than March 1, 2023, the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the congressional defense committees [Committees on Armed Services and Appropriations of the Senate and the House of Representatives] a plan to modify the defense acquisition university structure to comply with section 1746(b)(2) of title 10, United States Code, as amended by subsection (a). Such plan shall establish a date of not later than March 1, 2026, for such modification to be completed."

Curricula on Software Acquisitions and Cybersecurity Software or Hardware Acquisitions for Covered Individuals

Pub. L. 117–263, div. A, title VIII, §835, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 2715, provided that:

"(a) Curricula.—The President of the Defense Acquisition University, shall supplement existing training curricula related to software acquisitions and cybersecurity software or hardware acquisitions and offer such curricula to covered individuals to increase digital literacy related to such acquisitions by developing the ability of such covered individuals to use technology to identify, critically evaluate, and synthesize data and information related to such acquisitions.

"(b) Elements.—Curricula developed pursuant to subsection (a) shall provide information on—

"(1) cybersecurity, information technology systems, computer networks, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, distributed ledger technologies, and quantum technologies;

"(2) cybersecurity threats and capabilities;

"(3) activities that encompass the full range of threat reduction, vulnerability reduction, deterrence, incident response, resiliency, and recovery policies and activities, including activities relating to computer network operations, information assurance, military missions, and intelligence missions to the extent such activities relate to the security and stability of cyberspace; and

"(4) the industry best practices relating to software acquisitions and cybersecurity software or hardware acquisitions.

"(c) Plan.—Not later than 180 days after enactment of this Act [Dec. 23, 2022], the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the President of the Defense Acquisition University, shall submit to Congress a comprehensive plan to implement the curricula developed under subsection (a) that includes a comparison with similar existing training curricula. Such plan shall include a list of resources required for and costs associated with such implementation, including—

"(1) curriculum development;

"(2) hiring instructors to teach the curriculum;

"(3) facilities; or

"(4) website development.

"(d) Implementation.—Not later than one year after the date on which the plan described in subsection (d) [sic; probably should be "subsection (c)"] is submitted to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives, the President of the Defense Acquisition University shall offer the curricula developed under subsection (a) to covered individuals.

"(e) Report.—Not later than one year after the date on which the plan described in subsection (d) [sic; probably should be "subsection (c)"] is submitted to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives, the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the President of the Defense Acquisition University, shall submit to Congress a report assessing the costs and benefits of requiring all covered individuals to complete the curricula developed under subsection (a).

"(f) Covered Individuals Defined.—In this section, the term 'covered individuals' means an individual serving in a position designated under section 1721(b) of title 10, United States Code, who is regularly consulted for software acquisitions or cybersecurity software or hardware acquisitions."

Training in Commercial Items Procurement

Pub. L. 115–91, div. A, title VIII, §850, Dec. 12, 2017, 131 Stat. 1488, provided that:

"(a) Training.—Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 12, 2017], the President of the Defense Acquisition University shall establish a comprehensive training program on part 12 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation. The training shall cover, at a minimum, the following topics:

"(1) The origin of part 12 and the congressional mandate to prefer commercial procurements.

"(2) The definition of a commercial item, with a particular focus on the 'of a type' concept.

"(3) Price analysis and negotiations.

"(4) Market research and analysis.

"(5) Independent cost estimates.

"(6) Parametric estimating methods.

"(7) Value analysis.

"(8) Best practices in pricing from commercial sector organizations, foreign government organizations, and other Federal, State, and local public sectors organizations.

"(9) Other topics on commercial procurements necessary to ensure a well-educated acquisition workforce.

"(b) Enrollments Goals.—The President of the Defense Acquisition University shall set goals for student enrollment for the comprehensive training program established under subsection (a).

"(c) Supporting Activities.—The Secretary of Defense shall, in support of the achievement of the goals of this section—

"(1) engage academic experts on research topics of interest to improve commercial item identification and pricing methodologies; and

"(2) facilitate exchange and interface opportunities between government personnel to increase awareness of best practices and challenges in commercial item identification and pricing.

"(d) Funding.—The Secretary of Defense shall use amounts available in the Department of Defense Acquisition Workforce Development Fund established under section 1705 of title 10, United States Code, to fund the comprehensive training program established under subsection (a)."

Training on Agile or Iterative Development Methods

Pub. L. 115–91, div. A, title VIII, §891, Dec. 12, 2017, 131 Stat. 1509, provided that:

"(a) In General.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 12, 2017], the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the President of the Defense Acquisition University, shall establish a training course at the Defense Acquisition University on agile or iterative development methods to provide training for personnel implementing and supporting the pilot programs required by sections 873 and 874 of this Act [10 U.S.C. 4571 note, 10 U.S.C. 3101 note prec.].

"(b) Course Elements.—

"(1) In general.—The course shall be taught in residence at the Defense Acquisition University and shall include the following elements:

"(A) Training designed to instill a common understanding of all functional roles and dependencies involved in developing and producing a capability using agile or iterative development methods.

"(B) An exercise involving teams composed of personnel from pertinent functions and functional organizations engaged in developing an integrated agile or iterative development method for a specific program.

"(C) Instructors and content from non-governmental entities, as appropriate, to highlight commercial best practices in using an agile or iterative development method.

"(2) Course updates.—The Secretary shall ensure that the course is updated as needed, including through incorporating lessons learned from the implementation of the pilot programs required by sections 873 and 874 of this Act in subsequent versions of the course.

"(c) Course Attendance.—The course shall be—

"(1) available for certified acquisition personnel working on programs or projects using agile or iterative development methods; and

"(2) mandatory for personnel participating in the pilot programs required by sections 873 and 874 of this Act from the relevant organizations in each of the military departments and Defense Agencies, including organizations responsible for engineering, budgeting, contracting, test and evaluation, requirements validation, and certification and accreditation.

"(d) Agile Acquisition Support.—The Secretary and the senior acquisition executives in each of the military departments and Defense Agencies, in coordination with the Director of the Defense Digital Service, shall assign to offices supporting systems selected for participation in the pilot programs required by sections 873 and 874 of this Act a subject matter expert with knowledge of commercial agile acquisition methods and Department of Defense acquisition processes to provide assistance and to advise appropriate acquisition authorities of the expert's observations.

"(e) Agile Research Program.—The President of the Defense Acquisition University shall establish a research program to conduct research on and development of agile acquisition practices and tools best tailored to meet the mission needs of the Department of Defense.

"(f) Agile or Iterative Development Defined.—The term 'agile or iterative development', with respect to software—

"(1) means acquisition pursuant to a method for delivering multiple, rapid, incremental capabilities to the user for operational use, evaluation, and feedback not exclusively linked to any single, proprietary method or process; and

"(2) involves—

"(A) the incremental development and fielding of capabilities, commonly called 'spirals', 'spins', or 'sprints', which can be measured in a few weeks or months; and

"(B) continuous participation and collaboration by users, testers, and requirements authorities."

Contractor Incentives To Achieve Savings and Improve Mission Performance

Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title VIII, §832, Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2283, as amended by Pub. L. 117–263, div. A, title VIII, §814(b), Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 2707, provided that: "Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 23, 2016], the Defense Acquisition University shall develop and implement a training program for Department of Defense acquisition personnel on fixed-price incentive contracts, public-private partnerships, performance-based contracting, and other authorities in law and regulation designed to give incentives to contractors to achieve long-term savings and improve administrative practices and mission performance."

[Pub. L. 117–263, §814(b), which directed amendment of section 832 of Pub. L. 114–328, set out above, by substituting "fixed-price incentive contracts" for "fixed-price incentive fee contracts", was executed by making the substitution for "fixed-priced incentive fee contracts" to reflect the probable intent of Congress.]

Establishment of Initial Defense Acquisition University Structure

Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1205, Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1658, as amended by Pub. L. 105–85, div. A, title X, §1073(d)(4)(A), Nov. 18, 1997, 111 Stat. 1905, provided that, not later than Oct. 1, 1991, the Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology, was to prescribe regulations for the initial structure for a defense acquisition university under this section and to prescribe and submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and House of Representatives an implementation plan, including a charter, for the university structure, and not later than Aug. 1, 1992, the Secretary was to carry out the implementation plan.

§1746a. Acquisition workforce educational partnerships

(a) Establishment.—The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, shall establish a program within Defense Acquisition University to—

(1) facilitate the engagement of relevant experts, including with the acquisition research activities established under section 4142 of this title, with the faculty of the Defense Acquisition University to assess and modify the curriculum of the Defense Acquisition University, as appropriate, to enhance the capabilities of the Defense Acquisition University to support educational, training, and research activities in support of acquisition missions of the Department of Defense;

(2) establish a cross-discipline, peer mentoring program for academic advising and to address critical retention concerns with respect to the acquisition workforce;

(3) partner with extramural institutions and military department functional leadership to offer training and on-the-job learning support to all members of the acquisition workforce addressing operational challenges that affect procurement decisionmaking;

(4) support the partnerships between the Department of Defense and extramural institutions with missions relating to the training and continuous development of members of the acquisition workforce;

(5) accelerate the adoption, appropriate design and customization, and use of flexible acquisition practices by the acquisition workforce by expanding the availability of training and on-the-job learning and guidance on such practices and incorporating such training into the curriculum of the Defense Acquisition University; and

(6) support and enhance the capabilities of the faculty of the Defense Acquisition University, and the currency and applicability of the knowledge possessed by such faculty, by—

(A) building partnerships between the faculty of the Defense Acquisition University and the director of, and individuals involved with, the activities established under section 4142 of this title;

(B) supporting the preparation and drafting of the reports required under subsection (f)(2); and

(C) instituting a program under which each member of the faculty of the Defense Acquisition University shall be detailed to an operational acquisition position in a military department or Defense Agency, or to an extramural institution, for not less than six months out of every five year period.

(b) Senior Official.—Not later than 180 days after the enactment of this section, the President of the Defense Acquisition University shall designate a senior official to execute activities under this section.

(c) Support From Other Department of Defense Organizations.—The Secretary of Defense may direct other elements of the Department of Defense to provide personnel, resources, and other support to the program established under this section, as the Secretary determines appropriate.

(d) Funding.—Subject to the availability of appropriations, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment may use amounts available in the Defense Acquisition Workforce and Development Account (as established under section 1705 of this title) to carry out the requirements of this section.

(e) Annual Reports.—Not later than September 30, 2022, and annually thereafter, the President of the Defense Acquisition University shall submit to the Secretary of Defense and the congressional defense committees a report describing the activities conducted under this section during the one-year period ending on the date on which such report is submitted.

(f) Exemption to Report Termination Requirements.—Section 1080(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 (Public Law 114–92; 129 Stat. 1000; 10 U.S.C. 111 note), as amended by section 1061(j) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public Law 114–328; 130 Stat. 2405; 10 U.S.C. 111 note), does not apply with respect to the reports required to be submitted to Congress under this section.

(g) Definitions.—In this section:

(1) Acquisition workforce.—The term "acquisition workforce" has the meaning given such term in section 1705(g) of this title.

(2) Extramural institutions.—The term "extramural institutions" means participants in an activity established under section 4142 of this title, public sector organizations, and nonprofit credentialing organizations.

(Added Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title VIII, §801(a), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 1811; amended Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title XVIII, §1883(b)(2), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 4294.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The enactment of this section, referred to in subsec. (b), probably means the date of enactment of Pub. L. 117–81, which was approved Dec. 27, 2021.

Amendments

2021—Subsecs. (a)(1), (6)(A), (g)(2). Pub. L. 116–283 substituted "section 4142" for "section 2361a".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2021 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 116–283 effective Jan. 1, 2022, with additional provisions for delayed implementation and applicability of existing law, see section 1801(d) of Pub. L. 116–283, set out as a note preceding section 3001 of this title.

§1747. Acquisition fellowship program

(a) Establishment.—The Secretary of Defense shall establish and carry out an acquisition fellowship program in accordance with this section in order to enhance the ability of the Department of Defense to recruit employees who are highly qualified in fields of acquisition.

(b) Number of Fellowships.—The Secretary of Defense may designate up to 25 prospective employees of the Department of Defense as acquisition fellows.

(c) Eligibility.—In order to be eligible for designation as an acquisition fellow, an employee—

(1) must complete at least 2 years of Federal Government service as an employee in an acquisition position in the Department of Defense; and

(2) must be serving in an acquisition position in the Department of Defense that involves the performance of duties likely to result in significant restrictions under law on the employment activities of that employee after leaving Government service.

(d) Two-Year Period of Research and Teaching.—Under the fellowship program, the Secretary of Defense shall pay designated acquisition fellows to engage in research or teaching for a 2-year period in a field related to Federal Government acquisition policy. Such research or teaching may be conducted in the defense acquisition university structure of the Department of Defense, any other institution of professional education of the Federal Government, or a nonprofit institution of higher education. Each fellow shall be paid at a rate equal to the rate of pay payable for the level of the position in which the fellow served in the Department of Defense before undertaking such research or teaching.

(Added Pub. L. 102–484, div. A, title VIII, §841(a), Oct. 23, 1992, 106 Stat. 2468, §2410h; renumbered §1747, Pub. L. 107–314, div. A, title X, §1062(a)(10)(A), Dec. 2, 2002, 116 Stat. 2650.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2002—Pub. L. 107–314 renumbered section 2410h of this title as this section.

§1748. Fulfillment standards for acquisition workforce training

The Secretary of Defense, acting through the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, shall develop fulfillment standards, and implement and maintain a program, for purposes of the training requirements of sections 1723, 1724, and 1735 of this title. Such fulfillment standards shall consist of criteria for determining whether an individual has demonstrated competence in the areas that would be taught in the training courses required under those sections. If an individual meets the appropriate fulfillment standard, the applicable training requirement is fulfilled.

(Added Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title VIII, §874(b)(1), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4304; amended Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title IX, §902(24), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1545.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

Provisions similar to those in this section were contained in Pub. L. 105–85, div. A, title VIII, §853, Nov. 18, 1997, 111 Stat. 1851, which was set out as a note under section 1723 of this title, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 111–383, §874(b)(4).

Amendments

2019—Pub. L. 116–92 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Deadline for Fulfillment Standards

Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title VIII, §874(b)(3), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4305, provided that: "The fulfillment standards required under section 1748 of title 10, United States Code, as added by paragraph (1), shall be developed not later than 270 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Jan. 7, 2011]."

SUBCHAPTER V—GENERAL MANAGEMENT PROVISIONS

        

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2021—Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title XVIII, §1878A(b), as added by Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title XVII, §1701(q)(2), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 2149, added item 1766.

Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title X, §1081(c)(4), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3873, amended Pub. L. 116–92, §861(i)(2), effective as if included therein. See 2019 Amendment note below.

2019—Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(i)(2), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1519, as amended by Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title X, §1081(c)(4), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3873, added item 1765.

2011—Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title VIII, §872(a)(2), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4302, added item 1762.

2003—Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §836(4), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1552, added item 1764 and struck out item 1763 "Reassignment of authority".

2001—Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(e)(7)(B), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1228, struck out items 1762 "Report to Secretary of Defense" and 1764 "Authority to establish different minimum experience requirements".

§1761. Management information system

(a) In General.—The Secretary of Defense shall prescribe regulations to ensure that the military departments and Defense Agencies establish a management information system capable of providing standardized information to the Secretary on persons serving in acquisition positions.

(b) Minimum Information.—The management information system shall, at a minimum, provide for the following:

(1) The collection and retention of information concerning the qualifications, assignments, and tenure of persons in the acquisition workforce.

(2) Any exceptions and waivers granted with respect to the application of qualification, assignment, and tenure policies, procedures, and practices to such persons.

(3) Relative promotion rates for military personnel in the acquisition workforce.

(Added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1653; amended Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title IX, §904(d)(1), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1728; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(b)(2), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1225; Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title X, §1084(d)(15), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 2062.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2004—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 108–375 substituted "provide for the following:" for "provide for—" in introductory provisions, capitalized first letter of first word in pars. (1) to (3), substituted period for semicolon at end in pars. (1) and (2), substituted period for "; and" at end in par. (3), and struck out par. (4) which read as follows: "collection of the information necessary for the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics and the Secretary of Defense to comply with the requirements of section 1762 for the years in which that section is in effect."

2001—Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 107–107 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology".

1993—Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 103–160 substituted "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology" for "Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Establishment of Management Information System

Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1209(k), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1667, required the Secretary of Defense to prescribe in regulations the requirements under this section for the uniform management information system by Oct. 1, 1991, and ensure that the requirements were implemented by Oct. 1, 1992.

§1762. Demonstration project relating to certain acquisition personnel management policies and procedures

(a) Commencement.—The Secretary of Defense is authorized to carry out a demonstration project, the purpose of which is to determine the feasibility or desirability of one or more proposals for improving the personnel management policies or procedures that apply with respect to the acquisition workforce of the Department of Defense and supporting personnel assigned to work directly with the acquisition workforce.

(b) Terms and Conditions.—(1) Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, any demonstration project described in subsection (a) shall be subject to section 4703 of title 5 and all other provisions of such title that apply with respect to any demonstration project under such section.

(2) Subject to paragraph (3), in applying section 4703 of title 5 with respect to a demonstration project described in subsection (a)—

(A) "180 days" in subsection (b)(4) of such section shall be deemed to read "120 days";

(B) "90 days" in subsection (b)(6) of such section shall be deemed to read "30 days"; and

(C) subsection (d)(1) of such section shall be disregarded.

(3) Paragraph (2) shall not apply with respect to a demonstration project unless—

(A) for each organization or team participating in the demonstration project—

(i) at least one-third of the workforce participating in the demonstration project consists of members of the acquisition workforce; and

(ii) at least two-thirds of the workforce participating in the demonstration project consists of members of the acquisition workforce and supporting personnel assigned to work directly with the acquisition workforce; and

(B) the demonstration project commences before October 1, 2007.

(4) The Secretary of Defense shall exercise the authorities granted to the Office of Personnel Management under section 4703 of title 5 for purposes of the demonstration project authorized under this section.

(c) Limitation on Number of Participants.—The total number of persons who may participate at any one time in the demonstration project under this section may not exceed 130,000.

(d) Effect of Reorganizations.—The applicability of paragraph (2) of subsection (b) to an organization or team shall not terminate by reason that the organization or team, after having satisfied the conditions in paragraph (3) of such subsection when it began to participate in a demonstration project under this section, ceases to meet one or both of the conditions set forth in subparagraph (A) of such paragraph (3) as a result of a reorganization, restructuring, realignment, consolidation, or other organizational change.

(e) Assessments.—(1) The Secretary of Defense shall designate an independent organization to conduct two assessments of the acquisition workforce demonstration project described in subsection (a).

(2) Each such assessment shall include the following:

(A) A description of the workforce included in the project.

(B) An explanation of the flexibilities used in the project to appoint individuals to the acquisition workforce and whether those appointments are based on competitive procedures and recognize veteran's preferences.

(C) An explanation of the flexibilities used in the project to develop a performance appraisal system that recognizes excellence in performance and offers opportunities for improvement.

(D) The steps taken to ensure that such system is fair and transparent for all employees in the project.

(E) How the project allows the organization to better meet mission needs.

(F) An analysis of how the flexibilities in subparagraphs (B) and (C) are used, and what barriers have been encountered that inhibit their use.

(G) Whether there is a process for—

(i) ensuring ongoing performance feedback and dialogue among supervisors, managers, and employees throughout the performance appraisal period; and

(ii) setting timetables for performance appraisals.

(H) The project's impact on career progression.

(I) The project's appropriateness or inappropriateness in light of the complexities of the workforce affected.

(J) The project's sufficiency in terms of providing protections for diversity in promotion and retention of personnel.

(K) The adequacy of the training, policy guidelines, and other preparations afforded in connection with using the project.

(L) Whether there is a process for ensuring employee involvement in the development and improvement of the project.

(3) The first assessment under this subsection shall be completed not later than September 30, 2012. The second and final assessment shall be completed not later than September 30, 2016. The Secretary shall submit to the covered congressional committees a copy of each assessment within 30 days after receipt by the Secretary of the assessment.

(f) Covered Congressional Committees.—In this section, the term "covered congressional committees" means—

(1) the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives;

(2) the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate; and

(3) the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform of the House of Representatives.

(g) Termination of Authority.—The authority to conduct a demonstration project under this section shall terminate on December 31, 2026.

(h) Conversion.—Within 6 months after the authority to conduct a demonstration project under this section is terminated as provided in subsection (g), employees in the project shall convert to the civilian personnel system created pursuant to section 9902 of title 5.

(Added Pub. L. 111–383, div. A, title VIII, §872(a)(1), Jan. 7, 2011, 124 Stat. 4300; amended Pub. L. 114–92, div. A, title VIII, §846, Nov. 25, 2015, 129 Stat. 916; Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title VIII, §867(a), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2306; Pub. L. 115–91, div. A, title VIII, §844(a), (b), Dec. 12, 2017, 131 Stat. 1482; Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title XVII, §1731(a)(27), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1813; Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title VIII, §812, Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 1823.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1762, added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1654; amended Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title IX, §904(d)(1), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1728; Pub. L. 106–65, div. A, title IX, §911(a)(1), Oct. 5, 1999, 113 Stat. 717, related to report by the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics to the Secretary of Defense on the status of the defense acquisition workforce, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(e)(7)(A), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1227.

Provisions similar to those in this section were contained in Pub. L. 104–106, div. D, title XLIII, §4308, Feb. 10, 1996, 110 Stat. 669, which was set out as a note under section 1701 of this title, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 111–383, §872(b).

Amendments

2021—Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 117–81 substituted "December 31, 2026" for "December 31, 2023".

2019—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 116–92 substituted "at any one time in" for "in at any one time".

2017—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 115–91, §844(b), substituted "at any one time the demonstration project under this section may not exceed 130,000" for "the demonstration project under this section may not exceed 120,000".

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 115–91, §844(a), substituted "December 31, 2023" for "December 31, 2020".

2016—Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 114–328 added par. (4).

2015—Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 114–92 substituted "demonstration project" for "demonstration program" and "December 31, 2020" for "September 30, 2017".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name

Committee on Oversight and Government Reform of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Oversight and Reform of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 6, One Hundred Sixteenth Congress, Jan. 9, 2019. Committee on Oversight and Reform of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Oversight and Accountability of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 5, One Hundred Eighteenth Congress, Jan. 9, 2023.

Effective Date of 2016 Amendment

Pub. L. 114–328, div. A, title VIII, §867(b), Dec. 23, 2016, 130 Stat. 2306, provided that: "Paragraph (4) of section 1762(b) of title 10, United States Code, as added by subsection (a), shall take effect on the first day of the first month beginning 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 23, 2016]."

[§1763. Repealed. Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §835(1), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1551]

Section, added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1656; amended Pub. L. 103–160, div. A, title IX, §904(d)(1), Nov. 30, 1993, 107 Stat. 1728; Pub. L. 105–85, div. A, title X, §1073(a)(33), Nov. 18, 1997, 111 Stat. 1902; Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(b)(2), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1225, related to reassignment of authority by Secretary of Defense.

§1764. Authority to establish different minimum requirements

(a) Authority.—(1) The Secretary of Defense may prescribe a different minimum number of years of experience, different minimum education qualifications, and different tenure of service qualifications to be required for eligibility for appointment or advancement to an acquisition position referred to in subsection (b) than is required for such position under or pursuant to any provision of this chapter.

(2) Any requirement prescribed under paragraph (1) for a position referred to in any paragraph of subsection (b) shall be applied uniformly to all positions referred to in such paragraph.

(b) Applicability.—This section applies to the following acquisition positions in the Department of Defense:

(1) Contracting officer, except a position referred to in paragraph (6).

(2) Program executive officer.

(3) Senior contracting official.

(4) Program manager.

(5) Deputy program manager.

(6) A position in the contract contingency force of an armed force that is filled by a member of that armed force.

(c) Definition.—In this section, the term "contract contingency force", with respect to an armed force, has the meaning given such term in regulations prescribed by the Secretary concerned.

(Added Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title VIII, §835(2), Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1551; amended Pub. L. 108–375, div. A, title VIII, §812(c), Oct. 28, 2004, 118 Stat. 2013.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 1764, added Pub. L. 101–510, div. A, title XII, §1202(a), Nov. 5, 1990, 104 Stat. 1656, related to authority to establish different minimum experience requirements, prior to repeal by Pub. L. 107–107, div. A, title X, §1048(e)(7)(A), Dec. 28, 2001, 115 Stat. 1227.

Amendments

2004—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 108–375, §812(c)(2), substituted "in paragraph (6)" for "in paragraph (5)".

Subsec. (b)(5), (6). Pub. L. 108–375, §812(c)(1), added par. (5) and redesignated former par. (5) as (6).

§1765. Competency development

For each acquisition workforce career field, the Secretary of Defense shall—

(1) establish, for the civilian personnel in that career field, defined proficiency standards and technical and nontechnical competencies which shall be used in personnel qualification assessments; and

(2) assign resources to accomplish such technical and nontechnical competencies.

(Added Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(i)(1), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1518.)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Deadline for Implementation

Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title VIII, §861(i)(3), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1519, provided that: "Not later than the end of the two-year period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 20, 2019], the Secretary of Defense shall carry out the requirements of section 1765 of title 10, United States Code (as added by paragraph (1))."

§1766. Joint reserve detachment of the Defense Innovation Unit

(a) Establishment.—The Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Secretaries of the military departments, may establish a joint reserve detachment (referred to in this section as the "Detachment") composed of members of the reserve components described in subsection (b) to be assigned to each office of the Defense Innovation Unit to—

(1) support engagement and collaboration with private-sector industry and the community surrounding the location of such office; and

(2) accelerate the use and adoption of commercially-developed technologies for national security purposes.

(b) Members.—Each Secretary of a military department shall select for the Detachment, and make efforts to retain, members of the reserve components who possess relevant private-sector experience in the fields of business, acquisition, intelligence, engineering, technology transfer, science, mathematics, program management, logistics, cybersecurity, or such other fields as determined by the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.

(c) Duties.—The Detachment shall have the following duties:

(1) Providing the Department of Defense with—

(A) expertise on and analysis of commercially-developed technologies;

(B) commercially-developed technologies to be used as alternatives for technologies in use by the Department; and

(C) opportunities for greater engagement and collaboration between the Department and private-sector industry on innovative technologies.

(2) On an ongoing basis—

(A) partnering with the military departments, the combatant commands, and other Department of Defense organizations to—

(i) identify and rapidly prototype commercially-developed technologies; and

(ii) use alternative contracting mechanisms to procure such technologies;

(B) increasing awareness of—

(i) the work of the Defense Innovation Unit; and

(ii) the technology requirements of the Department of Defense, as identified in the most recent—

(I) National Defense Strategy;

(II) National Defense Science and Technology Strategy as directed under section 218 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 132 Stat. 1679); and

(III) relevant policy and guidance from the Secretary of Defense; and

(C) using the investment in research and development made by private-sector industry in assessing and developing dual-use technologies.

(3) Carrying out other activities as directed by the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.

(d) Joint Duty.—Assignment to a Detachment shall not qualify as a joint duty assignment, as defined in section 668(b)(1) of title 10, United States Code, unless approved by the Secretary of Defense.

(Added Pub. L. 116–92, div. A, title II, §213(a)(1), Dec. 20, 2019, 133 Stat. 1256, §2358b; amended Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title X, §1081(a)(37), title XVIII, §1842(b), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 3872, 4244; renumbered §1766, Pub. L. 116–283, div. A, title XVIII, §1878A(a), as added Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title XVII, §1701(q)(2), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 2149; Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title II, §§211(d), 213(a), title XVII, §1701(q)(1), (u)(3)(B), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 1587, 1588, 2148, 2152; Pub. L. 118–31, div. A, title IX, §913(a)(4), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 368.)

Amendment of Subsections (b) and (c)(3)

Pub. L. 118–31, div. A, title IX, §913(a)(4), (b)(1), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 368, provided that, effective 180 days after Dec. 22, 2023, this section is amended:

(A) in subsection (b), by striking "as determined by the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering" and inserting "as determined by the Secretary of Defense"; and

(B) in subsection (c)(3), by striking "as directed by the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering" and inserting "as directed by the Secretary of Defense".

See 2023 Amendment notes below.

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Section 218 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019, referred to in subsec. (c)(2)(B)(ii)(II), is section 218 of Pub. L. 115–232, div. A, title II, Aug. 13, 2018, 132 Stat. 1679, which was repealed and restated as section 118c of this title by Pub. L. 117–81, div. A, title II, §211(a), (c), Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 1585, 1587. Amendment striking reference to repealed section 218 of Pub. L. 115–232 and inserting reference to section 118c of this title was undone by subsequent general amendment, which reinstated the prior reference. See 2021 Amendment notes below.

Amendments

2023—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 118–31, §913(a)(4)(A), substituted "as determined by the Secretary of Defense" for "as determined by the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering".

Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 118–31, §913(a)(4)(B), substituted "as directed by the Secretary of Defense" for "as directed by the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering".

2021—Pub. L. 116–283, §1878A(a), as added by Pub. L. 117–81, §1701(q)(2), renumbered section 2358b of this title as this section.

Pub. L. 116–283, §1842(b), which directed the renumbering of section 2358b of this title as section 4064 instead of this section, was amended by Pub. L. 117–81, §1701(q)(1), (u)(3)(B), effective as if included therein, so that such renumbering was no longer directed.

Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 116–283, §1081(a)(37), substituted "accelerate" for "to accelerate".

Subsec. (c)(2)(B)(ii). Pub. L. 117–81, §213(a), amended cl. (ii) generally. Prior to amendment, cl. (ii) read as follows: "the technology requirements of the Department of Defense as identified in the National Defense Science and Technology Strategy developed under section 118c of this title; and".

Pub. L. 117–81, §211(d), substituted "section 118c of this title" for "section 218 of the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 (Public Law 115–232; 132 Stat. 1679)".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 2023 Amendment

Pub. L. 118–31, div. A, title IX, §913(b)(1), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 368, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) [enacting section 4127 of this title and amending this section and sections 4021 and 4022 of this title] shall take effect 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 22, 2023]."

Effective Date of 2021 Amendment

Amendment by section 1701(q), (u)(3)(B) of Pub. L. 117–81 applicable as if included in the enactment of title XVIII of Pub. L. 116–283 as enacted, see section 1701(a)(2) of Pub. L. 117–81, set out in a note preceding section 3001 of this title and note below.

Amendment by Pub. L. 116–283 effective Jan. 1, 2022, with additional provisions for delayed implementation and applicability of existing law, see section 1801(d) of Pub. L. 116–283, set out as a note preceding section 3001 of this title.

Implementation of 2023 Amendment

Pub. L. 118–31, div. A, title IX, §913(b)(2), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 368, provided that: "Not later than the effective date specified in paragraph (1) [set out as an Effective Date of 2023 Amendment note above], the Secretary of Defense shall issue or modify any rules, regulations, policies, or other guidance necessary to implement the amendments made by subsection (a) [enacting section 4127 of this title and amending this section and sections 4021 and 4022 of this title]."