Weapon System Integrated Cost Model: An Automated Methodology for Affordability Evaluation

Laboratory developers and planners are required to prioritize the development of technologies for new systems relative to user needs. Designs for these new systems typically only exist at the conceptual level, yet trade studies much be performed to assess cost and effectiveness, as well as overall affordability. Developers and planners require a methodology and tool-set which enable concept cost and affordability estimation based on industry standards for development and production costs, and accurate system operating costs.Objectives of this SBIR are to refine a methodology for estimating total system life-cycle affordability considering cost as an independent variable and based on performance and operational requirements. The Cost Estimating Model (CEM) developed during this research project will be based on an existing cost tool developed for the Air Force Materiel Command Technical Planning Integrated Product Teams. The CEM will be capable of operating as a separate model or as a functional element of a more detailed Weapon System Integrated Cost Model. The Phase I program will demonstrate feasibility of the proposed approach, develop the required top-level affordability relationships and provide a prototype. The Phase II program would fully develop the tool and integrate it into the comprehensive Weapon System Integrated Cost Model.