RAPID PROTOTYPING AS AN ACQUISITION STRATEGY OF THE AIR FORCE SATELLITE CONTROL NETWORK

Abstract

The Air Force Satellite Control Network (AFSCN) processes on the order of a thousand separate requirements each year to enhance Network capability to meet the support needs of various satellites. Many of these individual requirements are translated into modifications or additions to the network assets. Rapid Prototyping has been utilized successfully for complex and urgent developments to meet many of these requirements. Rapid Prototyping has also been used for requirements definition and for defining man/machine interfaces. Through Rapid Prototyping, the AFSCN has successfully developed applications using new technology and has improved the process of defining requirements for operational satellite support systems. Rapid prototyping is proving to be an effective alternative to the traditional system acquisition process