| This research reports the results of a policy modeling study in which a system dynamics simulation model of the United States weapon acquisition system was developed. The model integrates the impacts of the arms race, fiscal constraints, national budget priorities, the Department of Defense acquisition process, competing defense budget priorities, and the structure of the defense industrial base into a single model. The research presents the theoretical bases for the simulation model in the form of a graphical conceptual model. The conceptual model was developed after a review of the pertinent literature and in conjunction with interviews with senior analysts and executives representing the Congress, the executive branch, the Department of Defense, academia, and defense industry. The validation process for the simulation model and a demonstration of the policy evaluation capabilities of the model are presented. |
