Pentagon looks to shake up "outdated" software procurement, declares war on open source

• The US DOD wants to enhance security through unlocking greater supply chain visibility
• A new Software Fast-Track Initiative will arrive in the next 90 days
• The DOGE has already saved the DOD $6 billion

The US Department of Defense (DOD) is planning to overhaul its outdated software procurement systems, which it hopes will enhance security and supply chain visibility in a world of increasing vulnerabilities.

DOD CIO Katherine Arrington introduced the Software Fast-Track (SWFT) initiative to reform software acquisition, as well as authorization and testing, in a memo published online.

Arrington confirmed that, together with the Under Secretaries of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainbment, Intelligence and Security, and Research and Engineering, the DOD will submit the SWFT Framework within 90 days.

Dated software procurement processes

In the memo, Arrington explained the SWFT Framework will define "clear" and "specific" cybersecurity and Supple Chain Risk Management (SCRM) requirements, rigorous ...