Integrated Deepwater System PDF Download

The U.S. Coast Guard is in the process of recapitalizing its entire fleet of resources for offshore missions in one integrated long-term acquisition. The Integrated Deepwater System (IDS) Program will upgrade or replace the capabilities of existing assets in order to maximize operational effectiveness and minimize total ownership costs associated with the performance of all 'Deepwater' missions. This system of systems acquisition is unique in its breadth among all government acquisitions in that it includes surface assets, aircraft, C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) and logistics capabilities. Interoperability between all system assets will be a critical success factor of the Integrated Deepwater System performance. Success will be measured by the performance of the entire Deepwater System and total costs of operation and support. This paper will discuss how the program has focused on developing a framework for successfully ensuring interoperability as it applies to intra-Coast Guard and inter-agency operations. Among the methods discussed are: use of specifications, Government/Contractor relationships, design development, contracting vehicles, software tools and inter-agency agreements.