The Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) is a modernization framework designed to enhance the affordability, adaptability, and sustainability of Army equipment systems throughout their lifecycle. MOSA is particularly significant in the defense sector due to the fact that it is mandated by U.S. law for major defense acquisition programs.
Modular Open Systems Approach
Specifically, what is MOSA? Let’s look at its nine key guidelines:
1. Modular Design
At the heart of MOSA is modular design – creating systems with interchangeable components that can be easily added, modified, or replaced. This modular approach allows for greater flexibility and scalability, enabling systems to evolve with changing requirements. We are seeing first-hand how quickly the battlefield requirements are changing with the war in Ukraine.
2. Open Standards
Another core principle of MOSA. Open standards mean using widely supported, consensus-based standards for system interfaces, which ensures interoperability and reduces vendor lock-in – the use of proprietary systems which limits the ability to update capabilities. Open standards facilitate seamless integration of components from different suppliers, thereby enhancing the robustness and innovation of systems. Other open DOD systems falling under the MOSA initiative right now include the Sensor Open Systems Architecture (SOSA), the Future Airborne Capability Environment (FACE), and Vehicular Integration for C4ISR/EW Interoperability (VICTORY).
3. Loosely Coupled Architecture
This allows individual system components to operate independently while still functioning as part of the larger system. This reduces dependencies and simplifies maintenance and upgrades, leading to more resilient systems.
4. Verification and Validation
With multiple vendors working on a project, verification and validation is critical to ensure components meet the required specifications and that all parts function correctly within the system. Verification helps maintain system integrity and performance.
5. Stakeholder Collaboration
To be effective in implementing MOSA, active involvement from multiple stakeholders, including system designers, developers, and end-users is cruical. Collaboration ensures that the system meets the needs of all parties and leverages their expertise to achieve the best possible outcomes.
6. Lifecycle Management
MOSA is not just about initial system design; it also encompasses the entire lifecycle of the system … from development to sustainment. This holistic approach ensures that systems remain adaptable and cost-effective throughout their operational life.
7. Training and Workforce Development
Because MOSA is so different from legacy design systems, to successfully implement MOSA an investment in training and workforce development must be made by all parties involved. This includes educating engineers, technicians, and managers on the principles and practices of modular and open systems, as well as providing resources for continuous learning.
8. Policy and Regulatory Compliance
Policy and regulation compliance is mandatory for MOSA implementation. This means adhering to DoD directives, acquisition strategies, and other legal requirements that govern the use of modular and open systems.
9. Continuous Improvement
MOSA encourages a culture of continuous improvement, where feedback from system performance and user experiences are used to refine and enhance the design and functionality of a system. This continuous process to make it better helps to keep systems up-to-date and aligned with evolving needs on the battlefield.
How MOSA Is Being Used Today
MOSA is not some fantasy design system of the future – it is being used actively here today in the defense sector to modernize military platforms and enhance their capabilities. For example …
Future Vertical Lift (FVL) Program
The U.S. Army’s Future Vertical Lift (FVL) program, which includes the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA), is leveraging MOSA to improve interoperability, affordability, and the ability to quickly integrate new technologies. This approach allows for seamless upgrades and integration of components from different suppliers, enhancing system robustness and innovation.
Current Fleet Modernization
MOSA is also being used to modernize the Army’s current fleet of Black Hawk, Chinook, and Apache helicopters. By adopting an open digital architecture, the Army aims to increase interoperability, affordability, and the ability to upgrade and integrate new technologies. This ensures that existing platforms can remain relevant and effective in the face of evolving threats.
In one example, certain cables in Chinooks were failing due to their age. By using cables with interconnect technology, designed to work in environment of the Chinook, they were able to increase the reliability of the aging platform and lower the cost of maintenance.
Interoperability and Flexibility
One of the primary goals of MOSA in the defense sector is to achieve greater interoperability and flexibility. By using open standards and modular designs, the Department of Defense (DoD) can acquire warfighting capabilities, including systems, subsystems, software components, and services, with more flexibility and competition. By eliminating vendor lock, MOSA allows for the integration of diverse components and technologies from the defense manufacturing sector, enhancing overall system performance and adaptability.
Enhanced Capabilities
MOSA enables the incorporation of advanced capabilities, such as launched effects and autonomy into military systems. This allows for more effective and efficient operations, providing warfighters with the necessary tools and equipment to maintain a competitive edge on modern battlefields.
Sustainability and Lifecycle Management
By adopting MOSA, the defense sector aims to achieve competitive and affordable acquisition and sustainment over the lifecycle of each system. This holistic approach ensures that systems remain adaptable and cost-effective throughout their operational life, reducing the need for costly and disruptive overhauls.
Overall, MOSA is playing a crucial role in transforming the defense sector by promoting innovation, interoperability, and sustainability. Its application in programs like FVL, the M1E3 Main Battle Tank modernization, the XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle (MICV) and other systems, using MOSA demonstrates its value in enhancing military capabilities and readiness.
By implementing MOSA, systems will not only be more efficient, flexible and cost-effective today, but easily adaptable and sustainable for the challenges on the battlefields of tomorrow.
