Bidders Library Operational Test and Evaluation - DoTE MEMO 5-5-2010.pdf

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE

1700 DEFENSE PENTAGON

WASHINGTON, DC 20301·1700

MAY 052010

OPERATIONAL TEST

AND EVALUATION

MEMORANDUM FOR SECRETARIES OF THE MILITARY DEPARTMENTS

SUBJECT: Timely Provision of Test Data

This memorandum supersedes my memo of the same subject dated April 23, 2010.

It provides my expectations for timely and comprehensive access to test data. I recently issued guidance to emphasize the importance of timely evaluation and reporting of test results. DOT&E, by law, conducts independent evaluation of operational testing and has been assigned responsibility for live fire testing under 10 U.S.C. 2366. Inherent in this responsibility is the independent assessment of test data (both raw and processed). I look forward to working with your organizations to assure timely receipt of the data necessary for DOT&E to fulfill its responsibilities.

Section 139 of title 10, United States Code, provides that DOT&E will have access to all data and records in the Department of Defense that the Director considers necessary to carry out his responsibilities. In order to conduct independent evaluation in a timely manner, I expect DOT&E personnel, and such properly cleared observers as I designate, to be present during the preparation for and conduct of the tests and to be provided the same data at the same time as personnel from, or supporting, the Operational Test Agency. DOT&E personnel are also authorized to request whatever additional data they consider necessary for analysis; these data should be provided in a timely manner.

DOT&E will normally request and receive data and records through the Operational Test Agency to promote efficient operations. However, DOT&E personnel are also authorized to request and receive information directly from other organizations within the Department of Defense. In particular, an organization providing analysis or other support to an Operational Test Agency must also provide data and communicate freely and directly with DOT&E personnel on all matters related to testing. DOT&E personnel must not be excluded from data review sessions or other avenues of information exchange between the Operational Test Agency and supporting organization.

The Operational Test Agency must assure the need for this access is specified in the appropriate contract vehicle, memorandum of understanding, or other document.

DOT&E is committed to support integrated testing. However, regardless of whether an acquisition program has a fully integrated test program, DOT&E analysts will consider data from contractor testing and developmental testing in the performance of o their duties. They must be granted the same access to these data and records as for operational test data.

f}-/J'l. ~ J. Michael Gilmore Director cc:

Commander, U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command Commander, Operational Test and Evaluation Force Commander, Air Force Operational Test & Evaluation Center Director, Marine Corps Operational Test and Evaluation Activity Commander, Joint Interoperability Test Command Deputy Under Secretary of the Army, Test & Evaluation Command Deputy, Department of Navy Test & Evaluation Executive Director, Test & Evaluation, Headquarters, U.S. Air Force Director, Developmental Test & Evaluation