The AoA assesses potential materiel solutions to satisfy the capability need documented in the approved Initial Capabilities Document (ICD). It focuses on identification and analysis of alternatives, measures of effectiveness, cost, schedule, concepts of operations, and overall risk, including the sensitivity of each alternative to possible changes in key assumptions or variables. The AoA also assesses critical technology elements (CTEs) associated with each proposed materiel solution, including technology maturity, integration risk, manufacturing feasibility, and, where necessary, technology maturation and demonstration needs. The AoA is normally conducted during the Materiel Solution Analysis phase of the Defense Acquisition Management System, is a key input to the Capability Development Document (CDD), and supports the materiel solution decision at Milestone A. (DoDI 5000.02 and JCIDS Manual)
