9.5.8. System Readiness for Operational Test and Evaluation (OT&E)
9.5.8.1. Operational Test Readiness Process
DoD Components should develop and institutionalize processes to determine a system's performance and readiness for operational assessments and tests. These processes should focus on ensuring systems are in a realistic configuration and have demonstrated technical and production maturity under the expected operating conditions. Successful execution of these processes should enable the gathering of relevant and appropriate data, during integrated testing, to satisfy early operational test objectives prior to dedicated, operational testing.
9.5.8.2. System Readiness for IOT&E
For programs on the OSD T&E Oversight List for OT&E, the DoD CAE is required to evaluate and determine materiel system readiness for IOT&E. The intent of this requirement is to ensure systems do not enter IOT&E before they are sufficiently mature. Scarce resources are wasted when an IOT&E is halted or terminated early because of technical problems with the System Under Test (SUT); problems that should have been resolved prior to the start of IOT&E.
Prior to CAE determination of readiness for IOT&E, programs must have an independent AOTR for all ACAT I and IA programs, as well as any special interest programs designated by the DASD(DT&E). The AOTR will focus on the technical and materiel readiness of the program to proceed into IOT&E. Assessment results are based on capabilities demonstrated in DT&E and earlier OAs. As outlined in DoDI 5000.02, Enclosure 6, paragraphs 4.b and 4.c, a DT&E report of results and the progress assessment shall be provided to the DASD(DT&E) and the DOT&E prior to the AOTR. That report can be a written document or a briefing to the DASD(DT&E) and DOT&E representatives, and should include the following: an analysis of the system's progress in achieving CTPs, satisfaction of approved IOT&E entrance criteria, a technical risk assessment, level of software maturity and status of software trouble reports, and predicted IOT&E results, including the impacts of any shortcomings on the system's expected performance during IOT&E. Provide the report at least 20 days prior to the CAE's determination of system readiness. This will allow OSD time to formulate and provide its recommendation to the CAE. All appropriate developmental and operational T&E organizations should be invited to the IOT&E readiness review.
The goal of the AOTR is to assess the risk associated with the system's ability to meet operational suitability and effectiveness goals, identify system and subsystem maturity levels, assess programmatic and technical risk, and provide risk mitigation recommendations. The results of the AOTR will be provided to the USD(AT&L), DOT&E, and CAE. As outlined in DoD Instruction 5000.02, Enclosure 6, paragraphs 4.b and 4.c, the CAE shall consider the results of the AOTR prior to making a determination of materiel readiness for IOT&E.
DAG Tutorial 
