Model-Based Systems Engineering: Lessons Learned from the Joint Tactical Radio System

Abstract

The Joint Tactical Radio System was the first major program that sought to develop a new family of radio systems using a software-based architecture. A new software-oriented architecture, the Software Communications Architecture was developed as a common, interoperable foundation for this new family of tactical radios. The fundamental objective was to enable radio systems to support multiple waveforms, allow for software-only upgrades of operational capabilities and ultimately reduce the tail-end logistics, maintenance and upgrade costs. However, within the first few years the program experienced difficulties and setbacks resulting in cost and schedule overruns. Several program reviews and analyses were performed to assess the reasons for the problems encountered. Although multiple causes were cited for the failures, this paper puts forth the assertion that a key aspect of the engineering process, systems engineering, was not planned into the program and a fundamental cause for many of the issues encountered.