DoD Acquisition Reforms: Contrasting Compliance and Speed for Contractors
The Department of Defense is implementing two concurrent acquisition reforms: the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and the Warfighting Acquisition System (WAS). These reforms create a dichotomy, with CMMC increasing compliance obligations while WAS seeks to streamline procurement processes for faster deployment.
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The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification program mandates compliance that adds documentation and infrastructure requirements to defense contracts. In contrast, the Warfighting Acquisition System, initiated in November 2025, aims to enhance procurement speed by reducing documentation and focusing on competitive prototyping.
The WAS framework enables Portfolio Acquisition Executives to waive non-statutory standards and demands a 180-day timeline for critical systems to ensure at least two qualified sources. The first 31 DFARS class deviations of WAS became effective on February 1, 2026.
Contractors face shorter proposal timelines and heightened accountability for performance. Firms without established records may struggle under compressed timelines, while incumbents benefit from reduced transition risks.
HX5’s Margarita Howard emphasizes the importance of understanding client missions to navigate these changes effectively, noting that regulatory burdens can create market consolidation and affect competition. Investments in CMMC compliance are crucial as many contractors may not meet the new requirements, potentially leading to a narrower field for federal contracts.
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