Open Architecture Management

The Open Architecture Management program, overseen by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, is dedicated to developing and managing open standards to enhance interoperability and reduce costs related to weapon systems. Its primary objectives include managing Open Mission Systems (OMS) and Universal Command and Control Interface (UCI) Standards. These standards are designed to facilitate compatibility across various Department of Defense programs, thereby reducing acquisition and life-cycle costs while mitigating risks associated with development, sustainment, technology refresh, and capability upgrades.

A key component of the program is the Government Avionics Reference Architecture (GARA), which offers a framework for legacy platforms to adopt an open architecture approach. This initiative aims to break "vendor-lock," increase competition, lower upgrade costs, and ensure that legacy platforms can be updated in response to evolving threats. The Open Architecture Management Office (OAMO) collaborates with entities such as the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and the 76th Software Engineering Group (76 SWEG) to advance these standards through research and development efforts.

The program also includes the Open Architecture Collaborative Working Group (OACWG), which consists of defense contractors working together to produce OMS/UCI standards. Within this group, the Normalization Subgroup (NS) focuses on evolving UCI messages and behaviors. The OAMO supports these activities by providing resources for science and technology initiatives, integration testing, change package development, and training.

Additionally, the OAMO is involved in enhancing open standards through initiatives like Sensor Open Systems Architecture (SOSA). The program seeks to broaden the applicability of these standards by integrating emerging technologies and adjusting for specific program needs. By coordinating with industry partners and government agencies, the OAMO ensures that open standards remain relevant and applicable across various defense programs.