Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA)

The US Department of Defense (DoD) requires a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) for major acquisition programs — including for vertical flight aircraft. According to the Defense Standardization Program (DSP): 

A Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) can be defined as a technical and business strategy for designing an affordable and adaptable system. A MOSA is the DoD preferred method for implementation of open systems, and it is required by United States law. Title 10 U.S.C. 4401(b), states all major defense acquisition programs (MDAP) are to be designed and developed using a MOSA... 

The Vertical Flight Society has been active over the past several years to support the government and industry implement MOSA-compliant systems, including those developed under Future Vertical Lift (FVL). 

Events:

  • At the 2024 MOSA Summit in June 2024, VFS organized a session for direct feedback from the top US military rotorcraft manufacturers to the US Army and DoD, Vertical Lift OEM Perspectives on MOSA [LinkedIn post] [summary article]
  • At the 2023 MOSA Summit in September 2023, VFS organized two sessions, Vertical Lift OEM Perspectives on MOSA [post] and [post], as well as exhibiting. [summary article]
  • At the VFS 79th Annual Forum in May 2023, VFS held a session, chaired by US Army Assistant PEO Aviation Matt Sipe on challenges for US Army Aviation. [video]
  • The VFS Redstone Chapter held a 1-day Digital Enterprise Workshop in February 2022. All of the videos and presentations are available to the public. 

VFS articles including MOSA:

Other Resources