What is the objective of a Capability Development Document (CDD)?

The objective of a Capability Development Document (CDD) is to specify the required capabilities of a system. This document plays a crucial role in the defense acquisition process, as it identifies and articulates the operational needs that a particular system or program must fulfill. The CDD outlines the desired attributes, performance metrics, and operational environments the capability is expected to support, ensuring that the resulting system aligns with military objectives and strategies.

By establishing a clear set of required capabilities, the CDD serves as a foundational element that guides the development, evaluation, and eventual procurement of defense systems. It facilitates communication among stakeholders, including program managers, engineers, and end-users, and helps in ensuring that the system developed meets the intended operational goals.

The other options relate to different aspects of program management, but they do not capture the primary purpose of the CDD. While exit strategies and long-term procurement plans are important considerations, they are not the focus of the CDD. Additionally, risk management strategies are essential for managing challenges during program development but do not pertain directly to the specification of system capabilities as defined by the CDD.