When is the Capabilities Development Document (CDD) prepared?

The Capabilities Development Document (CDD) is prepared during the technology development phase at Milestone B. This document is critical as it outlines the specific capabilities needed to address the operational requirements for a new system. At this phase, the project is moving towards a formal commitment to developing a solution based on the validated needs of the warfighter.

The timing of the CDD is significant because it captures the essential requirements that need to be met in order to ensure the successful development and operational effectiveness of the product. By preparing the CDD during this phase, the project can ensure that the development efforts are aligned with the defined capabilities and that any subsequent testing and evaluation can be designed to validate these capabilities effectively.

Other options involve stages of the acquisition process where the CDD is not typically created, such as completion of testing or after project initiation. It is essential at Milestone B to articulate the necessary capabilities before continuing into the development phases, thereby ensuring that the program progresses with a clear understanding of the expected outcomes.