Which factor is essential for a program to be labeled as 'sustainable'?

For a program to be labeled as 'sustainable,' it is crucial that it has the capability to maintain support throughout its operational life. Sustainability in the context of defense acquisition refers to ensuring that a program can continue to function effectively over time without interruption or decline in performance. This involves having reliable logistics, maintenance support, and adequate resources to adapt to evolving challenges.

This capability is vital because it ensures that the equipment or system remains operational and effective without requiring constant overhaul or replacement. A sustainable program anticipates changes in technology, user requirements, and environmental conditions while ensuring that it can continue to provide its intended benefits safely and efficiently throughout its lifecycle.

While the other factors may contribute to a program's success, they do not directly define sustainability. Continuous innovation, for example, is important but not a singular requirement for a program to be sustainable. Similarly, a cycling budget that constantly increases may not be viable in practice, and rapid deployment, while valuable, does not ensure ongoing operational support and sustainability over time.