3rd Annual MOSA for Defense and Warfare Summit

Defense Strategies Institute’s 2nd Annual MOSA for Defense Summit will provide a forum for members of the DoD, Military Services, Industry, Academia, and other key stakeholders to discuss the warfighting imperative of implementing a modular open systems approach (MOSA) in the design, development, delivery, acquisition, and sustainment of modern defense systems. 

96.1 billion dollars or 31% of the DoD’s total investment funding, was dedicated to major defense acquisition programs (MDAPs) in FY 2025. These programs under US law: Title 10 U.S.C. 2446a.(b), Sec 805 states all major defense acquisition programs (MDAP) are to be designed and developed using a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA). This approach is an attempt to counter rapidly modernizing adversaries and is DoD’s plan to modernize its acquisition and development processes, prioritizing adaptability, accelerating innovation, and lowering cost. A cornerstone of this transformation is the implementation of MOSA across all defense systems. MOSA is an integrated business and technical strategy that uses open standards and modular design to achieve competitive and affordable acquisition and sustainment of defense systems throughout their lifecycle MOSA enhances flexibility, interoperability, and efficiency, ensuring the U.S. maintains a technological edge.

This year’s MOSA for Defense Summit brings together leaders from across the DoD, industry, and academia at the forefront of MOSA implementation. Attendees will gain insights into how these organizations are implementing this critical strategy and the resulting benefits.

The summit will explore how MOSA is driving enhanced competition, innovation, interoperability, and cost-effective system design and delivery through open system development. By enabling easier and more cost-effective addition, removal, and replacement of components and subsystems, MOSA enhances program agility and reduces costs. This year’s event will delve into MOSA’s impact on key areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Air Dominance, Space and Missile Defense, and Ground Combat Systems. Attendees will also hear the role of Intellectual property laws play in MOSA and hear from the perspective of a Tri service panel. Connect with senior leaders and join the critical discussion around implementing open systems across the DoD.