* Focus on Performance: DT&E focuses on evaluating the technical performance of a system under development. This includes assessing whether the prototype meets its design specifications, performance requirements, and technical capabilities.
* Early Stage of Development: Prototypes represent early stages of a system's development. They are used to validate design concepts, test key technologies, and explore potential solutions. DT&E allows for feedback and refinements before large-scale production.
* Iterative Process: DT&E is often an iterative process. Tests are conducted, results are analyzed, and the prototype is then modified and retested. This feedback loop ensures continuous improvement and optimization of the system.
* Not Operational Use: DT&E does not involve operational use of the prototype system. The focus is on technical evaluation in controlled environments, typically within a laboratory or test range.
While DT&E is the primary assessment for prototypes, other types of OT&E assessments might also be used depending on the specific system and its stage of development:
* Limited Operational Test and Evaluation (LOT&E): This assessment could be conducted if the prototype is sufficiently mature to undergo limited real-world testing in operational environments. This would involve simulating some aspects of operational use.
* Live-Fire Testing: If the prototype system involves weapons or other live-fire capabilities, specific live-fire tests might be conducted as part of DT&E to evaluate safety, accuracy, and effectiveness.
It's important to note that the type of OT&E assessment conducted on a prototype will depend on various factors, including:
* Maturity of the prototype: How far along in development is the prototype?
* System complexity: How complex is the system and its intended capabilities?
* Available resources: What resources are available for testing and evaluation?
* Program timeline and budget: What are the program's time and budget constraints?
Ultimately, the type of OT&E assessment used will be determined by the specific needs and goals of the program.