4.5.2.  Structures and process

The MoD has created a series of internal structures / organisations to support delivery of the objectives set out in Section 4.5.1. These are set out in Figure 4-2.

Figure 4-2: Tri-partite structure of equipment procurement planning in the MoD

Defence policy (incorporating the Defence Planning Assumptions, the Defence Industrial Strategy and guidance from the Defence Strategy & Plans Group) set the framework and required effects against which the MoD Capability Sponsor is tasked to deliver a set of capabilities, including new equipment and supported existing equipment.

In the process of determining equipment needs, the MoD Capability Sponsor will enter a dialogue with DE&S and industry in order to determine the appropriate solution to deliver the military effect, specified as a set of "Key User Requirements", developed under guidance from the Front Line Commands.

The actual equipment required to deliver the capability is specified by the MoD Capability Sponsor (under guidance from DE&S) and this organisation acts as a proxy internal customer for the eventual users of the equipment, the Front Line Commands ("the User").

The required equipment and associated development activity is then procured from industry by DE&S, using commercial and project management skills to secure capability up to the required level whilst delivering the best possible value for money.

As the equipment enters service, the nature of the role which DE&S provides changes towards provision of support to the equipment. The activities undertaken can range from letting of a "prime" type support contract and subsequent monitoring to procurement of spares and repair services from a range of MoD and industry suppliers to ensure maintenance / upgrade of the capability.

A fuller description of the processes and parties involved in planning and delivery of capability is included at Appendix B.