As noted, the ESP is programmed by Front Line Command in years 1 - 4 and by the Capability Sponsor thereafter, out to year 10. One of the roles for Programme Boards is to take a more holistic view of support costs associated with capability areas within their remits over the life of existing, replacement and future planned equipment. The emphasis on programming in the near term is to meet operational needs in terms of equipment availability, generally based on historical spend levels required to achieve a given set of outputs. This is overlaid with specific change initiatives for elements of the spend, such as new contracting for availability contracts, which will have received scrutiny to ensure they are value-enhancing as projects.
In the 4 - 10 year planning horizon, the ESP receives only moderate levels of attention from Capability Sponsor. An increasing focus on TLCM and Programme management could change this over time, but it appears that most of the detail of the plan and its drivers are not considered. Assumptions around changes from new equipment or capabilities are factored in, although these are generally viewed as indicative only, unless the support solutions are fully mature.