Inside the U.S. Air Force’s $46B EWAAC acquisition vehicle

This effort reflects a broader shift in how the Department of the Air Force acquires and fields critical capabilities. At its core, EWAAC is designed to accelerate the delivery of next-generation armament systems in support of the Air Force Program Executive Officer (AFPEO) for Weapons, while reinforcing key elements of the Digital Trinity:

•  Digital Engineering
•  Agile Software Development
•  Open Systems Architecture

By leveraging Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 16.5, EWAAC provides maximum flexibility to rapidly compete, award, and execute task orders across a broad spectrum of needs — from prototyping and development to full-rate production and sustainment.

Notably, EWAAC does not carry predetermined funding. Instead, it is structured to draw from interagency collaborations, AFPEO portfolio allocations, and program-specific funds, enabling a dynamic, mission-driven approach to acquisition.

For defense industry partners, EWAAC presents a strategic opportunity:

•  Faster contracting timelines
•  Increased visibility across the Air Force weapons portfolio
•  The ability to contribute innovative solutions aligned with long-term capability goals

As the Department of the Air Force seeks to outpace adversaries through speed, adaptability, and digital advantage, EWAAC stands as a flagship model for agile acquisition — and a clear signal that the future of defense contracting is here.

Source: AUKUS Forum.