Commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) solutions offer several advantages for global security applications: lower product costs, shorter time to market, and access to the latest technologies. However, it’s crucial not to overlook life cycle costs when making decisions about COTS adoption.

Budget constraints have recently shifted focus toward maintaining existing platforms rather than funding high-tech development projects. Yet, advanced capabilities remain essential to leverage new technologies and enhance connectivity. Modern camera technology exemplifies this need—upgrades are necessary for higher quality surveillance video. Sophisticated vision systems play a vital role in increasing personnel safety and protecting innocent individuals.

The growing use of unmanned vehicles also necessitates extending detection distances, creating the need to improve legacy systems at low costs.

The Challenge of Obsolescence Management

A major drawback of COTS products is obsolescence control. Commercial suppliers may discontinue products unexpectedly due to industry developments or competitive shifts. Long-term supply chain stability and maintenance availability are critical for global security customers—equally important as the product itself.

Defense Microelectronics Activity (DMEA) estimates that resolving a single obsolescence incident can cost up to $2.4 million and take 64 weeks, highlighting the significant financial impact of poor obsolescence management.

Strategies for Effective Obsolescence Management

The optimal approach involves partnering with specialized COTS suppliers who understand global security requirements and guarantee long-term supply. This requires maintaining product configurations while freezing specifications as needed.

Managing component obsolescence effectively requires careful planning:

  1. Large Safety Stock: Purchasing significant quantities of critical components prevents immediate disruptions.
  2. End-of-Life (EOL) Planning: Providing ample notice before discontinuing production allows customers to transition smoothly.
  3. Close Customer Collaboration: Working closely with clients ensures alignment with their long-term needs.

Real-World Example

A government program required camera consistency for a specific identification system over many years. When an insignificant component became obsolete:

  • We purchased large safety stocks of the replacement part
  • Integrated the new component into prototypes for testing
  • Allowed more than one year for verification before transitioning to production

When another component failed several years later, we implemented EOL planning with two years’ notice and continued limited production through our customer’s transition period. This enabled a smooth transition to an improved next-generation camera.

Through disciplined obsolescence management and close collaboration, this product was successfully maintained for over ten years despite the inherent challenges of electronic component lifecycles.

Partnering with suppliers committed to long-term support enables organizations to effectively manage COTS products throughout their required life cycles.

Last Updated: 2025-09-04 19:29:59