Defense Acquisition Programs

The following definitions are quoted directly from the Defense Acquisition University Glossary (13th ed., 2009). If you encounter acquisition-related terminology or acronyms that you don't understand, this is a great resource!

Acquisition
The conceptualization, initiation, design, development, test, contracting, production, deployment, logistics support (LS), modification, and disposal of weapons and other systems, supplies, or services (including construction) to satisfy DOD needs, intended for use in, or in support of, military missions.

Acquisition Program
A directed, funded effort that provides a new, improved, or continuing materiel, weapon, or information system or service capability in response to an approved need. Acquisition programs are divided into categories that are established to facilitate decentralized decision making, execution, and compliance with statutory requirements. (DODD 5000.01)

• ASBCA
  (Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals)

• CBCA
  (Civilian Board of Contract Appeals)

• DFARS
  (Department of Defense FAR Supplement)

• FAR
  (Federal Acquisition Regulation)

• Fed. Cl.
  (United States Court of Federal Claims)

Sources: 

Contracting Out Government Functions and Services: Emerging Lessons from Post-Conflict and Fragile Situations

Defense Acquisition University (DAU) Glossary of Defense Acquisition Acronymns and Terms 

Guide to Federal Terms and Acronymns

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