What does the acquisition requirements document need to explain?

The acquisition requirements document is a critical piece of documentation that serves to clearly outline the specific needs of a program or system acquisition. One of its primary functions is to identify deficiencies in current capabilities and explain the impact of those deficiencies on mission success or overall operations. By detailing these deficiencies, the document provides decision-makers with the necessary context to understand the urgency and importance of acquiring new or improved equipment to fulfill operational requirements. This justification helps prioritize funding and resource allocation, as it creates a direct link between the identified capability gaps and the need for acquisition action. Understanding the deficiencies and their repercussions is central to driving the acquisition process and ensuring that the intended solutions address real-world needs effectively.