What is a key activity in the Engineering and Manufacturing Development phase?

In the Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) phase, a key activity involves defining System of System functionality. This phase focuses on the detailed design and development of the system, which includes establishing how different components of the system will work together as part of a larger system. By defining the functionality, the program can ensure that all individual parts align with the overarching objectives and operational requirements. This is crucial for integrating various technologies and ensuring that the system meets its intended performance standards.

The emphasis on defining System of System functionality during the EMD phase helps guide subsequent testing, production, and deployment efforts, ensuring that the final product is effective and meets user needs. While assessing threats, updating the Acquisition Program Baseline, and conducting interoperability testing are certainly important activities in the lifecycle of a system, they are not as central as clearly defining the functionalities of the system itself during the critical design and engineering processes of the EMD phase.