- Identify user needs.

- Develop the product requirements according to these needs.

- Assess potential material solution.

- Identify and reduce technology risks through studies, experiments and engineering models.

- Establish a business case including analysis of alternatives, estimate Life Cycle Cost for the launch of the Development Phase.

- Operational environment and mission profiles support resources, as design, development, funding, and tests must be all described.

- Develop a product according to the requirements and that can be produced, tested, evaluated, operated, supported and retired.

- Develop an affordable and executable manufacturing process.

- Ensure operational supportability with particular attention to minimizing the logistics footprint.

- The prime design enforces supportability, whose requirements are included within the design.

- Produce or manufacture the product.

- Test the Product.

- Assess product acceptance, to confirm that the product satisfies the requirements.

- Supportability requirements are set.

- Initial training for operating and maintaining the product is defined.

- Technical data and documentation are available.

- Initial Provisioning List - initial packages of spares and support equipment are available.

- Maintenance services including mission and test equipment are available.

- Infrastructure and facilities are operational.

- Operate the product.

- Deliver the required services with continued operational and cost-effectiveness.

- Continuously assess performance and decide on modifications and upgrades.

- Provide support that enables continued operation and sustainable service.

- Demilitarize (if applicable).

- Hardware components are phased out of the inventory stock.

- Items are disposed of with appropriate resources or recycled as appropriate.

- Support services and facilities are decommissioned with appropriate resources.