What is Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA)?

MOSA is a strategy used by the Department of Defense (DoD) to make their systems more competitive and affordable throughout their lifespan. It involves designing systems with open standards and modular structures, allowing components to be easily added, changed, or removed.

This approach uses standardized interfaces and architectures across applications. In practice, MOSA allows the DoD to design systems with separate but well-connected modules that can be sourced from different vendors.

MOSA is the DoD preferred method for implementation of open systems, and it is required by United States law.