An OTA is an acquisition method authorized under Title 10 U.S.C. §4021– (formerly 2371). Congress authorized its use to accelerate the prototyping and deployment of technologies that address national security needs. OTAs also provide a great deal of flexibility compared to more traditional government contracts for both the Government and industry user to enable rapid acquisition of innovative technologies. For more information on OTAs, please click here.
Think of an OTA as a quicker, more commercially-friendly way of competing for prototype funding from the federal government. What makes OTAs different is their focus on nontraditional contractors, meaning companies with little or no experience working with the Department of Defense.