The Government Accountability Office has urged the Defense Department to develop a new framework to manage its process of buying satellite communication services from industry.

DoD’s fragmented satcom acquisition approach limits the department’s ability to share services, bundle purchases and simplify the procurement system, GAO said Friday.

The agency says some DoD components acquire commercial satcom without an agent, even though the department found its sub-organizations can save as much as 16 percent when they procure the service with the help of the Defense Information Systems Agency.

GAO noted the department seeks to identify short- and long-term strategies to address satellite bandwidth contracting issues through a pathfinder initiative.

Congress’ investigative arm also recommended that DoD analyze satcom spending at the department and enforce a policy that would allow DISA to acquire commercial satcom for the department.