The Government Accountability Office assessed and validated Defense Logistics Agency contractors that specialize in reverse engineering techniques. GAO found in a report published Wednesday that 124 companies conducted reverse engineering projects from fiscal year 2015 through 2018.
Additionally, the accountability agency confirmed that 103 of the companies are small businesses. Representatives from DLA and small business firms noted that the approach may open opportunities for potential work.
The government watchdog also found that DLA’s Maritime, Land and Aviation commands established measures to protect the patents of reverse engineering projects. GAO noted that DLA utilizes reverse engineering to lower costs, optimize competition between contractors and manufacture spare parts for vessels, missiles and aircraft systems.