"AIM The aim of SLCM is to optimise defence capabilities taking into account performance@ cost@ schedule@ quality@ operational environments@ integrated logistic support and obsolescence over the life cycle of the system. The NATO Policy for Standardization2 calls for the use of civil standards to the maximum practicable extent. ISO/IEC 15288@ ""Systems Engineering ?C System Life Cycle Processes""3@ is already in use in several Nations and provides a general framework that is neutral to extant individual Nations' Acquisition Processes. Following this guidance@ NATO will use ISO/IEC 15288 as the basis for implementing SLCM. This allows for traditional acquisition as well as for iterative developments and procurement cycles where necessary for the realisation of required capabilities."