Guide
The Defense Software Stack, Explained
The defense software stack is the set of platforms that defense primes and DIB suppliers deploy to operate DFARS-regulated and CMMC-aligned programs. This guide describes what belongs in the stack and how the layers fit together.
Layers of the stack
A typical defense software stack contains:
- ERP for finance, project, supply and contract execution
- PLM for the digital thread and configuration management
- MES for shop-floor execution
- QMS for AS9100 / quality process governance
- Identity, endpoint and SIEM for DFARS / CMMC compliance
- Controlled cloud environments (GCC High or equivalent)
Why the stack matters
The defense industrial base is regulated at the data layer. The stack is the means by which regulated data (CUI, ITAR-controlled technical data) is segregated, controlled and audited across the program lifecycle.