Readiness Levels

Technology readiness levels (TRLs)

Level 1: Basic Principles Observed and Reported
Level 2: Potential Application Validated
Level 3: Proof-of-Concept Demonstrated, Analytically and/or Experimentally
Level 4: Component and/or Breadboard Laboratory Validated
Level 5: Component and/or Breadboard Validated in Simulated or Realspace Environment
Level 6: System Adequacy Validated in Simulated Environment
Level 7: System Adequacy Validated in Space

Material solutions analysis
- Material development decision review
  - 1. Basic manufacturing implications identified
  - 1. Manufacturing concepts identified
  - 1. Manufacturing proof of concept developed
- Milestone A decision
  - 1. Capability to produce the technology in a laboratory environment
Technology maturation and risk reduction (formerly "technology development")
- Milestone B decision
  - 1. Capability to produce prototype components in a production relevant environment
  - 1. Capability to produce a prototype system or subsystem in a production relevant environment
Engineering and manufacturing development
- post-CDR (Critical design review) Assessment
  - 1. Capability to produce systems, subsystems or components in a production representative environment
- Milestone C decision
  - 1. Pilot line capability demonstrated. Ready to begin low rate production
Production and Deployment
- Full rate production decision
  - 1. Low rate production demonstrated. Capability in place to begin Full Rate Production
Operations and Support
- 1. Full rate production demonstrated and lean production practices in place