SWIFT Is Here: What DoD’s New Software Acquisition Model Means for Vendors – And How to Win

Author: Harvey Morrison

At Marion Square, we closely monitor emerging acquisition pathways that signal a change in how the U.S. Government buys and deploys technology. One of the most important developments in recent years arrives this week: the Department of Defense's formal launch of SWIFT the Software-Initiated Fast Track.

Backed by the Office of the DoD CIO and spearheaded by Katie Arrington, SWIFT is designed to radically accelerate the acquisition and deployment of commercial software across the Department. More than a program, SWIFT represents a shift in philosophy – one that software companies must understand and adapt to if they want to stay competitive in defense.

What Is SWIFT?

The Software-Initiated Fast Track is a new acquisition model that enables continuous Authority to Operate (ATO) for commercial software solutions. SWIFT aims to streamline the bureaucratic processes that have historically delayed the onboarding of innovative tools, often for years.

Key features include:

• Reciprocal ATOs across DoD components (no more reinventing the wheel for each service).

• Continuous Monitoring in place of one-time security approvals.

• A focus on speed, security, and mission alignment reducing deployment cycles from months or years to potentially days or weeks.

As Arrington noted, the goal is clear: “get capabilities in the hands of the warfighter faster.” For vendors, this opens doors but also raises the bar.

Why This Matters for Software Companies:

If you're a software vendor eyeing the DoD, SWIFT changes the rules of the game:

1. Speed to Value Becomes a Differentiator
   The traditional model rewarded vendors who could navigate complex procurement cycles. Under SWIFT, the emphasis shifts to operational readiness and integration velocity.

2. Security by Design Is Non-Negotiable
   With the continuous ATO model, software companies will need to prove robust cyber hygiene, active threat monitoring, and alignment with DoD’s Zero Trust and NIST frameworks out of the box.

3. Modular and Agile Solutions Will Win
   Solutions that can scale rapidly, integrate flexibly, and deliver mission outcomes quickly will be prioritized. This puts pressure on vendors to rethink architecture, delivery models, and DevSecOps maturity.

4. FedRAMP and Beyond
   While FedRAMP Moderate or High may be a baseline, SWIFT requires real-time security assurance, not just static compliance. Companies need a clear posture around vulnerability response, data protection, and system transparency.

How Marion Square Helps You Navigate SWIFT:

At Marion Square, we work with software firms across cybersecurity, AI, analytics, and enterprise platforms to help them align with the next generation of federal acquisition.

Here’s how we support our clients:

• Readiness Assessments tailored to SWIFT-specific demands, including ATO strategy, cyber posture, and architecture alignment.

• Go-to-Market Planning to position your offering as a mission-critical solution in the eyes of DoD buyers.

• Partnership & Channel Strategy, helping you integrate with existing primes or platforms already authorized under SWIFT or with reciprocal ATO pathways.

• Proposal Support and Positioning for pilot programs, SBIR opportunities, or direct awards that may emerge through the SWIFT pathway.

Final Take

SWIFT is not just another pilot. It is a signal of cultural change in the way the Pentagon views commercial software: agile, iterative, mission-focused, and secure by design. The vendors who adapt early will have a first-mover advantage. Those who ignore the implications of SWIFT may find themselves locked out of future DoD opportunities.

If your company is serious about growing in the federal market especially defense now is the time to act. Contact Marion Square to assess your SWIFT-readiness and develop a strategy that puts you ahead of the curve.