Node A6 · Acronym decoder
ACAT
Acquisition Category
What it actually means
The size class of a defense acquisition program, set mainly by dollar thresholds. ACAT I programs (major defense acquisition programs) get the most oversight, dedicated decision authorities, and statutory reporting; ACAT II and III scale that machinery down. The category determines who can approve milestones and how much documentation the program owes.
Where you'll meet it
Program charters and milestone paperwork; the first question about any DoD program is often its ACAT level.