Report on expansion of pathways for civilian test pilots to support military testing activities

(a) In general Not later than January 1, 2027, the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretaries of the military departments, shall submit to the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a report on the feasibility and advisability of expanding the pathways available under Defense Contract Management Agency Instruction 8210–1D for graduates of accredited civilian test pilot schools in the United States to serve as test pilots and flight test engineers in support of military testing activities. (b) Elements The report required under subsection (a) shall include— (1) an assessment of the current capacity of military and approved civilian test pilots to support military test activities, set forth separately by Armed Force; (2) an assessment of the feasibility and advisability of modifying Defense Contract Management Agency Instruction 8210–1D to authorize all graduates of accredited civilian test pilot schools in the United States to support military test activities, including any potential benefits or risks associated with such a modification; and (3) identification of an appropriate certification process for civilian test pilot schools in the United States to ensure that— (A) graduates of such schools fully meet the education and training requirements stipulated in Defense Contract Management Agency Instruction 8210–1D; and (B) the curriculum of such schools aligns with the curriculum of military test pilot schools.