Systems-theoretic process analysis and safety-guided design of military systems

Abstract

Increasingly complex software enabled systems demand a new hazard analysis and safety-guided design technique in order to meet stringent safety standards and expectations. System Theoretic Process Analysis (STPA) proves to be a powerful tool to identify, describe and help mitigate hazards from the earliest conceptual development through the operations of a system. A future military aircraft example demonstrates STPA's applicability for preliminary hazard analysis, analysis of alternatives, organizational design, developmental test, and into operations. STPA is a hazard analysis framework that helps manage risks and safety responsibilities throughout the entire lifecycle of a system.