### Question
How is the "independent cost estimate" defined?


### Answer
The term **independent cost estimate** is defined in *50 U.S.C. § 415a* as follows -

> a pragmatic and neutral analysis, assessment, and quantification of all costs and risks associated with the acquisition of a major system, which shall be based on programmatic and technical specifications provided by the office within the element of the intelligence community with primary responsibility for the development, procurement, or operation of the major system

#### Citation:
  - *50 U.S.C. § 415a*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 15-NATIONAL SECURITY > SUBCHAPTER III-ACCOUNTABILITY FOR INTELLIGENCE ACTIVITIES**

