Which AAF pathway aims to field a prototype within 5 years?

The correct choice is the Middle Tier Acquisition (MTA) pathway, which is designed specifically to expedite the development and fielding of prototypes and capabilities within a timeframe of about five years. This pathway is part of the broader acquisition strategy intended to bridge the gap between traditional acquisition methods and the need for quicker responses to changing threats and technological advancements.

The MTA offers flexibility in funding and processes, allowing program managers to respond more swiftly to urgent operational needs, test prototypes, and then proceed to procure the resultant operational capability if the prototypes prove successful. By focusing on a streamlined acquisition strategy, the MTA pathway fosters innovation and the rapid delivery of critical capabilities to military users.

In contrast, the other options represent different acquisition pathways with varying objectives and timelines. The Acquisition System Pathway is typically associated with more traditional, longer-term procurement processes. The Rapid Acquisition Pathway, while aimed at quick responses, does not have the same structured timeline as the MTA. The Simplified Acquisition Pathway deals with less complex procurements and generally smaller dollar amounts, thus not focusing on prototype development within the same five-year frame.