The tool is designed to integrate with other tools from the Rational portfolio so systems engineers can also incorporate requirements management, change management and systems-testing capabilities to ensure that new systems will comply with regulations, he added.

IBM also announced a slew of new partnerships with vendors that are creating Eclipse-based software optimized for Rational software. For example, Flashline Inc. is extending its software-asset portfolio management tools to work with Rational Systems Developer to provide registration and governance for the architecture described under DODAF. Other partners that announced support include Wind River Systems Inc., Embedded Plus Engineering LLC, Pathfinder Solutions LLC, Coverity Inc., Galorath Inc., PTC Software Ltd. and LogicLibrary Inc.

The Rational Systems Developer is available now for US$2,500.