Opportunities To Reduce the Cost of Some B-52 Modifications
MASAD-82-30
Published: Apr 09, 1982. Publicly Released: Apr 09, 1982.
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Highlights
GAO reviewed the Air Force's revised plans for structuring the strategic bomber force. The Air Force now plans to buy 100 B-1B aircraft, reduce the number of B-52G aircraft that will be equipped to carry cruise missiles, equip all B-52H aircraft with cruise missiles, and retire all B-52D aircraft by the end of 1986. The B-52G aircraft which are not equipped with cruise missiles will assume the conventional bombing role previously assigned to the B-52D aircraft.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Defense | The Secretary of Defense should direct the Air Force not to procure any additional OAS modification kits or components until: (1) fiscal year 1983 and 1984 requirements for inertial navigation systems and computer processors have been reduced to account for those not needed on 67 B-52G's and those already acquired for B-52D's; and (2) a comprehensive review of the OAS package and related B-52 mission needs has been made and any additional unneeded kits or components have been eliminated. |
Closed – Not Implemented
DOD does not intend action. It contends that: (1) the inertial navigation systems and computer processors are needed for the B-52G's to perform their missions; (2) their elimination would adversely impact on program costs, program risks, and force maintainability; and (3) some OAS equipment from B-52D's might not be available
|
| Department of Defense | The Secretary of Defense should direct the Air Force not to install strakelets on any B-52H aircraft until he is satisfied that this installation is necessary and that no less costly alternative is available. |
Closed – Implemented
When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
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Topics
Air Force procurementAircraft componentsBomber aircraftComputersCost controlMissilesModificationsNavigation aidsMilitary forcesAircraft acquisition programs