Naval Aviation: Consider All Alternatives Before Proceeding With the F/A-18E/F
NSIAD-93-144
Published: Aug 27, 1993. Publicly Released: Aug 27, 1993.
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Highlights
GAO reviewed the Navy's decision to develop the F/A-18E/F aircraft.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Defense | The Secretary of Defense should direct the Secretary of the Navy to revalidate the need for another strike/fighter aircraft by demonstrating that there is or will be a military threat that it cannot meet with present weapon systems and force structure. In conducting this analysis, the Navy should consider whether: (1) changes can be made in military operations, such as modifications to military tactics or strategy to obviate the need for developing a new weapon system; (2) another military service can meet the threat with existing capabilities; and (3) another type of weapon system can be developed to counter the threat if the development of a new weapon system cannot be avoided. |
Closed – Implemented
DOD cites several initiatives that it believes validate its decision to develop the F/A-18E/F. These actions do not contain the degree of analysis that GAO believes would be necessary. This issue is part of GAO's ongoing look at Navy tactical aviation modernization efforts (707072).
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| Department of the Navy | If the Navy finds that it needs to develop an aircraft, the Navy should conduct a thorough analysis of all reasonable alternative aircraft designs on a comparable basis before proceeding with a development program. |
Closed – Not Implemented
DOD cites its analysis, specifically the COEA done by the Navy, as the reason for not concurring in this recommendation. According to the Center for Naval Analysis, the COEA conducted was not a complete COEA and did not evaluate all systems.
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Weapons systemsAir defense systemsAircraft researchCost effectiveness analysisDefense capabilitiesNaval aircraftNaval procurementResearch and developmentTactical air forcesMilitary forces