Air Force F-22 Embedded Computers

GAO reviewed the Air Force's F-22 aircraft program, focusing on the: (1) Air Force's strategy for developing embedded computers and software for F-22 aircraft; and (2) risks that could adversely affect the program. GAO noted that: (1) although the Air Force has designed its software strategy to preclude the problems of past software development efforts, it has not rigorously implemented that strategy; (2) the Air Force has initiated actions intended to strengthen its software development program, including early assessments of contractor's software capabilities, use of common software language and development tools, and preparation of comprehensive software development plans that call for quality assurance and risk management programs; and (3) continued management attention will be critical to avoiding technical problems that could surface during subsequent stages of the program.