Survey of the Readiness of Minuteman Missiles

In April 1980, GAO began a survey of the readiness of Minuteman strategic missiles. The principle objectives were to examine: (1) the adequacy of readiness reporting procedures; (2) the crews' status and training; (3) impacts of planned modifications and modernization programs on the missiles' capabilities; and (4) the efficiency of logistics support systems. However, because of severe constraints on GAO audit resources, and because limited tests indicated that reported high levels of readiness appeared accurate, the audit was suspended. During the survey, though, several situations were found to warrant management attention.