Navy Acquisition: SUBACS Problems May Adversely Affect Navy Attack Submarine Programs
NSIAD-86-12
Published: Nov 04, 1985. Publicly Released: Nov 04, 1985.
Skip to Highlights
Highlights
GAO reviewed the Navy's three-phase Submarine Advanced Combat System (SUBACS) program which was designed to provide nuclear attack submarines with new and upgraded sonar, combat control systems, and advanced data processing capabilities. The review was conducted to determine: (1) the cost, schedule, and performance risks associated with implementing the SUBACS program; and (2) its impact on attack submarine programs.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Defense | The Secretary of Defense should, through the DSARC program review process, evaluate the Navy's justification for adopting Replan III from among alternative acquisition strategies to ensure that the best course of action is taken for providing SSN-668 class submarines with the needed near- and long-term combat system performance while minimizing the adverse effects on SUBACS and submarine construction costs, schedules, and contracts. |
Closed – Implemented
In March 1986, a DSARC program review was held and a Secretary of Defense memo was issued in May 1986.
|
| Department of Defense | The Secretary of Defense should, through the DSARC program review process, condition his approval of the program on the Navy's establishment of a plan for management control, including specific criteria, reporting requirements, and periodic reviews of the program adopted to assess the progress in reaching SUBACS program objectives. |
Closed – Implemented
A DSARC program review was held in March 1986.
|
| Department of Defense | The Secretary of Defense should, through the DSARC program review process, before releasing fiscal year (FY) 1986 program funds, require the Navy to provide key program documentation and budget quality cost estimates, and base the future release of funds on demonstrated program progress. |
Closed – Not Implemented
FY 1986 funds were released prior to the March 1986 DSARC program review.
|
Full Report
Office of Public Affairs
Topics
Computer services contractsContract administrationCost overrunsDefense contingency planningMarine engineeringMilitary cost controlNational defense operationsNaval procurementNuclear armed submarinesProgram management