Strategic Missiles: Uncertainties Persist in the Advanced Cruise Missile Program
NSIAD-91-35
Published: Nov 16, 1990. Publicly Released: Nov 16, 1990.
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Highlights
Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the Advanced Cruise Missile (ACM) program.
Recommendations
Matter for Congressional Consideration
| Matter | Status | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| The Air Force has requested advance procurement funds of $107.4 million in FY 1991 to initiate competitive procurement in FY 1992. However, until the number of ACM required is determined and an acquisition strategy validated, the need for advance procurement funds cannot be determined. Therefore, Congress may wish to consider directing that the use of those funds be minimized until the acquisition strategy is validated. |
Closed – Implemented
|
An accomplishment report will be prepared to show that Congress reduced the advanced procurement request from $107 million to $64 million. |
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Defense | The Secretary of Defense should determine the number of ACM needed to support the bomber force in the 1990s, giving consideration to budgetary constraints and Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty agreements. |
Closed – Implemented
An accomplishment report is in process to show the Air Force-reduced requirement.
|
| Department of Defense | The Secretary of Defense should direct the Secretary of the Air Force to review the ACM competitive procurement acquisition strategy and determine whether it is still valid. |
Closed – Implemented
As of March 1991, the acquisition strategy issue had not been resolved. In July 1991, DOD approved an acquisition strategy. GAO has been asked to examine the planned strategy. Benefits from the new strategy are uncertain at this time.
|
| Department of Defense | The Secretary of Defense should direct the Secretary of the Air Force to conduct the eight follow-on test and evaluation flight tests planned for FY 1991 and certify that ACM can meet its full production reliability criteria before production funds beyond FY 1991 are obligated. |
Closed – Not Implemented
GAO plans to determine why the eight planned follow-on test and evaluation flights are not being done as planned. DOD advised Congress that, as a result of the Gulf war and other problems, testing could not be accomplished as planned.
|
| Department of Defense | The Secretary of Defense should direct the Secretary of the Air Force to ensure the revised cost estimate reflects recent program changes. |
Closed – Implemented
A revised cost estimate was prepared.
|
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Topics
Air Force procurementCompetitive procurementContract performanceCost analysisMilitary cost controlMissilesProduct evaluationTestingWeapons systemsChemical decontamination