Embedded Computers: Navy's Approach to Developing Patrol Aircraft Avionics System Too Risky
IMTEC-90-79
Published: Sep 28, 1990. Publicly Released: Oct 04, 1990.
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Highlights
Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO determined whether the: (1) Navy's Update IV Program provided for adequate pre-procurement testing of a new avionics computer system for P-3 and P-7 aircraft; and (2) Navy adequately oversaw the development of the embedded system.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of the Navy | The Secretary of the Navy should direct the Commander, Naval Air Systems Command, to: (1) halt further software development (i.e., coding) until system specifications are approved; (2) thoroughly justify the need for initial-rate production to exceed the four systems originally planned; (3) conduct initial operational testing using actual system components or accurate simulations of them; and (4) conduct full operational testing before making a full-rate production decision. |
The fiscal year (FY) 1991 appropriations bill reduced procurement funding for the P-3 aircraft by $68 million, in part due to the GAO report and subsequent congressional action. An accomplishment report will be prepared once FY 1992 congressional budget actions are complete. The expected completion date is November 1991.
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| Department of the Navy | In light of the possibility that the previous recommendation may preclude the Navy from exercising existing, fixed-price contract options, the Secretary of the Navy should direct the Commander, Naval Air Systems Command, to thoroughly analyze the cost impact of contract renegotiation and, based on this analysis, decide whether the entire Update IV Program is financially viable. |
As of April 1, 1992, the fate of the Update IV Program was still being debated; however, the recommendation has been overtaken by events since Congress has completed its FY 1992 budget deliberations.
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Topics
Antisubmarine warfareSoftwareEmbedded computer systemsFixed price contractsMilitary cost controlMilitary systems analysisNaval aircraftNaval procurementProduct evaluationTesting