Global Positioning System: Production Should Be Limited Until Receiver Reliability Problems Are Resolved
NSIAD-91-74
Published: Mar 20, 1991. Publicly Released: Mar 20, 1991.
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Highlights
Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the operational testing and acquisition plans for the NAVSTAR Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite receiver program.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Defense | The Secretary of Defense should limit procurement of GPS to 237 receiver sets until operational testing has demonstrated that GPS receiver sets have met their reliability objectives. The 237 sets is the minimum quantity the government can order under the current contract and is sufficient to maintain a production base. |
DOD did not agree with the recommendation; however, based on the draft report and the related budget report for FY 1991, NSIAD-90-300BR, and briefings to committee staff, the House and Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on Defense reduced the DOD budget by $117.5 million.
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Topics
Aerospace contractsAir traffic control systemsCommunication satellitesDefense cost controlDefense procurementMilitary satellitesNavigation aidsOperational testingProcurement planningQuality controlGlobal positioning system