Weapon Systems Annual Assessment 2025

The Department of Defense (DOD) plans to invest nearly $2.4 trillion to develop and acquire its costliest weapon programs. But it continues to struggle with delivering timely and effective solutions to the warfighter. This report assesses the characteristics and performance of 106 of DOD's costliest weapon programs. GAO is recommending that DOD leadership take steps to ensure that future major weapon acquisition programs include leading practices for product development during the earliest stages of the programs.