Strategic Weapons: Long-Term Costs are not Reported to the Congress
Abstract
In October 1981 the President announced a program to modernize U.S. strategic airborne systems, land-based missiles, and submarine-launched missiles. The modernization program now encompasses 12 Air Force and Navy systems, including B-1B and B-2 bombers, Air Launched and Advanced Cruise Missiles, Trident II submarines and missiles, and Peacekeeper and Small intercontinental ballistic missiles. A system's total cost to the government consists of the cost to acquire, operate, and support the system over its entire life. Acquisition costs include development, production, and directly related military construction. Operation and support costs include personnel, fuel, spare parts replenishment, direct depot maintenance, and contractor support. The Department of Defense (DOD) submits major weapon system acquisition cost estimates to the Congress in annually updated Selected Acquisition Reports. Reports first prepared after January 1985 must include operation and support cost estimates.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- AD1150442
Entities
People
- Frank C. Conahan
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office