DoD Participation in the Space Transportation System. Status and Issues.

Abstract

The Space Transportation System has been delayed 3-1/2 years and the cost of Defense participation in the program has increased $1.6 billion--from about $1.2 billion in fiscal year 1978 to about $2.8 billion in fiscal year 1982. To date, the delays have not resulted in any known operational degradation in Defense space capabilities . Continuing uncertainties, however, may further delay Defense's use of the full capabilities offered by the System, increase costs, or degrade future defense operational capabilities in space. The Secretary of Defense and the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration should inform the Congress of the options being considered for maintaining an assured launch capability for defense and civil missions and the key assumptions, costs, and risks associated with each option. The Secretary of Defense should also provide the Congress information on the total cost of Defense participation in the Space Transportation System program.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 28, 1981
Accession Number
ADA096236

Entities

Organizations

  • United States Government Accountability Office

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Acquisition
  • Air Force
  • Air Force Facilities
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Contracts
  • Cost Estimates
  • Department Of Defense
  • Engineering
  • Launch Vehicles
  • Physical Security
  • Procurement
  • Rocket Engines
  • Secure Communications
  • Security
  • Space Shuttles
  • Space Transportation
  • United States

Readers

  • Defense Acquisition Program Management
  • Government and Public Administration Law.
  • Missile Defense Systems.

Technology Areas

  • Space