Review of Air Force's Next Generation Trainer Aircraft Program Department of Defense
Abstract
The Air Force's original plans effectively eliminated the Navy's current primary trainer aircraft--the T-34C--from consideration as its new primary trainer aircraft. GAO believes this elimination is inconsistent with OMB Circular A-109. This inconsistency has, however, been negated by recent congressional direction for the Air Force to evaluate the T-34C as an alternative. The Air Force could use the T-34V as its primary trainer. It does not, however, perform as well as the current primary trainer or well enough to meet the stated requirements for the new primary trainer. The relative cost effectiveness of various alternatives, including the T-34C is uncertain. One analysis prepared by a consultant for the Air Force showed that the T-34C would be the least costly alternative for the primary phase of the Air Force's undergraduate pilot training program, but would be the most costly alternative if the total program were considered. Uncertainty exists regarding some assumptions and cost data in the analysis. The Air Force is also considering a service life extension of its current primary trainer as an alternative to a new acquisition.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 09, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA096238
Entities
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office