How Can Research and Development Leadtime be Reduced
Abstract
Recognizing that the country that can rapidly convert advanced technology into superior weapon systems has a marked advantage, we have continuously increased funding of Research, Development, and Acquisition programs over the last three decades. During this period the leadtime for the development of new equipment has tripled. During the 1960's the stated leadtime objective of the Army was four years or less from initiation of development effort to type classification of the system as standard. This goal was never reached within the Army, instead the acquisition cycle leadtime has grown to ten to fifteen years. As a result of these long leadtimes many of our weapon systems cost too much and have obsolete technology by the time they are fielded. In addition to the premise that any reduction in leadtime means cost savings and a more qualitative combat force for the Army, why is it essential now that we minimize leadtime? The prominent reason is that the military budget will no doubt be significantly reduced due to the changing political environment of the world. Preparing and executing a modernization plan that supports our national security strategy for the present and the future will become complicated by the need for fiscal restraint. (kr)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 11, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA224063
Entities
People
- Andrew C. Follmer
Organizations
- United States Army War College