ICBM Modernization: Small ICBM Weapon System Status and Current Issues

Abstract

U.S. strategic nuclear forces, consisting of submarine-launched ballistic missiles, manned bombers, and land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBM), provide nuclear deterrence. To counter Soviet nuclear advances, a long-standing national defense goal has been ICBM modernization. One such modernization initiative is the Small ICBM program. At the request of the Chairman of the House Committee on Armed Services, GAO reviewed the status of the Small ICBM program. GAO's effort included a review of the Department of Defense's (DOD) reasons for continuing development without a present commitment of procurement and construction funds needed to deploy the system. GAO also reviewed the adequacy of the acquisition cost estimate, the outlook for meeting future schedule milestones, the ability of the missile to meet operational needs, and the progress of missile development.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 01, 1991
Accession Number
ADA245542

Entities

Organizations

  • United States Government Accountability Office

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accuracy
  • Air Force Facilities
  • Ballistic Missiles
  • Congress
  • Control Systems
  • Cost Analysis
  • Cost Estimates
  • Department Of Defense
  • Electronic Components
  • Flight Testing
  • Guidance
  • Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles
  • Lasers
  • National Security
  • Procurement
  • Test And Evaluation
  • Weapon Control

Readers

  • Government Contracting/Procurement.
  • Missile Defense Systems.
  • Strategic Security Studies