Defense Acquisitions: Challenges Associated With Implementing the Joint Tactical Radio System.

Abstract

The Department of Defense (DOD) is consolidating various service-unique radio acquisition programs into the Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS). Through this consolidation, DOD expects to acquire JTRS units to replace all of its current radio inventory avionics upgrades, appropriate satellite terminals, and personal communications systems. Although total program costs have yet to be determined, DOD officials estimate it could cost billions to replace about 200 types of radios, with a replacement potential of over 750,000 existing units--also known as legacy systems. The JTRS program's key objectives are to achieve cost savings, improve performance, and provide an interoperable communications system that enables joint and coalition forces to work together. The former Subcommittee Chairman requested that we evaluate the JTRS acquisition strategy and management plans. As agreed with his office, we (1) determined the status of the JTRS program, including DOD development plans and (2) identified challenges program officials will face in implementing the JTRS acquisition strategy.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Sep 01, 1999
Accession Number
ADA368091

Entities

Organizations

  • United States Government Accountability Office

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Cyber
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Human Systems
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Acquisition
  • Air Force
  • Congress
  • Contracts
  • Department Of Defense
  • Government Procurement
  • Information Systems
  • Joint Military Activities
  • Military Acquisition
  • Procurement
  • Radio Communications
  • Radio Equipment
  • Software Defined Radio
  • Tactical Radios
  • Test And Evaluation
  • Wireless Communications
  • Wireless Networks

Readers

  • Computer Networking
  • Defense Acquisition Program Management

Technology Areas

  • Space