Defense Science Board Task Force on Munitions System Reliability
Abstract
The Defense Science Board Task Force on Munitions System Reliability met from June 2004 to May 2005. The Task Force's charter focused on three principal areas of interest: * Conducting a methodologically sound assessment of the failure rates of US munitions in actual combat use; * Reviewing ongoing efforts to reduce the amount of unexploded ordnance (UXO) resulting from munition failures, and evaluate ways to improve or accelerate these efforts; and * Identifying other feasible measures the United States can take to reduce the threat that failed munitions pose to friendly forces and civilians. It was not within the purview of this Task Force to examine weapon requirements, but to examine the issue of munition reliability and identify ways to reduce the amount of UXO resulting from failed munitions. Reducing the amount of UXO will lower the risk of casualties among ground forces and enhance their freedom of maneuver in operations following munition use. It will provide greater flexibility for operational commanders who now must consider the risks to friendly forces and potential for collateral damage associated with a particular munition. It will significantly reduce the risks of post-conflict civilian casualties and the challenges that UXO poses to stabilization and reconstruction activities, including winning the "hearts and minds" of local populations. As US global commitments grow, our global responsibilities to ensure safe, reliable and effective expenditure of munitions must continue to grow as well.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA441959
Entities
Organizations
- Defense Science Board