Defense Acquisition: Use of Lead System Integrators (LSIs)-Background, Oversight Issues, and Options for Congress
Abstract
Some in Congress have expressed concern about the government's use of private-sector lead system integrators (LSIs) for executing large, complex, defense-related acquisition programs. LSIs are large, prime contractors hired to manage such programs. Supporters of the LSI concept argue that it is needed to execute such complex acquisition efforts, and can promote better technical oversight and innovation. Two LSI-managed programs the U.S. Army's Future Combat System (FCS) and the U.S. Coast Guard's Deepwater program have been strongly criticized by some observers because of cost and schedule overruns, and the potential for possible conflicts of interest. P.L. 110-181/H.R. 4986, the FY2008 National Defense Authorization Act, contains a provision (Section 802) that prohibits the awarding of future contracts for LSIs. H.R. 5658, the House-passed version of the FY2009 National Defense Authorization bill contains a provision (Section 4203) that would prohibit federal executive agencies from awarding new contracts for LSI functions in the acquisition of major systems, while S. 3001, the Senate-proposed bill, is silent on the LSI issue. This report will be updated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 20, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA486242
Entities
People
- Valerie Bailey Grasso
Organizations
- Library of Congress