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C-17 Aircraft: Cost and Performance Issues

NSIAD-95-26 Published: Jan 26, 1995. Publicly Released: Jan 26, 1995.
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Highlights

Pursuant to a legislative requirement, GAO reviewed the Department of Defense's (DOD) C-17 program, focusing on: (1) the aircraft's ability to achieve its original program requirements; and (2) whether further procurement of C-17 aircraft is justified.

Recommendations

Matter for Congressional Consideration

Matter Status Comments
In light of changes in the C-17 intended role, its less than anticipated performance, the results of DOD cost and operational effectiveness analysis and continued program cost growth, Congress should not support the C-17 program beyond the minimum number needed to fulfill unique military requirements. That number has not yet been determined but is the subject of several ongoing studies.
Closed – Not Implemented
During consideration of the FY 1997 Defense Authorization and Appropriations bills, Congress approved the decision to acquire 120 C-17s and authorized a multiyear contract to complete the procurement.

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Topics

Air Force procurementCombat readinessCost effectiveness analysisDefense contingency planningDefense cost controlMilitary aircraftMilitary airlift operationsMilitary systems analysisShort takeoff aircraftMilitary forces