Defense Acquisitions: DOD Efforts to Develop Laser Weapons for Theater Defense
NSIAD-99-50
Published: Mar 31, 1999. Publicly Released: Mar 31, 1999.
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Highlights
Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the Department of Defense's (DOD) programs to develop laser weapons for missile defense, focusing on: (1) what laser weapons are being considered for missile defense and the coordination among the program offices developing the systems; (2) the status and cost of each system; and (3) the technical challenges each system faces as determined by DOD program managers and analysts and other laser system experts.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Defense | Regarding the ABL Program, the Secretary of Defense should direct the Secretary of the Air Force to reconsider exercising the option for the second ABL aircraft for the engineering and manufacturing development phase of the program until flight testing of the ABL system developed during the program definition and risk reduction phase has demonstrated that the ABL concept is an achievable, effective combat system. |
Closed – Implemented
Congress approved funding for DOD to procure the second aircraft for this program.
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Topics
Air defense systemsBallistic missile defenseDefense capabilitiesLife cycle costsMilitary aircraftMilitary procurementOperational testingSchedule slippagesSystems testingWeapons research and developmentWeapons systems