Armored Systems Modernization: Program Inconsistent With Current Threat and Budgetary Constraints
NSIAD-91-254
Published: Jul 29, 1991. Publicly Released: Aug 20, 1991.
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Highlights
Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO examined the Army's Armored Systems Modernization Program's (ASM) justification, affordability, and priorities.
Recommendations
Matter for Congressional Consideration
| Matter | Status | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Congress should not provide additional funding for the ASM program without an accompanying Department of Defense reassessment of the justification and affordability of the ASM program and of the priority of vehicles within the program. | The Department of Defense (DOD) terminated the ASM program, thus Congress did not appropriate specific funding for ASM. |
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Department of Defense | Before seeking additional funds for the ASM program, the Secretary of Defense should reassess the ASM program's justification, affordability, and priorities in light of the significant threat changes, the projected large funding shortfalls, and the greater need for ASM vehicles other than the tank. This reassessment should accompany any request for funding the ASM program. |
DOD, in June 1992, terminated the ASM program for affordability reasons and change in threat.
|
| Department of Defense | If the 1992 tests demonstrate the viability of the electrothermal gun technology, the Secretary of Defense should direct the Army to evaluate using the electrothermal gun to improve the lethality and survivability of the M1A1 and M1A2 tank fleets. Putting the electrothermal gun on those tank fleets would further reduce the need for the Block III tank. |
The Block III tank has been eliminated. Several ongoing tech base research projects are expected to result in significant improvements to M1A1 and A2.
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Army procurementCost analysisDefense appropriationsProcurement appropriationsProgram evaluationReductions in forceStrategic forcesWeapons research and developmentWeapons systemsMilitary forces