The Defense Acquisition Challenge: A Strategy for Improving Weapon System Afford ability

An approach is presented to maintain the technological supremacy of U.S. weapon systems at a more affordable Cost. This is the defense acquisition challenge for the 1990s. Seven cost drivers, judged to be among the leading sources of cost growth in our major acquisition programs, are examined in detail. The top three determinants of cost are related to a common theme--the need for more disciplined program execution. The remaining cost drivers are associated with either the program initiation process or systemic problems in the defense industrial base. From this discussion, a strategy is developed to change the acquisition culture--one that elevates the importance of cost control and puts this imperative on an equal footing with expanding the performance envelope. Policy recommendations are offered for consideration by senior defense acquisition officials.