Defense Acquisitions: Senior Leaders Should Emphasize Key Practices to Improve Weapon System Reliability

Abstract

The DoD invests tens of billions of dollars each year in major defense acquisition programs, designing and developing technologically advanced weapon systems that warfighters expect will meet specific performance requirements, including reliability requirements. Systems that are not reliable make it more difficult for warfighters to perform their missions. The GAO was asked to examine DoD weapon system reliability. This report addresses (1) how selected companies in the commercial sector address reliability, (2) how selected DoD acquisition programs addressed reliability, and (3) the extent to which DoD leadership has highlighted key reliability practices. The GAO collected information on leading commercial practices at the 2019 Reliability and Maintainability Symposium and from four commercial companies known for delivering reliable products. The GAO also assessed how seven DoD acquisition programs—both older and newer, and representing all the military services—addressed reliability; reviewed key documents and interviewed knowledgeable officials; and reviewed reliability-related guidance and policy from senior DoD leaders.