Comparative Case Study: Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle and Amphibious Combat Vehicle

Abstract

The Marine Corps Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV) program cost taxpayers over $3 billion from inception to cancelation. The Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) attempts to replace the Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAV) and pick up where the EFV left off. A program comparison can be used to learn from previous management mistakes and prevent failures of this magnitude. By analyzing the two amphibious vehicle programs, I assess pertinent successes and failures against the model with available program management tools, including decision science principles. This report compares key junctures in both programs' life cycles and offers recommendations for future amphibious combat vehicle acquisition. The conclusion reveals that unbalanced cost and schedule increases overpowered the EFV performance goal, leading to cancelation. As a result, the ACV reveals less performance but at a lower cost in comparison. Through research, acquisition professionals can better understand the importance of oversight, find solutions, and effectively equip themselves to manage major defense weapon systems.