GAO recommends more transparency on Next-Gen OPIR schedule risks

摘要

A new report from the Government Accountability Office once again sheds doubt on the Space Force's schedule for the Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared program - despite insistence from the service that its schedule remains on track to begin launching the satellites in fiscal year 2025. The report, released today, reiterates a message the agency has been transmitting for several years, saying the service's plans are overly optimistic and its schedule targets "unlikely." In a June report, GAO predicted a two-year delay to the launch timeline linked to payload development and integration risk. The Space Force, however, contends that the program has a measured approach to risk-reduction. Program Executive Officer for Space Development Col. Brian Denaro told reporters in August a recent critical design review did not indicate any schedule issues. Denaro said he thinks the disconnect between GAO's assessment and his office's outlook is tied to proximity to the program. Other agencies are relying, in part, on "historical parametric data" based on the service's performance on other programs.