Embedded Computers: Navy's Approach to Developing Patrol Aircraft Avionics System Too Risky.

摘要

The Navy plans to buy complex avionics computer systems, and related communications equipment and sensors, for submarine patrol aircraft. This acquisition, designated the Update IV Program, is intended to provide the Navy with the capability to locate, identify, and attack the expected threat of more quiet submarines. This report reviews the Department of Defense's acquisition of computer systems embedded in weapon systems. Objectives were to determine whether (1) the Navy plans to adequately test the avionics computer systems before buying them and (2) Navy management oversight of these computer systems has occurred. The Navy is taking a high risk approach in acquiring a new complex computer-based avionics system for its patrol aircraft. Although the Navy originally planned to thoroughly test this system before buying more than four, program delays led to the Navy to postpone complete testing. This clearly contrary to (1) Defense policies which, when followed, should be effective in mitigating computer system development risks and (2) the principle of fly before you buy.