Further Discussion Regarding Recommendations Concerning Logistical Operations, Major Weapons Acquisition, and Manpower Issues

摘要

On other logistical support items we are concerned with the limited actions taken, particularly the issues regarding the need for a single manager for aircraft depot maintenance and consolidation of base support activities. We believe that DOD's plans to improve the acquisition of major weapon systems are commendable and agree that there is a good potential for significant savings resulting from the management improvements being initiated. However, the savings projected for some, such as multiyear contracting, may not be as large as anticipated. Also, difficult problems remain such as canceling lower priority programs and controlling cost growth. We also believe that much would be gained by greater attention to, and application of, the management principles contained in Office of Management and Budget Circular A-109 on major system acquisitions. We and DOD still have major differences on military pay and retirement issues. DOD has generally taken the position that all service members in a particular grade and with the same time in the service should be treated alike, regardless of whether the member serves in a highly technical hard-to-fill occupation or in an easy-to-fill occupation which requires a minimal skill level. We believe that this 'across-the-board' approach has not only become very expensive, but it has also served to make skill imbalance problems worse. We also disagree with the DOD view that the current retirement system effectively supports its manpower requirements. Lastly, we are encouraged by your establishment of the Office of Review and Oversight which has audit follow-up as a specific responsibility.