Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP): Origins, Implementation and Analysis

摘要

Low-Rate Initial Production provides units for operational testing and is also intended to prove out the production process. This thesis examines the background of LRIP to present the reason and intent for its establishment. Additionally, it analyzes the LRIP problems encountered during its evolution. To provide this information historical and current statutory, legislative and regulatory data were reviewed. Also, GAO and DODIG audits and reports provided investigative information relating to LRIP problems. The findings of the analysis determined that LRIP problems encountered in the past were due to unclear regulations and policies that failed to provide adequate guidance on the LRIP procedure and oversight requirements. However, the new acquisition regulations and model appear to eliminate the ambiguity in the process and should eliminate problems encountered during LRIP.