KC-46 Tanker Aircraft: Acquisition Plans Have Good Features but Contain Schedule Risk

摘要

Aerial refueling is essential to global U.S. military operations. The backbone of the nations tanker forces-the KC-135 Stratotanker-is over 50 years old on average with age-related problems and increasing support costs that could ground the fleet. Given this, the Air Force has initiated the $51.7 billion KC-46 program to start replacing the current fleet. Plans are to produce 18 tankers by 2017 and 179 aircraft through 2027. Other follow-on procurements are anticipated to replace all KC-135s. The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012 requires GAO to annually review the KC-46 program through 2017. This report addresses (1) the programs acquisition strategy, including its contracting approach; (2) the major schedule and technical risks; and (3) the extent the programs acquisition strategy and documentation comply with policy, legislation, and best practices. To address these areas, GAO reviewed key documents on the programs contract and cost baseline. GAO discussed the major schedule and technical risks with program office officials and examined an independent technology readiness assessment. GAO also assessed the acquisition plan and required documentation to determine compliance with acquisition legislation, policy, and best practices.