Defense Acquisitions: Challenges Associated With Implementing the Joint Tactical Radio System - Government Accountability Office (GAO) report

Defense Acquisitions: Challenges Associated With Implementing the Joint Tactical Radio System - GAO Report

Date:	Sept. 9, 1999
Report No.:	NSIAD-99-179
Pages:	36
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Subjects: Commercial products Defense procurement Military communication Military radio Military research and development Requirements definition Systems compatibility Systems design DARPA Advanced Digital Receiver Technology Program DARPA Global Mobile Information System DOD Joint Tactical Radio System Summary: The Defense Department (DOD) is consolidating various service-unique radio acquisition programs into the Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS). Through this consolidation, DOD expected to acquire JTRS units to replace all of its current radio inventory, avionics upgrades, appropriate satellite terminals, and personal communications systems. Although total program costs have yet to be determined, DOD estimates that it could cost billions to replace about 200 types of radios. The JTRS' key objectives are to save money, improve performance, and deliver an interoperable communications system that allows joint and coalition forces to work together. This report evaluates the JTRS acquisition strategy and management plans. GAO (1) determines the status of the program, including DOD development plans, and (2) identifies challenges program officials will face in implementing the JTRS acquisition strategy.