Tactical Aircraft: F-22A Modernization Program Faces Cost, Technical, and Sustainment Risks

Abstract : The Air Force currently plans to spend $11.7 billion to modernize and improve reliability of the F-22A, its fifth generation air superiority fighter. Originally designed to counter air threats posed by the former Soviet Union, the post-Cold War era spurred efforts to add new missions and capabilities to the F-22A, including improved air-to-air and robust air-to-ground attack capabilities. In 2003, the Air Force established the F-22A modernization program to develop and insert new capabilities in four increments. GAO was asked to evaluate the following: (1) cost and schedule outcomes, and (2) testing results and risks going forward in the F-22A modernization program and related efforts. To do this, GAO examined the program's budgets and schedule estimates over time and discussed any changes with program officials, reviewed progress and results from developmental and operational testing, and reviewed plans to mitigate risks and resolve system deficiencies. GAO recommends that DoD evaluate capabilities to determine if future F-22A modernization efforts meeting DoD policy and statutory requirements should be established as separate major acquisition programs. DoD concurred with our recommendation.