Since 1990, the Dept. of Defense's (DoD) management of its major weapon acquisitions has been designated as a high-risk area; however, DoD's problems delivering weapon systems on time, at the estimated cost, in the planned amounts, and with the promised performance go back decades. This statement describes the poor outcomes on weapon system investments that make reform imperative; attributes of the requirements, funding, and acquisition processes that will need to change for reform to be effective; and positive steps that Congress and DoD have taken to improve weapon program outcomes. Illustrations.

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