Air Defense

Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed issues related to a proposed air defense agreement between the United States and the Federal Republic of Germany that would require both countries to purchase air defense systems and cooperate in operating and maintaining air bases located in Germany.

GAO found that, although the agreement is being executed, the United States has not yet totally accepted it because of uncertainty about: (1) the transfer of Roland missile systems to the United States; (2) the type of telecommunications equipment to be used; (3) the type of programs that Germany will finance pursuant to the agreement; and (4) the terms under which Germany will furnish certain equipment for U.S.-owned, German-operated Patriot missile systems. The Department of Defense (DOD) expects to finalize the agreement in March 1986. GAO also found that: (1) Congress has appropriated funds to purchase several Patriot units and radar sensors and to increase the Patriot production base to the required level; (2) pursuant to the terms of the agreement, the United States waived certain research and development, contract administration, and other costs that are usually required for foreign military sales by the Arms Export Control Act; and (3) DOD believes that the production of Patriot units is essentially on schedule.