Weapon Systems
Issues Concerning the Army's Light Helicopter Family Program Gao ID: NSIAD-86-121 May 22, 1986In response to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the Army's Light Helicopter Family (LHX) program, specifically: (1) acquisition costs; (2) affordability; (3) operation and support costs; (4) requirements; (5) technical risks; (6) acquisition strategy; and (7) program alternatives.
GAO found that the LHX program's goals of replacing the aging helicopter fleet with aircraft that would outperform the older aircraft and be less expensive to operate and support are worthy. However, GAO believes it is too early to comment on the program's prospects for success since there are major difficulties to overcome to achieve the program's goals.