U.S. Antisatellite Program

Responses to Questions on Program Funding Gao ID: NSIAD-86-161BR June 19, 1986

Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reported on the Air Force's Antisatellite (ASAT) program, specifically: (1) the total number of ASAT weapons procurements; (2) the impact of cancellation of test shots against targets in the research and development phase; (3) the cost to terminate ASAT; (4) the feasibility of mothballing and restarting ASAT; (5) the status of the ASAT production funds; and (6) the minimum funding required for the program in fiscal year (FY) 1987.

GAO found that: (1) as of May 30, 1986, the Air Force had procured 15 research and development missiles, 4 miniature vehicles, and parts for 9 more vehicles; (2) testing against targets is vital to the program; (3) total government termination costs would vary depending upon the date of termination, the status of individual contracts, and the costs to settle claims; (4) there are no cost estimates for mothballing the contractor's production lines so as to ensure restarting capability at a later date; (5) about $62 million of the funds appropriated in FY 1985 for ASAT are unobligated, as well as $38 million appropriated in FY 1985 and 1986 for ASAT carrier aircraft equipment; and (6) the minimum level of funding required to keep the program going in FY 1987 depends upon the level of program desired.



The Justia Government Accountability Office site republishes public reports retrieved from the U.S. GAO These reports should not be considered official, and do not necessarily reflect the views of Justia.