Joint Simulation Training

Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the: (1) use and management of computer simulation technology to enhance battle staff training; and (2) Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) oversight of that training. GAO noted that: (1) the Department of Defense (DOD) is currently planning to establish two somewhat duplicative computer simulation training facilities that would be located very close to each other; (2) both facilities would use advanced computer systems and perform similar operations; (3) DOD officials have acknowledged that the two facilities could be integrated into a single facility; (4) DOD has estimated that the operating costs for the two facilities would be 75 percent greater than the cost of a single, integrated facility; (5) the facility currently being leased by DOD is large enough to house the integrated facility; (6) DOD concerns about operational complications at the integrated facility do not justify the establishment of duplicate facilities at increased costs; and (7) to avoid the inefficient use of scarce resources, DOD should carefully examine the possibility of consolidating the two facilities before proceeding with its current plans.