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Precision Guided Weapons
The descriptions of alternatives include the performance parameters of the defined options, proposed quantities, and operational concepts. The effectiveness analyses include: mission tasks (MT); measures of effectiveness (MOE); measures of performance (MOP); descriptions of effectiveness methodology; models and simulations and reason for selection; and effectiveness sensitivity. The cost analyses usually include: the Life Cycle Cost (LCC) methodology; cost models and data; risk methodology; and LCC results. The critical cost-effectiveness comparison includes: methodology description; models applied; and the results that combine cost and effectiveness. The recommendations include: selection of the preferred alternative; thresholds for cost and performance; and criteria for selecting alternatives based on MTs, MOEs, and MOPs. The actual content of the AOA is tailored to match the requirements of the program, the funding available, and the environment in which the program is to be executed. The programs (JDAM and JASSM) mentioned here as examples have been recognized throughout the DOD acquisition community for their cost effectiveness in providing needed weapon system capabilities in relatively short periods of time.
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We have supported the evolution of precision guided weapons from the man-in-the-loop laser and TV guided bombs of the 1980s through the current autonomous, launch-and-leave GPS/inertial guided weapons of today. Examples of these current weapons include the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM), the Joint Stand-Off Weapon (JSOW), and the Joint Air-Surface-Standoff Missile (JASSM). Prior to the start of the JDAM acquisition, Jacobs engineers supported the USAF in an in-house concept demonstration program. This concept development program demonstrated the feasibility of the GPS/inertial guidance concept and provided valuable flight test results which supported program approval. The success of the subsequent JDAM Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) and production program provided a firm foundation for the more sophisticated longer range JASSM. Early in Phase 1 (Program Definition and Risk Reduction) of JASSM, Jacobs supported the Analysis Of Alternatives (AOA) study which led to Secretary of Air Force approval to proceed to EMD. Over the 12 years that we have been supporting USAF munition and air armament acquisitions at Eglin AFB, FL, Jacobs engineers and analysts have conducted several similar analysis. In the 1980s, these were referred to as Cost Operational Effectiveness Analysis (COEA). The current AOAs are more comprehensive and provide a firm basis for DOD Milestone Decision Authority (MDA) officials to review requirements and make decisions on the best alternatives to pursue to satisfy mission needs. Some examples of the elements that we consider in supporting an AOA for a major acquisition program include the following: