Multiple Launch Rocket System:
Range Less Than Needed and Sustained Rocket Production Not Ensured
NSIAD-97-196R: Published: Jul 30, 1997. Publicly Released: Jul 30, 1997.
- Full Report:
GAO reviewed the Multiple Launch Rocket System's (MLRS) improvements.
GAO noted that: (1) although the extended range rocket meets its requirement to provide longer range capability, it will not satisfy the Army's stated needs concerning range; (2) the Army approved limited production of extended range rockets about 1 year ago, but one of the rocket's five critical performance requirements has not yet been met--the number of hazardous, unexploded submunitions left after firing; (3) planned Army procurements of extended range rockets will not sustain the production of affordable, qualified rockets during fiscal years 1998-2001 and that foreign military sales expected to fill the production gap have not yet materialized; and (4) although the Army prefers the more capable follow-on guided rocket, Army funding actions are delaying guided rocket production and requiring extended range rocket production a year longer than planned.