Research for DDG

In January 1997, CNA published a report (CRM 96-133) that identified the most cost-effective and operationally suitable strategy for testing and repairing electronic components on AEGIS destroyers. The study concluded that alternatives that included the sue of the USM-646 tester on board the DDGs (and, by implication, on other ships as well) were the most cost-effective. The USM 646 tester, which is based on a personal computer, uses diagnostic software (called gold disks) on a CD-ROM to test electronic components for faults. Once the faults are identified, they can be repaired if the correct equipment and parts are available. By doing tests and repairs on board, a ship can avoid considerable depot-level repair costs and other costs as well. A full test ad repair capability requires five elements: the USM-646; a gold disk library; a PACE 2000 tool station; a supply of repair piece parts; and qualified technicians. Subsequently, OPNAV asked CNA to develop an investment strategy that would state the order in which surface ships should receive the elements. N43 further asked that we identify the costs and cost avoidance associated with this strategy.