Summary

In response to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the Navy's plan to develop a replacement for its P-3C maritime patrol aircraft.

GAO found that: (1) in November 1985, the Navy initiated a program to acquire an improved P-3C on a competitive basis; (2) in March 1987, since it had been unable to obtain competition, the Navy expanded the program to include derivatives of commercial aircraft; (3) the Navy is conducting a study aimed at formulating more precise technical requirements; and (4) the Navy plans to issue a final solicitation in September 1987.