The Government Accountability Office has urged the Department of Homeland Security to modify the administration process during the testing and evaluation phase of the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Security Cutter program.GAO said in a report published Wednesday the Coast Guard should work to define key performance parameters for the operation of cutter boats under the NSC program.
Auditors made the recommendations after the U.S. Navy’s Commander, Operational Test and Evaluation Force found 10 major defects related to the cutters’ weapons systems and other equipment during the initial tests on the NSC program in 2014.
According to GAO, DHS’ guidance on acquisition does not mention procedures that should be conducted by program offices in response to the results of follow-on tests nor the timing for such tests.
Regarding the Offshore Patrol Cutter and Fast Response Cutter programs, the Coast Guard has made changes to its initial testing schedules, competition process and other aspects of procurement, according to the report.
