**GAO-03-442**                      Published: Mar 31, 2003. Publicly Released: Mar 31, 2003.                  

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## Highlights

The Advanced SEAL Delivery System (ASDS) is a mini-submarine that is one of the U.S. Special Operations Command's largest investments. The program is approaching the end of a difficult development and must undergo key testing before decisions are made to proceed beyond the first boat. Over the past several years, the Congress has raised concerns about technical difficulties, schedule delays, cost growth, and management oversight. The Senate Armed Services Committee requested that GAO review the status and problems facing the program. Specifically, this report examines the ASDS program's (1) progress towards meeting requirements and technical challenges, (2) ability to meet schedule and cost projections, and (3) underlying factors contributing to program problems.

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## Topics

National Defense

Operational testingSubmarinesProgram evaluationMilitary research and developmentMilitary vesselsEvaluation criteriaContract performanceShipsU.S. NavySpecial operations