**GAO-08-1113**                      Published: Sep 26, 2008. Publicly Released: Sep 26, 2008.                  

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## Highlights

The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) is likely to spend $460 million annually on missiles used as targets for flight tests. Executing these tests depends on the quality and availability of targets. Congress asked GAO to assess (1) if MDA is providing reliable targets; (2) the causes of any deficiencies; and (3) if resolutions exist for any problems identified. To do this, GAO analyzed acquisition policies and procedures; flight test data; and budget, program execution, and acquisition materials; and interviewed MDA and DOD officials.

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## Topics

Government Operations

Agency proceedingsBallistic missile defenseBallistic missilesCost analysisDefense capabilitiesDefense cost controlDefense economic analysisDefense procurementFederal procurementMissile basesMissilesOperational testingProcurement planningProduct evaluationProgram evaluationRequirements definitionRisk managementSchedule slippagesStrategic planningSurface to air missilesSystems designCost estimatesCost growth