Budgeting system life-cycle costs

The available data from the services indicate that corrosion in weapons systems is the primary cost driver in life-cycle costs (46). Quantifying corrosion is difficult as neither the mechanisms nor the methodologies exist to quantify accurately. Analysis of field data reveals instances where questionable materials selection early in the acquisition process has led to enormous unanticipated increases in life-cycle costs because of corrosion (J Argento, US Army TACOM-ARDEC, Picatinny Arsenal, NJ, Personal Communication, 1999). In view of force reduction and a reduction in budgets, consideration must be given to the selection of advanced materials, processes, and designs that will require less manpower for corrosion inspection and maintenance. 

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