Summary: GAO reviewed the Department of Defense's (DOD) modernization program for its Worldwide Military Command and Control System (WWMCCS) and its corresponding information system (WIS), focusing on: (1) the justification for the planned $500-million WIS joint mission computer system acquisition; and (2) whether completed or planned upgrades to the current system met the defined user requirements.
GAO found that: (1) completed or planned upgrades will correct six of the seven system deficiencies DOD identified and will bring system capability to the level of current computer technology; (2) the remaining deficiency in system security is not correctable by currently available computer technology; and (3) DOD is developing the Joint Operation Planning and Execution System (JOPES) in two increments, with the first increment modernizing and integrating current information management activities, and the second supporting upgraded system activities. GAO also found that, although DOD has identified a need for important new joint mission and security capabilities, DOD has not: (1) defined system requirements for supporting JOPES Increment II capabilities; (2) established a security policy, defined security requirements, or explored alternative approaches for meeting those requirements; or (3) established a computer performance measurement and capacity planning program to help guide future computer system upgrades or replacement decisions.
