Defense Logistics: Actions Needed to Improve Department-Wide Management of Conventional Ammunition Inventory

Abstract : DOD manages nearly $70 billion of conventional ammunition which includes many types of items other than nuclear and special weapons at eight Army depots. The military services use automated information systems to manage their inventory. They also compile annual reports that compare ammunition inventory levels against stated requirements. GAO was asked to evaluate DOD s management of conventional ammunition. This report addresses the extent to which (1) the services information systems facilitate efficient management of the conventional ammunition inventory and (2) the services collect and share inventory data to help them meet their stated requirements. GAO reviewed DOD guidance on materiel management and logistics systems, reviewed the services annual inventory reports for fiscal years 2009 to 2013, and discussed inventory management and related issues with service officials. GAO is making seven recommendations to improve the efficiency of the services' systems for managing DOD s conventional ammunition inventory and to improve data sharing among the services, including implementing data exchange standards, developing a plan for improving the accuracy and timeliness of ammunition data in the Army's LMP, enhancing DOD's ability to provide total asset visibility over conventional ammunition, and incorporating additional items as part of the services' current stratification and redistribution process. DOD concurred with all of these recommendations.