A Comparative Study of U.S. and Foreign Naval Acquisition, Design, and Construction Policy and Practices

Abstract

In an effort to reduce the cost of Navy ships without significantly reducing capability, the U.S. Navy has performed a series of ongoing investigations into areas of potential cost reduction. One of these investigations was a literature study done at the University of Michigan Department of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering to identify and compare acquisition, design and construction practices in a number of different countries. Recommendations for potential cost saving changes to the U.S. Navy system, including reduction of administrative costs, design to cost, and changes in labor policies, were made based on the comparisons. This paper is a modified version of the final report submitted to the Department of the Navy.