3.3  Progress toward Initial Operational Capability

Item

Original Planned

Achieved/Forecast

Variance (Months)

Variance Explanations/Implications

IOC

Dec 09

Dec 11

24

The AIR5418 Project Office is currently working toward achieving an Initial Materiel Release which will allow IOC by December 2011. The variance is attributable to delays in the AF/A-18 A/B software development and certification process, which has required extensive testing and redevelopment to ensure airworthiness and operational effectiveness.