Improved Operational Testing and Evaluation and Methods of Combining Test Information for the Stryker Family of Vehicles and Related Army Systems : Phase II Report

The U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC) is responsible for the operational testing and evaluation of Army systems in development. ATECrequested that the National Research Council form the Panel on Operational Test Design and Evaluation of the Interim Armored Vehicle (Stryker). The charge to this panel was to explore three issues concerning the IOT plans for the Stryker/SBCT. First, the panel was asked to examine the measures selected to assess the performance and effectiveness of the Stryker/SBCT in comparison both to requirements and to the baseline system. Second, the panel was asked to review the test design for the Stryker/SBCT initial operational test to see whether it is consistent with best practices. Third, the panel was asked to identify the advantages and disadvantages of techniques for combining operational test data with data from other sources and types of use. In a previous report (appended to the current report) the panel presented findings, conclusions, and recommendations pertaining to the first two issues: measures of performance and effectiveness, and test design. In the current report, the panel discusses techniques for combining information. Table of ContentsFront MatterExecutive Summary1. Introduction to Combining Information2. Examples of Combining Information3. Combining Information in Practice4. Prerequisites for Combining Information5. Testing Challenges and Opportunities Posed by the Future Combat SystemReferencesAppendix A: Further Details Concerning the Bearing Cage ExampleAppendix B: Technical Details on Combining Information in Estimation: A Treatment of Separate Failure ModesAppendix C: The Rocket Development ProgramAppendix D: Acronyms and AbbreviationsPhase I Report: Operational Test Design and Evaluation of the Interim Armored VehicleBiographical Sketches of Panel Members and Staff