Operations and maintenance cost for new major U.S. Coast Guard platforms: projected versus actual costs.

Abstract

This thesis examines the accuracy of the operations and maintenance budget models developed for new U.S. Coast Guard cutters and aircraft as part of life cycle cost analysis prior to acquisition. The HU-25A medium range search aircraft and HH-65A short range recovery aircraft were used along with the 270 foot medium endurance cutter and the 110 foot patrol boat. A regression method of estimating these costs using historical costs was explored as an alternative to the laborious task of identifying each major cost element. The results indicated that the budget models are poor predictors and that parametric methods may provide more accuracy. Additional research in developing cost estimating relationships for this purpose is needed.