The Air Force requires a premilestone I cost methodology to assess the costs for emerging technologies in the areas of advanced avionics and integrated avionics architecture; high performance turbine engines and other innovative propulsion systems; and high temperature materials with different properties. This methodology will provide the approaches needed to estimate the costs of the specific technologies an their impact on the total new weapon system/subsystem cost modeling in comparison to the estimated differences in operational effectiveness. The proposed effort will develop cost model modules for the emerging technologies to assess their impact on the conceptual alternatives. The cost model modules will be based on engineering insight into the advanced technologies. Using engineering insight with sound engineering fundamentals, the individual cost model modules will provide accurate, dependable results. These cost modules will be incorporated into a total weapon system model which will accept operational inputs for a complete assessment of the new weapon system/subsystem. The cost model modules and the total weapon system model will be compatible with IBM PC applications. Results from the emerging technology cost modules will be used to define a database that can be incorporated into a larger aircraft systems database.
