Original Date: 07/13/1992
Revision Date: 01/18/2007

During the Desert Storm operation, a need for a more capable bomb to destroy deeply buried reinforced concrete bunkers was identified. The lead for this effort was assigned to Eglin AFB with Lockheed providing design support. To meet the time frame established, this teaming effort quickly expanded and eventually became a consortium of activities to provide all expertise and capabilities. The initial contact with Watervliet Arsenal (WVA) centered on the availability of gun barrels that might be utilized as the body for the bomb development effort. A quick check of assets in house determined that the barrels that might be appropriate for this effort were on hand. Operating from telephone instructions and sketches, WVA personnel began the process of converting gun barrel tubes into bomb housings. Twenty-three days after the initial call, the first units were delivered for test and WVA had established itself as a critical team member of the consortium.

The program was successful because the skill, tooling, facilities and material were available to do the job; there was a single point management established; communication was active at all levels; there was enhanced cooperation among all members; transportation was available when needed; and because there was no opportunity for rework, everything was done right the first time.

For more information see the Point of Contact for this survey.