Book Description

The Department of Defense (DOD) operates the Automatic Digital Network (AUTODIN) to transmit and receive digital messages between some 900 telecommunications centers worldwide, excluding those operated by intelligence organizations. These centers are staffed with an estimated 20,000 military and civilian employees whose salaries and related benefits cost the Government about $200 million annually. GAO made this review because of continuing congressional interest in the management and operation of telecommunications systems and the significant cost of staffing the centers. As a result of this study, it is recommended that the Secretary of Defense or his designee, such as the Director, Telecommunications and Command and Control Systems, should; (1) develop uniform DOD telecommunications center staffing standards; (2) update the standards, as necessary, to encompass evolving telecommunications automation advances; and (3) insure that staffing levels are consistent with the standards.