Interesting discussion all.

I worked on the LCS Program 5 years ago supporting the cost analysis effort. There was/is a team dedicated to critically analyzing industry costs, developing Gov't cost estimates, etc.

Some of the main problems (in my opinion) were the "fast track" nature of the program, unrealistically low first-ship target cost, and requirements changes. Many requirements were not nailed down fully at the start of the program. Also, the high speed requirements drove a lot of the cost increases.

Cost can take a back seat to other program requirements (schedule, performance). But, the high first-ship cost of the LCS is one of the main reasons the program was throttled back and there aren't more than 2 LCSs in the water right now. Bottom line...during program execution, I think Navy "costers" do a good job. The Navy and other services need to do a better job developing realistic cost estimates for future programs BEFORE program kick-off.

But then again...would the LCS have been started knowing its actual final acquisition cost? Maybe or maybe not.

You are right regarding Mr. Levin's opinion of Bill O., and O'Reilly is jealous of Mr. Levin's book sales! Seems Mr. Levin is none to fond of Beck either...

Yep. And I've heard him say "I don't see color" so many times, when it's obvious all of his opinions are based on race.