A Weapon System - Integrated Cost Model for Aircraft: The Aircraft System Cost Estimating Tool (ASCET)

Cost constraints can have a significant impact on the design, production, performance, and supportability of a weapons system. The USAF needs models and cost tools that accurately evaluate the tradeoffs among these requirements throughout a system's life cycle. No generally applicable cost models are available that effectively integrate all phases of a weapon system and actively trade-off cost, schedule, performance, and supportability factors on an equal basis. The Manufacturing Technology Division at WPAFB is coordinating the development and employment of a Weapon System Integrated Cost Modes (WS-ICM). The WS-ICM will estimate complete life cycle costs of a weapon system with tools designed for specific phases. A Production Cost Model is in development Models for the other two phases are needed. Tecolote Research has pioneered an innovative approach to objective cost estimating for advanced technology systems. Our Aircraft System Cost Estimating Tool (ASCET) (pronounced rates the best attributes of parametric and build cost estimating and provides a design based cost estimate from minimal inputs. ASCET can also iterate cost as an independent variable (CAIV) back through design tools to identify a feasible, preducible design that meets both operational and financial requirements.