Operational Test Director SRAW Test Data Analysis and Evaluation
Part I
Grounded on the OIT&E statistics collected, the trials were halted because of three main reasons.
During test events event 3, 4, 6 and 9, i.e. four test events, there was a failed missile arm. This signifies a 40% fail rate on the overall test series. This figure exceeds the allowed 10% fail rate for the test series.
During test events 4 and 9, there was a failed missile launch. This is a 20% test series fail rate, exceeding the allowable 10% fail rate threshold. This translates to an overall test rate failure.
Test event 9 experienced a horrifying event where the test soldier received burn during testing of the SRAW. This had a psychological impact on the other test soldiers, questioning the safety of the SRAW. This reduced their level of cooperation and contributed to halting the test series.
During test events 4, 7 and 9, target hit was failed. Showing a 30% miss firing rate. This is above the allowable threshold for failed hits.
Part II
Despite the test soldier involved in shot 9 receiving severe burns during the test, we optrd to continue to shot number 10 based on two reasons.
For the completion of data collection and exercising of a complete test series, shot number 9 was crucial. The parameters for the shot were unique and provided real life conditions under which the SRAW may be used.
The accident was caused by the test soldier. The soldier kicked the missile sight using his right foot right before picking up the missile. The delicate form of of the missile that were in use for the test series require care when handling as, do all missiles. This was therefore human error and not technical glitches with the missile or equipment in use.
Part III
The aim of the test series was to determine the accuracy and range of the SRAW in different natural and climatic conditions. This involved the testing of the thresholds initially set by the manufacturer of the SRAW. During the test series, the test results suggested that the capacity and the threshold of the SRAW are far beyond the ones initially set. This facilitates the fact that the SRAW would be used in conditions that may require Marines to fire the weapon closer to the target than the set minimum range.
