Which primary weapon system function is tested during Live Fire Test and Evaluation?

The primary weapon system function tested during Live Fire Test and Evaluation (LFT&E) is survivability. This testing phase is crucial because it assesses how well a weapon system can withstand combat conditions, including its ability to minimize damage to itself while effectively engaging the enemy. Survivability encompasses various components, such as the system's resilience to enemy fire, potential vulnerabilities, and the ability to protect the crew and critical systems during live fire scenarios.

Survivability is a key aspect of defense acquisition and military operations, as it informs decision-makers about the effectiveness of a weapon in real-world situations. This evaluation helps ensure that systems can perform their intended missions while keeping personnel and equipment safe, which is vital for effective military strategy and operational effectiveness.

While accuracy, range, and affordability are essential factors for weapon systems, LFT&E specifically focuses on survivability in the context of live fire testing. This distinctive focus allows developers and military planners to identify and rectify weaknesses in a system before full-scale production and deployment.