The Department of Defense Office of Inspector General (DoD OIG) today released a “Summary Report: Lessons Learned from the DoD OIG Reports on Munitions.” The DoD OIG identified recurring challenges related to the safety, security, and accountability of DoD munitions. The summary report highlights lessons learned reported in 19 DoD OIG reports issued over the last five years.

The report emphasizes that munitions are a vital component of military readiness—a top DoD priority. Proper storage and handling of munitions reduces the risk of serious injury or death. Additionally, it helps prevent damage to DoD property and reduces the risk of munitions being lost, stolen, or misplaced. As such, the DoD should consider taking the following actions:

• Establish or update procedures
• Implement munitions safety requirements
• Strengthen munitions security measures
• Enhance accountability controls 
• Improve management of contractor oversight

Of the DoD OIG’s 93 recommendations made in the publicly available reports reviewed for this summary report, 36 remain open.  The DoD OIG will continue monitoring the implementation of these recommendations.

This report is one of a series that summarizes key themes and lessons learned from the DoD OIG’s body of oversight work in several important areas.