CH-53 Integrated Mechanical Diagnostic System (IMDS)

The budget request included $28.3 million in Aircraft Procurement, Navy (APN) for the H-53 series helicopters, including $2.3 million for the Integrated Mechanical Diagnostic System (IMDS). The committee notes that IMDS enhances safety and reduces helicopter life cycle costs. Additional funding for IMDS has been included on the Chief of Naval Operations' unfunded priorities list. The committee recommends an increase of $4.4 million in APN for IMDS, for a total authorization of $32.7 million.