Ramp-to-Ramp Transfers of Foreign Military Sales Aircraft and Related LogisticsProblems

摘要

This thesis examined the concept of 'ramp-to-ramp' aircraft transfers in theForeign Military Sales Program. Avoidance of storage costs was the major benefit of this concept, and the lack of support equipment and spare parts are the major drawbacks. Planning and coordination, logistical problems, and conflicting USAF regulations, programs, and policies were examined to determine the effect each had on the 'ramp-to-ramp' transfer of the last remaining F-5 aircraft to FMS countries. A study of background papers, electronic messages, minutes from meetings, and published articles was used to develop an understanding of the organization and planning process involved with the 'ramp-to-ramp' transfer of aircraft. Personal interviews described strengths, weaknesses, and problems. The concept worked better in theory than in practice. The lack of sufficient support equipment to accompany delivery of the aircraft was the most constraining factor. Political considerations, lack of logistical planning tools, and conflicting organizational goals reduced the effectiveness of 'ramp-to-ramp' transfers. The problems associated with the 'ramp-to-ramp' concept may be alleviated through better management of support equipment, elimination of individual organizational goals, a systematic view of fMS, and a modernization of the weapon systems in the forces of allied and friendly nations.