Analysis of the Future Requirements for Materials Handling Equipment in the Military Airlift Command

摘要

The purpose of this study was to research and document the effects of a Materials Handling Equipment (MHE) shortfall with respect to current airlift issues and trends. The study had three basic objectives: (1) validate a previous Air University Center for Aerospace Doctrine, Research, and Education (CADRE) study, (2) research actions taken by Military Airlift command (MAC) with respect to current issues and trends, and (3) make new recommendations regarding the enhancement of MHE capability. The study found that the CADRE recommendations were to: (1) phase out TAC-loaders and K-loaders, (2) purchase specialized MHE to meet short-term requirements, (3) replace the current MHE fleet with a new type transporter/loader, (4) use experts from military staffs to determine specifications for new MHE, (5) use experts from civilian industry as consultants for MHE development, (6) centralize MHE management, and (7) use a formula to determine wartime MHE in-commission rates. Research and analysis showed that the CADRE recommendations were accepted and adopted by MAC and the United States Air Force.