Analysis of the Availability of Vehicle Nuclear Certification Information for Vehicle Maintenance Functions

摘要

The objective of this study was to analyze the amount of vehicle nuclear certification information available and to consolidate information pertinent to maintaining USAF vehicles under the guidelines of the Nuclear Weapons Surety Program into a single body of knowledge on which informed maintenance, policy, and inspection decisions could be made. The study examined Federal, DoD, and Air Force guidance as it pertained to the purchase, employment, and maintenance of noncombat delivery vehicles. Analysis of the guidance revealed the conceptual differences between Federal and DoD policy (emphasis on packaging versus emphasis on vehicle), and the comprehensiveness of the Air Force guidance at time of purchase versus the minimal employment and maintenance guidance to assure the long term certification of the vehicles. Recommendations included enhanced training for mechanics and increased involvement of maintenance management to facilitate assurance of the long term certification of vehicles.