Examination of E-3 AWACS Readiness Spares Kit Adequacy During Operation Allied Force

摘要

This report reviews the critical importance of E-3 aircraft in today's air operations, examines the supply concept for deployed aircraft packages, and assesses the adequacy of deployed E-3 AWACS readiness spares kits during Operation ALLIED FORCE. Also, FY 1999 summary readiness indicator statistics for the E-3 fleet, at different deployed locations and home station, before, during, and after ALLIED FORCE are presented. Recent E-3 spares shortages in other deployed operations have prompted senior leadership to consider spares adequacy issues force wide. Additionally, the annual E-3 RSP review process is considered, with a focus on understanding how the new concept of 'agile logistics' and depot 'EXPRESS' initiatives have impacted E-3 readiness. Cost trends in E-3 RSP kit configuration are presented, along with a discussion of various recent 'top-ten' MICAP problem parts. The author concludes that extraordinarily high E-3 mission capable rates achieved during the 78-day ALLIED FORCE air operation were primarily due to opportune logistical support from the NATO E-3 base of Geilenkirchen rather than deployed E-3 RSPs. During the conflict's limited timeframe, nearly 200 reparable parts were borrowed from our NATO allies to solve E-3 MICAP situations as initial communication and logistical delays hampered U.S. resupply efforts. Finally, the author observes that recent initiatives to increase spares inventories through increased funding are likely to raise E-3 mission capable rates.