Analysis of the Requisition Process and Readiness For F/A 18E/F integrated Readiness Support Team (FIRST) Program

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Analysis of the Requisition Process and Readiness For F/A 18E/F integrated Readiness Support Team (FIRST) Program

D. J. Noll / B. L. Simonson

Naval Aviation is beginning a transformation into a new era of logistics support. The beginning of a U.S. Navy/Industry teaming effort started with the U.S. Navy's F/A-18 E/F program. The new aircraft is supported through both standard military logistics programs and a brand new commercial logistics application known as F/A-18 E/F Integrated Readiness Support Teaming (FIRST). The non-traditional contract with Boeing is intended to outsource some maintenance, supply and inventory control for the new aircraft onto Boeing. The intended benefits behind the new concept include reduced costs, increased supply responsiveness and greater efficiency through commercial logistics applications. Promising increased aircraft readiness and seamless implementation, both Boeing and U.S. Navy representatives have great expectations for the new system. Our research investigates the impact FIRST is having on F/A-18 E/F Operational Availability (Ao) through an evaluation of Supply Response Times (SRT) and actual squadron Mission Capability Rates for the period of 01 April 2002 through 30 June 2002. Our results suggest that although repairable parts are currently delivered more quickly through the FIRST program, the contract measurement of SRT may not reflect any long the improvements in F/A-18 E/F readiness.