Condition-Based Maintenance Implementation and Potential in USMC Ground Transport

Abstract

The U.S. Marine Corps is transitioning to a Condition Based Maintenance Plus (CBM+) strategy, which detects subcomponent anomalies in advance through data analytics so maintenance can be conducted before failure occurs. We studied the implementation of CBM in industry, and identified common themes, including guidelines for identifying platforms most suited to CBM---in particular those that are critical and costly to replace. We studied people and processes for implementation of CBM+ and identified critical barriers, including orders and policies that delineate Marine Corps maintenance strategy and many legacy policies directly conflict with CBM+ strategies. Inspections heavily influence maintenance actions at the operational unit level and hinder implementation of CBM+ initiatives. Competing priorities reduce focus and capacity necessary to change maintenance strategies.

Our primary recommendations for improving CBM+ implementation are focused on aligning the effort with other enterprise priorities and aligning policies to permit and support innovation in implementing CBM+. Existing tools within the Marine Corps policy refinement process, such as the Total Life Cycle Management Cross Functional Team model, can be used to establish a CBM+ guiding coalition. We recommend creating an environment that fosters short-term wins through interim exceptions to policy and consolidating these gains in a single volumized maintenance order. The Field Supply and Maintenance Analysis Office can be utilized as a key contributor in communicating and enabling the CBM+ vision for Marine Corps maintenance through evaluating, training, and consolidating best practices of CBM+ processes. This further supports the current Commandant’s priority initiatives, both Force Design 2030 and Talent Management 2030. Reducing unnecessary maintenance actions and cross-functional training will support both retention and development of high-performing Marines.