Logistics support for Commercial Items and Non-Developmental Items case study : the P-3C Anti-Surface Warfare Improvement Program (AIP)

Abstract

The technological advances of the last decade have resulted in the commercial market leading the military market in many areas of technological development. As a result, the military depends on the commercial sector for increased capabilities in many systems. The Commercial Item and Non- Developmental item procurement strategy has been utilized to capitalize on this development. Using pre-existing systems to provide additional capabilities for military weapon systems results in a shorter procurement time and enables new technology to be used sooner. However, the logistics support of these items suffers since there is less time to test and plan for spare parts, training facilities, and support equipment. More assets are needed during the initial planning stages for these items to identify and produce the support structures needed for the life of the system. Finally, the shift of logistics support from an organic, military support system to a commercial support system has certain cost savings that are realized early in the program, but may have long-term effects in terms of security risk and overall life-cycle cost.