Why the survivability onion should include Reliability, Availability, and Maintainability (RAM)

Abstract

Reliability, Availability, and Maintainability (RAM) and Survivability are both diverse disciplines that explore how a system will perform when placed within an operational environment. This Joint Applied Project provides a qualitative analysis of the interconnectivity of RAM and Survivability. It shows that an in-depth RAM analysis ensures military personnel are better protected throughout the life cycle. Methodologies for improving reliability and maintainability are also presented, to include physics of failure, highly accelerated life testing/highly accelerated stress screening, preventative maintenance determination and pit stop engineering. This analysis uses an Active Protection System (APS) to show that, when RAM is included in the Survivability Onion; both Survivability and RAM evaluations benefit; survivability assessments become more complete; RAM assessments are completed sooner; and ultimately, better systems are put into the hands of service members. As APS requirements are developed, it is important that they include the Materiel Availability Key Performance Parameter with associated Reliability and Ownership Cost Key System Attributes. When evaluating an APS (or any system) the independent evaluator team members need to integrate and discuss the impacts of the capabilities and limitations they observed with each other to ensure that the deficiencies are properly addressed in the reports.