Supply chain management model for modular or flexible optimally manned ships

Abstract

Implementation of modular or flexible design ships has introduced gaps in the United States Navy's logistics and sustainment operations regarding parts support. The Navy's supply chain management system must consider ship weight and space constraints, reduced onboard manning, and a new concept of shore-based support in order to permit efficient identification and assignment of spare parts to multiple distribution and maintenance locations to ensure ship mission availability. Following a systems engineering management process the team identified the problem, relevant stakeholders, and the system requirements. An analysis of alternatives was conducted on existing models to determine which one could be suitable for altering to meet the stakeholders' requirements. Modeling and simulation was used to simulate system operations. A model based systems engineering approach using CORE enabled requirements management and traceability, identification of system functionality, and development of system diagrams and architectural views. These techniques resulted in a conceptual and partial preliminary design of the supply chain management model. This model addresses the need for a parts sparing system in support of modular or flexible design ships. This research confirms the need for such a model and the project output provides a basis for continuation of system development.