Evaluating alternative network configurations and resource allocations for deployed Marine Corps aviation logistics units

Abstract

This thesis develops a model and performs analysis to estimate the operational effectiveness of the Marine Aviation Logistics Support Program II (MALSP II) under different system configurations and resource allocation policies. MALSP II is designed to protect the aviation logistics system from uncertain, possibly high variance, demand that could have a significant detrimental impact on the material readiness of deployed aircraft. Although an MALSP II pilot program has produced positive results since 2005, the overall design of the logistical support network has not yet been evaluated. We develop an inter-temporal network simulation model that measures the operational effectiveness of the network--with and without an additional level of supply called an Enroute Support Base--sing four inventory buffer sizing policies. We use two measures of effectiveness (MOE): PackUp Effectiveness and PartShort. Packup Effectiveness is the current metric used by the Marine Corps to evaluate aviation logistics performance in a deployed setting. It represents the percentage of demands satisfied on the day demanded. PartShort, which is a new MOE proposed in this thesis, represents the magnitude and duration of unsatisfied demands during a certain finite time horizon. For different levels of acceptable risk, we provide recommendations for network configurations and inventory buffer levels. These results can help operational planners improve the efficiency of available resources and maximize the effectiveness of logistical support to deployed bases.