Executive Summary
This thesis explores using organizational modeling and simulation to reduce F414 engine maintenance time for F/A-18E/F aircraft at Naval Air Station Lemoore's Aircraft Intermediate Maintenance Division (AIMD). The study developed a baseline model of the AIMD's 400 Division and tested various interventions, such as paralleling tasks and combining positions, to identify organizational changes that could decrease maintenance cycle-time. Results indicated that process modifications, particularly paralleling administrative and maintenance tasks, significantly reduced throughput time.
Why It Matters
This document is crucial for defense analysts focusing on military readiness and logistics, as it demonstrates how organizational modeling can optimize critical aircraft maintenance processes, directly impacting operational availability and cost-efficiency of frontline assets.
Key Takeaways
- Organizational modeling and simulation can effectively identify bottlenecks and optimize complex military maintenance processes.
- Paralleling administrative and on-engine maintenance tasks significantly reduces F414 engine throughput time.
- Combining personnel positions and altering meeting frequencies can also contribute to decreased maintenance duration and improved efficiency.
- The study provides a validated methodology for improving maintenance operations within military aviation.
- The findings offer actionable insights for enhancing the readiness of F/A-18E/F squadrons by streamlining engine repair.
- The research highlights the potential of simulation tools like Virtual Design Team (VDT) for defense logistics and organizational design.
Strategic Relevance
Optimizing maintenance processes for critical military hardware like the F414 engine directly enhances fleet readiness and operational availability of F/A-18E/F aircraft. This contributes to strategic deterrence and power projection capabilities by ensuring assets are deployable and mission-ready, while also improving cost-efficiency in defense logistics.