The war on aging aircraft: one battle down, many to go

0 Comments | Naval Aviation News, July-August, 2002 | by John Milliman

That might sound easy, but it required a detailed engineering analysis of the microcircuits involved by AAIPT engineer Dave Kayser. "I had to look at the design application, operating environment and configuration failure modes just to identify the root cause and define the problem," he explained. "Then I had to research the available options, remembering that I wasn't allowed to do any major redesigns. Finally, I had to get the parts and prove it." And Kayser isn't quite finished. Doing the whole process once isn't enough, because there are so many configurations in use.

With a few successes soon to be fielded, the AAIPT still has a long war ahead of it that is segmented into five major thrust areas: avionics, corrosion, wiring, dynamic components and engines. "We've just started to scratch the surface," Ernst said, and "begun searching for the common problems in other areas in tandem with our JCAA partners. It's going to require the same focus and discipline to identify, develop and field affordable solutions to keep our legacy warriors viable and affordable--and not on the backs of our maintainers."

Ernst likens the team's efforts to the buildup that led to success in WW II. "We're still doing this as guerilla warfare. We snipe at technology applications from behind rocks. We've got to do this systematically so all the platforms can benefit." He sees the teaming opportunities through the JCAA as ultimately winning the war on aging aircraft, but not yet. "Victory in WW II came after extensive mobilization and buildup of forces, materiel and strategy."

Similarly, fighting the effects of aging aircraft isn't going to be over anytime soon. "We're not quite ready to sail into Tokyo Bay and sign anything just yet," Ernst concluded. "We're still at Guadalcanal. But we're making progress."

John Milliman is AAIPT public affairs officer.