Description of Driving Event:
NASA Budget Situation Impacts on Shuttle Logistics Capabilities
Lesson(s) Learned:
Long-term projections suggest increasing cannibalization rates, component repair turnaround times, and loss of repair capability for the Space Shuttle logistics and support programs.
Recommendation(s):
Take early remedial action to control this potential situation, such as maintaining sufficient spares and extending repair and overhaul capability.
Evidence of Recurrence Control Effectiveness:
NASA is closely monitoring logistics trends. The areas of emphasis stress long-term logistics support indicators, specifically backlog and repair turnaround. While an increase in repair turnaround time has been noted, vehicle support remains at the same high level. Budget reductions in past years have meant that fewer spares have been produced and less repairs were performed, but NASA and the contractor will continue to manage the process to maintain acceptable levels of support. Presently, logistics performance measurement data do not indicate any adverse trends in cannibalization rates. NASA has directed SFOC management to maintain an emphasis on logistics supportability during the transition of all contract responsibilities. The SFOC contractor has been directed to maintain key personnel with critical logistics skills to minimize transitional risks and provide continuity to Shuttle logistics support. In addition, SFOC is required to develop and submit original equipment manufacturer (OEM) contingency plans for responding to known and potential support issues at effected OEMs. All known supportability threats are tracked and evaluated to determine the associated risk and required actions for resolution. The SFOC has the appropriate processes in place to both monitor and respond to loss of subcontractor capability. The NASA Shuttle Logistics Depot (NSLD) has been certified to make some repairs where there has been a loss of critical supplier capability. The SFOC is also considering consolidating similar work at one vendor so that the NSLD is not the only repair agent.
Documents Related to Lesson:
N/A
Mission Directorate(s):
- Space Operations
- Exploration Systems
Additional Key Phrase(s):
- Administration/Organization
- Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel
- Ground Operations
- Logistics
Additional Info:
|
