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This comprehensive overview by Maj. Gen. David Eichhorn delves into the challenges and methods of transitioning operational weapons systems within the Air Force Flight Test Center (AFFTC). Key discussions include rapid fielding, independent assessments, design accountability, and life cycle cost control, emphasizing the importance of rigorous testing. The presentation explores the implications of "pay me now or pay me later" in program development and advocates for a disciplined approach to learning and adapting. It highlights the critical significance of operational relevance and performance accountability.
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Transitioning Operational Weapons Systems:Proof by Trial Maj Gen David Eichhorn Commander, AFFTC 14 September 2009
Overview • Rapid fielding & ACTDs • Blessing or a curse? • DT&E early independent assessment post MS B • Schedule absorption • Weapon system “affordability” • Clear accountability in design Life Cycle Cost Control in Jeopardy!
Pay Me Now… Pay Me Later “I would gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger Today” Wpn System` ACTDs are a “pay me later”
Proof by TrialIndependent Assessment • Operationally relevant • Requirements lead to specifications • Specs hold the contractor accountable • Dreamware/ Brochure hype • Life Cycle Cost • Performance tradeoffs considered • Reliability, maintainability -- addressed early • Otherwise retrofit, workarounds, etc. SATISFACTION GUARANTEED OR YOUR MONEY BACK Your One Last Chance
Challenge: Background Matters!Accountability in Performance Not all solutions are compatible!
Proof by Trial Systems Under Test FIGHTERS TANKERS AIRLIFT/AIR DROP BOMBERS UAV / UCAV AIRBORNE LASER HYPERSONIC FLIGHT TEST
308,000 Acres • 29,000 Ft Concrete Runways • 59 Miles Lakebed Runways • 11.7M Sq Ft Ramp Space • 573 Miles Roads • 270 Miles Electrical Lines • 194 Miles Wastewater Lines • 72 Miles Natural Gas Lines AFFTC FootprintRecovery is Enhanced Edwards AFB, CA • 3,800 Structures • 9.5M Sq Ft Facility Space • 1M Sq Ft in 19 Hangars • 1.8M Sq Ft Technical Support Space • Population – 12,949 • AF Active Duty – 1,701 • NASA & AFRL - 725 • Civilians – 3,471 • Associates & NAF - 282 • Contractors – 4,651 • Dependants – 1,998 • Reservists – 121
SummaryAcquisition Excellence • Independent Technical Assessments • Government experts • Proven methodology • By definition we never know everything at the start of a program • Disciplined learning • Disciplined reaction • Test, or proof by trial, is a necessary pain