Fiscal Year 2007 Research Agenda

Project AIR FORCE-Wide Research

Renewing the Force: A Methodology for Planning Investments in Force Modernization, Modification and Replacement

The objective of this continuing effort is to dynamically integrate understanding and analysis of various attributes of weapon systems in order to develop an analytic method that will reasonably forecast when weapon systems need to be replaced in the broadest sense, to include modifications/upgrades prior to a total fleet replacement. The initial point is a capability requirement, which determines the original buy and its characteristics. The need to upgrade and/or replace components or entire systems is affected by the age of the system and the use it is put to, in order to produce various capabilities. Aircraft availability, weapon system performance in all of its missions, cost to maintain, flight safety, etc., all change throughout the life of a weapon system and must be considered in the rolling decision regarding whether to modify or to replace.

Sponsor: AF/CV
Project Leader: Micheal Kennedy

Status and Risk Assessments for Aging Aircraft

This effort would build upon the AoA that PAF completed in FY06, factoring in important new information received after the August 2005 cut-off date for the AoA's final report. Recent developments include the Fleet Viability Board's assessment and an update from the KC-135 system program office that includes the ongoing overhaul of the flight control surfaces that was not included in the AoA. This investigation will also expand from the AoAís focus on the KC-135, to consider other fleets sharing similar aging vulnerabilities to the KC-135, including the 7000 series aluminum with the T6 temper (RC-135, E-3, E-8, C-5, C-130H), and the KC-10, given that it is currently the unique backup to the KC-135. The study team will collaborate with the Fleet Viability Board, the Scientific Advisory Board and the AF Chief Scientist to develop a consistent process that the AF could use to judge the technical risk of extended life. This might include increasing the staff and authority of the Fleet Viability Board to acquire information directly from contractors and others. It also might include a role for the Chief Scientist and the SAB in overseeing the consistent formation of technical judgments across fleets to provide long-range planning a source of consistent data that is objective, independent and balanced.

Sponsor: SAF/AQ; AF/A8
Project Leader: Jean Gebman

Managing and Sustaining a Low-Observable Force

The new strategy places great emphasis on support to land forces in GWOT operations while at the same time requiring the capability to operate in MCOs with significantly more severe threats. This study will address these survivability issues at the operational and tactical levels to include TTPs and investments in technology where required. In addition, this research team will continue to follow the F/A-22 as it becomes operational with attention focused on the interaction of maintenance, operations and infrastructure.

Sponsor: SAF/AQ; ACC/A3; A4
Project Leader: Natalie Crawford

USAF Test and Evaluation Infrastructure Assessment

The purpose of this effort is to conduct two separate analyses of USAF Test and Evaluation (T&E): 1) A cost-benefit analysis of an Air Force Material Command (AFMC) PBD720 proposal to consolidate and divest certain USAF T&E capabilities; and 2) An analysis to answer the CSAF´s questions related to which facilities and capabilities are necessary to accomplish AF T&E.

Sponsor: AF/TE; AFMC/A3
Project Leader: Mike Thirtle