Outsourcing and Privatization: An Essential USAF Strategy
Abstract
Outsourcing and privatization conversions represent an essential ingredient in shaping the United States Air Force's contribution in meeting the Nation's security needs of the future. Performed properly, outsourcing and privatization will reduce the support "tail" of the Air Force, at a substantially reduced cost, without negatively impacting the "teeth." The reason outsourcing and privatization is so important---money! A conscientious decision to fund operations and maintenance accounts to maintain readiness in light of a very high operations tempo has left some budget areas neglected. Procurement is one of those areas that has suffered especially hard in the most recent years. Our primary weapon systems such as the F-15C and even the F-16, continue to age and are in need of replacement as they near the end of their expected life cycles and as newer technologies make them comparatively less capable. The realities of long-lead time acquisitions necessitate wise procurement investments today to ensure a viable force to meet potential future threats. Therefore, unless the USAF invests in procurement now it stands to lose its global competitive weapons advantage. This paper will outline the motivation for outsourcing and privatization, describe the process for making it happen, and then outline some of the challenges facing the USAF today along with suggestions for process improvement. Outsourcing and privatization are really not new in the Air Force. in fact, they have been an integral part of the USAF since its inception. However, the current emphasis and projected scope are new.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA397066
Entities
People
- Stephen E. Newbold
Organizations
- Air War College