Will the ACE be Sustainable? T-AVB Issues and Concerns
Abstract
The value of the Aviation Logistics Support Ship (T-AVB) was amply demonstrated in OPERATION DESERT SHIELD/DESERT STORM. Unfortunately, in the afterglow of success, a loss of momentum has beset this valuable program raising many issues and concerns regarding the future of large scale Aviation Combat Element (ACE) sustainment. The T-AVB is absolutely critical to ACE sustainment in operations greater than 30 days or those encompassing a heavy sortie schedule. The increased doctrinal emphasis on rapid, sustainable forces "from the sea' has further highlighted the importance of the T-AVBs. While highly successful in the Gulf War, a stagnation of training, funding, modernization and a lack of program understanding has created an atmosphere of "benign neglect" which seriously guestions the ability of the T-AVBs to be ready to deploy in support of a contingency or war. For example, during the recent FY 96 Budget Review T-AVB modernization funding was decreased 58%, thereby stretching the modernization horizon to five years per ship. Considering that eight of the top ten critical upgrades are for safety/mission and the scheduled 2008 deactivation of the T-AVBs, this type of funding profile places the viability of the program in feopardy. The paucity of fullscale peacetime exercises, lack of standard operating procedures, personnel training and critical capability shortfalls also contribute to guestionable future readiness.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA493114
Entities
People
- Curtis J. Powell
Organizations
- Marine Corps University