3D Tech Data Modernization / Model Based Enterprise
Abstract
The three-dimensional (3D) Technical Data Modernization (TDM) / Model-Based Enterprise (MBE) includes efforts to improve and facilitate the exchange of engineering and logistics information among DLA, the Military Services, industry partners, and customers. This LOE includes the Military Unique Sustainment Technology (MUST), the Defense Logistics Information Research (DLIR), and the Emerging Requirements (EMR) portfolios. A primary focus of this LOE is to capitalize on the emerging “Model Based Enterprise” paradigm and the semantic web as an enabler to a logistics system that is smart and connected up and down the supply chain and across all DLA Customers and suppliers. A major focus is to transform DoD engineering data from two-dimensional paper-based products to three-dimensional computer-based models, and to develop processes to move from “electronic paper” (i.e. PDF files) to technical data files that can interface directly with industries’ engineering systems. The benefits include shorter product introduction cycles, lower set up-costs for parts production and more economical small batch production. Objectives for this LOE includes: 1.Transform technical data into modern, machine-usable, neutral formats: support DoD’s digital modernization efforts and provide significant readiness improvements. 2.Create a model-enabled knowledge base shared among DLA, the Military Services and industry: streamline the delivery of accurate requirements and high-quality material and end-items throughout the supply chain. 3.Quickly develop emergent and breakthrough technologies into military significant capabilities. The Military Unique Sustainment Technology (MUST) program addresses GAO Report 12-707 recommendations for DoD to establish a “knowledge-based approach” to define, communicate, and collaborate on military unique Combat Uniforms and Individual Equipment (CUIE) requirements. DLA has the responsibility to manage and maintain the technical requirements among the Services and the Defense Industrial Base. Currently there is no common environment for collaborating on new requirements among the stakeholders. The strategic objective of the DLA MUST program is to identify, develop, and adopt technologies that can significantly improve the joint process from transitioning new item development to DLA sustainment and operations. The Program focuses on technologies that will transform the military CUIE supply chain from an “electronic paper” (i.e. PDF/MS Word) based manual environment, into a knowledge-based model driven environment. This approach will result in seamlessly communicating military unique technical requirements throughout the end-to-end supply chain, leading toward a Model Based Enterprise. The Defense Logistics Information Research (DLIR) program seeks to improve the quality, security, and interoperability of logistics data to further enable and streamline DLA operations ultimately providing higher quality parts for enhanced weapons sustainment. Additionally, DLIR efforts are focusing on assisting Small and Midsize Manufacturers (SMMs) in their adoption of Industry 4.0 and workforce development in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). DLA must transform its business practices and methodologies as the data for weapons systems evolve from traditional formats and delivery methods (such as two-dimensional images and PDF formats) to newer, more innovative methods (such as three- dimensional solid models, object-oriented databases, service-oriented architecture (SOA) and Web 3C standards). This transformational shift for DLA is driven by the Model-Based Enterprise (MBE) approach, the way industry is delivering design and development data for weapon systems to the Military Services and the way the Military Services in turn manage and provide the data to DLA. The Military Services, DLA Logistics Operations, DLA Acquisition, DLA Tech/Quality, and DLA’s Major Subordinate Commands (MSCs) are key stakeholders in the DLIR initiatives to modernize the representation and delivery of weapons systems data.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Project
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2025
- Source ID
- TDM_0603680S_3_0400_PB_2025