Northstar

Challenge

The USAF and the prime contractor Northrop Grumman needed integrated logistics lifecycle and acquisition support to Air Force Space Command/A4SY for Offensive Counter Space (OCS), Defensive Counter Space (DCS) and Command and Control (C2) space control systems.

Solution

DRC provides logistics subject matter expertise and staff support (corporate knowledge) on existing and future space control mission logistics programs and requirements. DRC implements all ten elements and fundamentals of logistics to ensure efficient and effective acquisition, sustainment, and decommissioning of OCS/DCS in accordance with the Total Life Cycle Systems Management (TLCSM) and Performance Based Logistics (PBL) philosophy. We assist HQ AFSPC by participating in acquisition oversight and implementing the JCIDS acquisition and sustainment model. DRC conducted analysis and review of key acquisition documents and process including logistics elements contained in Initial Capability Documents (ICD), Capabilities Development Documents (CDD), enabling concepts, operations and support plans, and system specifications to ensure compliance with established logistics support concepts and capabilities per CJCSI 3170.01E. We established and maintained communications and staff coordination with internal agencies and SMC acquisition and sustainment specialists (including development contractors) to ensure logistics issues and requirements are identified and accurately conveyed. We developed and implemented sustainment and support policies, plans, and programs to maximize supportability, sustainability, reliability, maintainability, and combat readiness. DRC’s approach to system acquisition and sustainment training support combined knowledge of all active, projected, and transitioning OCS/DCS systems with program maintenance training expertise. We ensured the developer’s incorporation of vendor and user training requirements into effective user training was compliant with the Air Force Instructional System Development (ISD) (AFMAN 36-2235) process. Our training support ensured operational safety and a clear understanding of equipment setup, operation, dismantling, and transportability to maximize warfighter mission support.

Benefits/Achievements

We garnered positive feedback during many program reviews for accuracy and adequacy of analysis, recommendations, products and process provided to the Government. DRC's logistics planning processes have been successfully demonstrated multiple times during the notionally-tasked SATCOM Interference Response System (SIRS) deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where we saved HQ AFSPC more than $235K in transportation costs.

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