I concede it is a vexed subject with many possible “solutions”. But I’d say the current situation is driven by the perceived need for savings, without looking at efficiency and operational effectiveness. But I doubt if an accurate investment appraisal has been done to demonstrate actual savings.[/QUOTE]
Sorry but I cannot accept that. Without being specific I have been involved in a number of applications where the previous level 2 to level 4 maintenance policy was radicaly changed to inovative industry led support contracts.
On each the primary requirements was to produce a fully comprehensive cost of ownership model. From this the cost benefit of any change could be demonstrated. It was surprising how little the MoD actually knew about their true costs.
In each a basic requirement was a reliability improvement (in this case the engine). Year on year improvmens were contractualy committed to with penalty or profit payments.