Alteration Installation Teams: Breaking the Paradigm

Abstract

ABSTRACT Alteration Installation Teams (AITs) are government supervised and contractor manned “Tiger” teams which install Ship Alterations (SHIPALTs) aboard U.S. Navy ships, submarines, and surface craft. With the decrease in the Department of Defense (DoD) budget and corresponding decrease in modernization funding, AITs have become the installer of choice due to perceived cost savings by Ship Program Managers and Type Commanders responsible for authorizing and funding the modernization effort. AIT installed SHIPALTs observed by the Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion, and Repair (SUPSHIP) over a 24 month period had been plagued by poor quality workmanship, unsafe work practices, and lack of documentation and accountability. This paper compares AIT installed SHIPALTs with those accomplished by Master Ship Repair (MSR) Agreement holders. Product provided core values and a product analysis were compared for each method of accomplishment. A strong case is presented to challenge the perceptions that AIT installed SHIPALTs are more cost effective than those of the MSR contractor. In light of the current atmosphere of change within DoD and the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), the recommendations presented to address AIT issues are closely aligned with 3 of the Strategic Initiatives of VADM Sterner's Strategic Plan for taking NAVSEA into the 21st century.