Exploring the Mu1ti-Link Concept for DLA Requirements Determination.

Abstract

Abstract : The Joint Logistics System Center is developing the 'Multi-Link' system as an alternative that the Services and the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) can use to implement the readiness-based sparing concepts directed by the Office of the Secretary of Defense. This study considers the primary issues which arise if DLA were to use Multi-Link, and proposes a strategy for DLA. The key element of this strategy is that line replaceable units (LRUs) become the focus of DLA's weapon system program so that DLA will know the items that have the most direct impact on weapon system availability. Our research indicates that properly identifying the LRUs is crucial to using Multi-Link. DLA managed LRUs, cost much less than Service managed LRUs, so that a trade-off model like Multi-link calls for more stock of the cheaper DLA items, and less stock of the costlier Service items. However, since DLA consumable LRUs are more difficult to identify than Service LRUs, including DLA items in a Multi-Link trade-off must be done cautiously. Therefore, our recommended strategy is that DLA manage the weapon system LRU to higher wholesale performance goals than other items until the Services tell DLA which items to manage via Multi-Link.