Operational Readiness Research Articles

Novel Selective Maintenance Approach to Ensure Mission Reliability of Armored Vehicles Considering Multiple Deployment Roles in Distinct Operating Profiles

Given the gravity of the element of surprise in modern warfare, military forces worldwide are constantly attempting to achieve and maintain operational readiness of their critical military equipment. Selective Maintenance (SM) is considered an effective approach for achieving system operational readiness. Effective use of the SM approach for military equipment requires considering various military-specific factors such as multiple deployment roles, distinct operating profiles, human reliability, and the use of refurbished or non-OEM spares. This makes the SM approach for military systems very challenging. This paper presents an approach that formulates the SM problem intending to achieve and maintain the required level of operational readiness for predefined future missions from a military viewpoint. This approach employs a novel methodology that estimates the mission reliability of military equipment while modeling the combined impact of several important military-specific factors. This complex yet necessary integration of various military-specific factors makes the present approach accurate and apt to the exact modus operandi of the armed forces. The developed approach is demonstrated for the maintenance of armored vehicles deployed on distinct missions under different operating conditions. Numerical investigations illustrate the efficacy of the present approach and highlight its advantages over the conventional maintenance approach.

Biomotor Abilities for Law Enforcement Officer Readiness

Law enforcement officers (LEOs) must maintain a certain level of physical fitness to perform occupational tasks successfully. Because of the wide variation among operators, there does not appear to be a standard fitness test battery that is appropriate to assess occupational fitness for different groups of law enforcement officers. Therefore, multi-faceted fitness assessments are important to evaluate tactical personnel’s various essential fitness components, which are often unique to each environment. Fitness standards and training protocols must be developed for each law enforcement agency and customised to the specific audience. This article aims to systematically review the relevant literature to identify biomotor abilities associated with occupational physical ability. This study examined the results of 17 international studies to ultimately synthesise information that (i) aids in the selection of the most used biomotor abilities and occupational physical abilities for LEOs and (ii) serves as a starting point for the development of occupational physical abilities assessment protocols. In conclusion, this study underscores the complex and diverse physical demands on LEOs, advocating for tailored fitness programs and policy reforms to enhance their operational readiness and long-term health.

In response to global climate change goals, exploring the development strategy for decarbonizing the shipping industry in Taiwan

Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Methane (CH4), Nitrous Oxide (N2O), and other gases are all greenhouse gases. However, the most significant contributor to climate change is CO2. Maritime decarbonization is a complex challenge with multiple pathways at different technological and operational readiness levels. As a concept, green shipping corridors are similar to special economic zones at sea. They provide a platform for stakeholders in the value chain to collaborate and implement new technologies and business models on a large scale. The most significant advantage of such an initiative is to help diverse and fragmented industries align and diversify their collective risks. The article employed a comparative literature analysis and interviewed relevant stakeholders to derive its conclusions. Based on this analysis, it advocates for taking action and implementing these measures by engaging stakeholders. Critical decisions concerning the green components of shipping corridors revolve around viable fuel pathways, policies and regulations, customer demands, and cross-value chain collaboration.

Determination of a total and partial operational readiness for a complex technical system on the example of a mobile medical module

The article presents a proposal for a method to determine a total and partial operational readiness for a mobile medical module as a complex technical system. A new approach to determine the readiness factor characterizing the functional readiness of a complex technical system is proposed as parameter not only for the system in a state of full usability, but also in states of partial usability enabling the performance of selected functions required by the user. The communication system is discussed as the main system determining the operation of the mobile medical module. Markov chain modeling (expanded into semi-Markov chains) was used to determine the value of the readiness factor of this system. Due to the structural complexity of the mobile medical module (carrier platform, drive, basic and additional avionics equipment and basic and extended medical equipment), a total and partial operational readiness can be determined for a simple object (in a simplified version as full) or a complex system (as a total and partial).

Measuring operational cognitive readiness of military personnel using Joint Theater Level Simulation System (JTLS)

Cognitive Readiness refers to military personnel who are cognitively ready to perform effective and efficient roles in military operations with the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs). These KSAs are essential for critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making. Military personnel at each level in the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) must be cognitively ready for military deployment. To enhance the cognitive readiness of military personnel at the operational level, a training design—scenario-based training (SBT) has been developed by the Malaysian Armed Forces Staff College (MAFSC) to develop cognitive readiness for course participants (CPs) who attended staff courses. Joint Theater Level Simulation (JTLS) has been used to analyze the Line of Operation (LOO) that has been produced by the course participant. The results show that SBT affected the development of cognitive readiness to prepare military personnel at the operational level through Joint Warfare environment exercises and tested by Modeling and Simulation (M&S).

Refining Sugar Production Forecasts: Analyzing Forecasting Techniques for Operational Precision

This study compares the efficacy of moving averages and double exponential smoothing (Holt's method) in predicting sugar production, using historical data. Results reveal that double exponential smoothing outperforms moving averages, offering more accurate forecasts, particularly in contexts requiring responsiveness to data trends. These findings hold significant implications for enhancing operational efficiency and readiness in the sugar industry, guiding maintenance scheduling and production target achievement. Highlights: Double exponential smoothing (Holt's method) surpasses moving averages in accuracy. Importance of forecasting in operational efficiency and maintenance scheduling. Applicability of forecasting techniques in the sugar industry context. Keywords: Forecasting, Moving Average, Sugar Production

Knee Joint Preservation in Tactical Athletes: A Comprehensive Approach Based upon Lesion Location and Restoration of the Osteochondral Unit.

The unique physical demands of tactical athletes put immense stress on the knee joint, making these individuals susceptible to injury. In order to ensure operational readiness, management options must restore and preserve the native architecture and minimize downtime, while optimizing functionality. Osteochondral lesions (OCL) of the knee have long been acknowledged as significant sources of knee pain and functional deficits. The management of OCL is predicated on certain injury characteristics, including lesion location and the extent of subchondral disease. Techniques such as marrow stimulation, allograft and autologous chondrocyte implantation are examined in detail, with a focus on their application and suitability in tactical athlete populations. Moreover, the restoration of the osteochondral unit (OCU) is highlighted as a central aspect of knee joint preservation. The discussion encompasses the biomechanical considerations and outcomes associated with various cartilage restoration techniques. Factors influencing procedure selection, including lesion size, location, and patient-specific variables, are thoroughly examined. Additionally, the review underscores the critical role of post-operative rehabilitation and conditioning programs in optimizing outcomes. Strengthening the surrounding musculature, enhancing joint stability, and refining movement patterns are paramount in facilitating the successful integration of preservation procedures. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive resource for surgeons, engineers, and sports medicine practitioners engaged in the care of tactical athletes and the field of cartilage restoration. The integration of advanced preservation techniques and tailored rehabilitation protocols offers a promising avenue for sustaining knee joint health and function in this demanding population.

OPERATIONAL READINESS AND ASSURANCE (OR&A) IN ASSET INTEGRITY: STRATEGIES FOR EXCELLENCE IN FACILITY MANAGEMENT

Operational readiness and assurance (OR&A) play a pivotal role in ensuring the integrity and reliability of assets within the oil and gas sector. This review explores methodologies and best practices aimed at achieving excellence in facility management, with a focus on meticulous operational readiness and assurance within the asset integrity framework. The review delves into the critical importance of OR&A in mitigating operational risks, enhancing safety, and maximizing asset performance throughout their lifecycle. It examines the key components of effective facility management, including maintenance planning, risk assessment, compliance management, and emergency preparedness. Furthermore, the review highlights the methodologies and strategies employed to ensure operational readiness and assurance, emphasizing the significance of proactive maintenance, robust inspection protocols, and data-driven decision-making. It discusses the role of advanced technologies such as predictive analytics, condition monitoring systems, and digital twins in enhancing operational efficiency and asset reliability. Moreover, the review underscores the importance of a holistic approach to facility management, encompassing people, processes, and technology. It examines case studies and industry examples that demonstrate successful implementation of OR&A strategies, showcasing tangible benefits such as improved uptime, reduced downtime, and optimized resource utilization. Overall, this review underscores the critical role of operational readiness and assurance in asset integrity management within the oil and gas sector. By adopting meticulous facility management practices and leveraging advanced technologies, organizations can enhance operational excellence, mitigate risks, and achieve sustainable performance across their asset portfolios.
 Keywords: OR&A, Asset Integrity, Strategies, Excellence, Facility Management.

Low Contrast Challenge and Limitations of Thermal Drones in Maritime Search and Rescue—Pilot Study

This paper analyses the efficiency of thermal infrared (TIR) systems during night search operations under specific weather conditions, with a focus on determining the maximum operating altitude of the drone. The drone used in the research (DJI Matrice 210 V2) is equipped with a thermal camera, in a scenario involving maritime search and rescue (SAR) operation, i.e., person detection at sea with or without a survival suit. By capturing images from different altitudes and measuring key atmospheric and maritime parameters, essential data are obtained for defining optimal DRI parameters (detection, recognition, and identification) within the existing on-site meteorological conditions. This research contributes to more accurate life-saving procedures, underlining the importance of uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) technology for maritime SAR. It is expected that the presented model will improve operational readiness for SAR operations in areas with similar climatic profiles. The research results indicate the need to conduct similar research in different climatic conditions to improve the application of the TIR system in maritime SAR operations.

The Value of Strength as a Predictor of Musculoskeletal Injury in Canadian Armed Forces Basic Infantry Candidates.

Musculoskeletal injuries (MSKI) impact military organizations by threatening their operational readiness, warranting investigation into relevant factors to inform risk reduction strategies. While several self-reported and physical performance measures have been associated with MSKI among military personnel, few have been validated and none have been reported in Canadian basic infantry candidates. The purpose of this study was to investigate associations between self-reported and physical performance measures and MSKI, and determine their validity as predictors of MSKI, in Canadian basic infantry candidates. This was a planned secondary analysis of a study tracking MSKI at a basic infantry training facility in Ontario, Canada approved by Defence Research & Development Canada. Before the basic infantry training, consenting candidates completed a baseline testing session including self-reported questionnaires, measures of anthropometry, and physical performance previously associated with MSKI (ankle dorsiflexion test, Y-Balance Test, Isometric Mid-Thigh Pull, and the Fitness for Operational Requirements of CAF Employment (FORCE) evaluation). All MSKI reported by candidates were diagnosed by licensed healthcare providers. From a total sample of 129 candidates, 76% (n = 98) were used to determine any associations between baseline testing variables and MSKI and to develop a predictive model (Development Sample), while 24% (n = 33) were used to offer preliminary validation of the same predictive model (Validation Sample). The binary logistic regression and independent sample t-testing determined independent associations with MSKI in the Development Sample. All continuous variables and dichotomous variables previously associated with MSKI risk (Smoker Yes/No, previous history of MSKI, and physical inactivity) were entered into a backward stepwise logistic regression analysis to assess the predictive association with MSKI incidence in the Development Sample. The regression model was then applied to the Validation Sample. A total of 35 MSKI were diagnosed by Health Services Centre staff. The majority of the MSKI were acute (63%), sustained to the hip, knee, and ankle (74%). The most common diagnoses were strains and sprains (71%). Uninjured participants performed significantly better on the Relative Isometric Mid-Thigh Pull, FORCE 20 mR, FORCE ILS, and FORCE Estimated VO2peak compared to injured participants. Logistic regression analysis showed that the only variable with significant independent association with diagnosed MSKI incidence was self-reported previous history of MSKI. However, the backward stepwise logistic regression analysis retained self-reported previous history of MSKI, FORCE SBD, FORCE Estimated VO2peak, and Isometric Mid-Thigh Pull Peak Force as predictors of MKSI. The logistic regression model including these variables could predict MSKI with an accuracy of 79% in the Development Sample and 67% in the Validation Sample. This study provides preliminary support for the value of measures of absolute muscular strength and cardiorespiratory fitness as predictors of MSKI in Canadian basic infantry candidates. Given the associations between physical performance measures and MSKI, and their necessity during occupational tasks, it is recommended that Canadian basic infantry training facilities integrate resistance training with external loads to best prepare their candidates to meet their occupational demands and potentially minimize MSKI. Further investigations to confirm the predictive capacity of these variables in a larger sample across additional facilities are warranted.

Treatment of Tendon Injuries in the Servicemember Population across the Spectrum of Pathology: From Exosomes to Bioinductive Scaffolds.

Tendon injuries in military servicemembers are one of the most commonly treated nonbattle musculoskeletal injuries (NBMSKIs). Commonly the result of demanding physical training, repetitive loading, and frequent exposures to austere conditions, tendon injuries represent a conspicuous threat to operational readiness. Tendon healing involves a complex sequence between stages of inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling cycles, but the regenerated tissue can be biomechanically inferior to the native tendon. Chemical and mechanical signaling pathways aid tendon healing by employing growth factors, cytokines, and inflammatory responses. Exosome-based therapy, particularly using adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs), offers a prominent cell-free treatment, promoting tendon repair and altering mRNA expression. However, each of these approaches is not without limitations. Future advances in tendon tissue engineering involving magnetic stimulation and gene therapy offer non-invasive, targeted approaches for improved tissue engineering. Ongoing research aims to translate these therapies into effective clinical solutions capable of maximizing operational readiness and warfighter lethality.

Feeling the Strain: Understanding the Relationship between Stress and Physical Activity in Members of the Royal Canadian Navy.

Research finds that experiencing psychological stress can be associated with engaging in less physical activity, a critical contributor to operational readiness and overall health and well-being. As navy personnel tend to engage in lower levels of physical activity than other military personnel, the purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between stress and physical activity in the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) and identify moderators of this relationship. Data for this study were obtained from an electronic workplace well-being survey administered to a stratified random sample of 930 members in hard sea occupations managed by the RCN. Multivariable logistic regressions examined the associations between indicators of stress (e.g., job stress, burnout, work-life conflict, and psychological distress) and physical activity engagement; the moderating effects of demographic/military characteristics and health status (e.g., rank, gender, sailing status, general health status, and body mass index [BMI]) were examined. Navy personnel who were married or in common-law relationships and those who reported poorer overall health were less likely to be physically active. Navy personnel with lower psychological distress were more likely be active (P = .03); however, direct associations with other indicators of stress were not significant. BMI was the only significant moderator of the relationship between stress and physical activity. Specifically, for members classified as obese, higher levels of burnout and work-life conflict were associated with being more physically active. Conversely, nonobese members with elevated burnout reported less physical activity. The findings of this study support a complex relationship between experiencing stress and engaging in physical activity, which showed varying patterns based on BMI classification. Although the cross-sectional nature of the data precludes any inferences about the direction of these effects, the results suggest that some members of the RCN are more at risk of experiencing decrements in physical activity. Future research should examine the types of physical activity supports and incentives that are needed to ensure that navy personnel derive the benefits of an active lifestyle, especially in times of stress.

From Decision-Making to Soldier Augmentation: How AI is Enhancing Military Capabilities

Abstract: The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into military operations signifies a revolutionary shift in the conduct and strategy of modern warfare. This paper, authored by MAJ Jody Holeton, provides an in-depth analysis of the multifaceted role of AI in enhancing the operational capabilities of the U.S. Army. The study begins with an introduction to the evolving landscape of AI in military domains, emphasizing the need for advanced technologies in the face of rapidly changing combat environments and the pursuit of strategic superiority. The paper delves into the critical role of AI in enhancing decision-making processes, highlighting projects like Maven which utilize AI for real-time intelligence analysis and predictive analytics. The focus then shifts to predictive maintenance, using examples like the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter to demonstrate how AI improves equipment reliability and operational readiness

A closer look at the international health regulations capacities in Lebanon: a mixed method study

BackgroundLebanon ratified the International Health Regulations (IHR) (2005) in 2007, and since then, it has been facing complex political deadlocks, financial deterioration, and infectious disease emergencies. We aimed to understand the IHR capacities’ scores of Lebanon in comparison to other countries, the IHR milestones and activities in Lebanon, the challenges of maintaining the IHR capacities, the refugee crisis's impact on the development of these capacities; and the possible recommendations to support the IHR performance in Lebanon.MethodsWe used a mixed-method design. The study combined the use of secondary data analysis of the 2020 State Party Self-Assessment Annual Report (SPAR) submissions and qualitative design using semi-structured interviews with key informants. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine key informants. The analysis of the data generated was based on inductive thematic analysis.ResultsAccording to SPAR, Lebanon had levels of 4 out of 5 (≤ 80%) in 2020 in the prevention, detection, response, enabling functions, and operational readiness capacities, pertaining that the country was functionally capable of dealing with various events at the national and subnational levels. Lebanon scored more than its neighboring countries, Syria, and Jordan, which have similar contexts of economic crises, emergencies, and refugee waves. Despite this high level of commitment to meeting IHR capacities, the qualitative findings demonstrated several gaps in IHR performance as resource shortage, governance, and political challenges. The study also showed contradictory results regarding the impact of refugees on IHR capacities. Some key informants agreed that the Syrian crisis had a positive impact, while others suggested the opposite. Whether refugees interfere with IHR development is still an area that needs further investigation.ConclusionThe study shows that urgent interventions are needed to strengthen the implementation of the IHR capacities in Lebanon. The study recommends 1) reconsidering the weight given to IHR capacities; 2) promoting governance to strengthen IHR compliance; 3) strengthening the multisectoral coordination mechanisms; 4) reinforcing risk communication strategies constantly; 5) mobilizing and advancing human resources at the central and sub-national levels; 6) ensuring sustainable financing; 7) integrating refugees and displaced persons in IHR framework and its assessment tools; 8) acknowledging risk mapping as a pre-requisite to a successful response; and 9) strengthening research on IHR capacities in Lebanon.

A Roadmap to Developing a Population-Based Colorectal Cancer Screening Program in Oman

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major public health problem worldwide, as it is the third most common disease and the second leading cause of cancer-related fatalities. In recent years, Oman, like many other countries, has seen an epidemiological shift from communicable diseases to noncommunicable diseases, including colorectal cancer, necessitating comprehensive planning to address the root cause of the problem as well as a comprehensive screening program to detect diseases at an early stage and thus improve health outcomes. Colorectal cancer is the second most frequent cancer in Oman, with the highest mortality rate, inflicting considerable public health and economic consequences; nevertheless, there is no population-based CRC screening programme in place to minimise the disease's incidence, mortality, and severe health outcomes. This review highlights the epidemiology of colorectal cancer in Oman, the Wilson and Junger criteria, operational readiness, and recommendations for implementing a population-based colorectal cancer screening program.

Assessing operational readiness: Regulatory landscape and compliance in zimbabwe for medical devices and in vitro diagnostic medical devices.

The regulation of medical devices and In Vitro Diagnostic (IVD) medical devices have lagged significantly, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Disparities in regulating medical and IVD medical devices in Africa are below the global average. This may translate to poor access to quality-assured medical and IVD devices, resulting in undesirable health outcomes. Operational readiness to regulate medical and IVD devices at the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) was assessed. The aim was to determine the strengths and gaps and propose an action plan that can be monitored and evaluated to assess progress over time. We used the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Benchmarking Tool for medical devices and IVDs methodology to evaluate regulatory oversight of these products. Purposive sampling was used for data collection using researcher-administered global benchmarking tool factsheets and document reviews to evaluate the implementation of the regulatory functions. The regulatory functions assessed were the National Regulatory System, Registration and Market Authorization, Vigilance, Market Surveillance and Control, Licensing Establishment, Regulatory Inspection, Laboratory Testing, and Clinical Trials Oversight. The MCAZ attained maturity level 1, with a regulatory system score of 79%, registration and market authorization 44%, vigilance 27%, market surveillance and control 40%, licensing establishment 62%, regulatory inspection 68%, laboratory testing 88%, and clinical trials 18%. Condoms and gloves were the only regulated medical devices in Zimbabwe. IVDs were not regulated by the MCAZ. This review showed that the regulatory system is not robust, fit for purpose, responsive, transparent, or proportionate to the risk classification of medical devices and IVDs. It is crucial to amend the Medicines and Allied Substance Control Act to incorporate the definition and classification of medical devices and IVDs, regulatory authority establishment, licensing and registration, quality management system, conformity assessment, post-market surveillance, labeling and instructions for use, capacity building and training, and international harmonization.

Fast and thermal neutron spectrum dosimetry measurements in the Advanced Test Reactor large-B and small-l positions following the sixth core internals change-out

The Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) has a wide variety of irradiation positions that have had experiments that were developed by users from around the world. Most experiment irradiations rely on thoroughly benchmarked numerical models. However, some irradiation positions in ATR are not as well- characterized and are complicated by spectral perturbations from control cylinder orientation. The “small I” and “large-B” irradiation positions are located nearby control cylinders and suffer from these flux perturbations from control cylinder orientations that change during an irradiation cycle to maintain the desired core power distribution. Models predicted that these types of position would exhibit both spectral shifts and amplitude changes in neutron flux, but few measurements have been conducted to benchmark these predictions. Recently, requalification testing was performed to confirm the operational readiness of the ATR following the completion of the Core Internals Change-out (CIC). These tests provided a unique opportunity to validate the analytical methods used to simulate the ATR because nearly all components in the reactor were in a clean as-built state, significantly reducing modelling uncertainties. One subset of the testing included characterization of the fast and thermal neutron flux in the “small-I” and “large-B” positions using silver, cobalt, and nickel neutron dosimetry. In contrast to typical irradiation cycles, the control cylinders were held in position during the post-CIC nuclear testing. The specific activity of these dosimeter wires was measured following two low-power tests with different control cylinder positions.

Etiology and Epidemiology of Travelers' Diarrhea among US Military and Adult Travelers, 2018-2023.

Travelers' diarrhea has a high incidence rate among deployed US military personnel and can hinder operational readiness. The Global Travelers' Diarrhea study is a US Department of Defense--funded multisite surveillance effort to investigate the etiology and epidemiology of travelers' diarrhea. During 2018-2023, we enrolled 512 participants at partner institutions in 6 countries: Djibouti, Georgia, Egypt, Honduras, Nepal, and Peru. Harmonized laboratory methods conducted at each partner institution identified >1 pathogens, including Escherichia coli (67%-82%), norovirus (4%-29%), and Campylobacter jejuni (2%-20%), in 403 (79%) cases. Among cases, 79.7% were single infections, 19.6% were double infections, and 0.7% were triple infections. The most common enterotoxigenic E. coli colonization factors identified were CS3 (25%) and CS21 (25%), followed by CS2 (18%) and CS6 (15%). These data can inform best treatment practices for travelers' diarrhea and support US military health readiness.

COVID-19 Publications : Summary of Abstracts

As we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is necessary to critically reflect on and review the phenomenon that took millions of lives worldwide, overwhelmed medical capabilities, and devastated communities. The negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic include an economic downturn, disruption of societal functioning, and degradation of operational readiness. We can see that the destabilizing effects of pandemics pose threats to regional, multinational, and organizational security. Fortunately, pandemics are historically infrequent but with time, memories and clarity fade. We recognize that without a concerted, deliberate effort to preserve the knowledge we have gained, it will be lost. Looking forward, many of the lessons learned from this pandemic might be applied not only in future pandemics but also in combat operations and military operations other than war. To capture key lessons from the pandemic relevant to NATO, the NATO Centre of Excellence for Military Medicine (MILMED COE) organized the COVID-19 Lessons Learned Workshop in Budapest, Hungary from 23 to 25 May 2023. The workshop was attended by 60 participants from 17 nations and multiple national and international organizations. The participants of the workshop were predominately from the military medical community, and as such, the scope through which the pandemic was viewed had a decidedly military-medical lens. The following are some of the abstracts from the plenary session of the workshop.

Planning of operation of technical systems of complex objects when using flexible strategies on the set of states of functioning

Verbal and formal models and methods of solving the problem of optimal planning of operation of technical systems of complex objects using flexible strategies on the set of states of functioning are presented. Technical systems fulfill the functions of providing the required conditions of functioning of technological equipment of complex objects. In complex multilevel objects technical systems occupy the lowest hierarchical level, which imposes some restrictions on the development of long-term plans for their operation, the timing and volume of preventive maintenance. Taking into account the differences and peculiarities of technical systems, we have developed mathematical models of quality indicators of the elements' functioning taking into account the implementation of preventive measures, and set the task of optimal long-term operation planning at the verbal and formal levels. The coefficients of readiness and operational readiness of system elements are taken as indicators of optimality under the constraints of specified terms, costs and duration of preventive maintenance. When planning control actions on the technical state of systems, not only the scope of preventive maintenance, but also the degree of utilization of redundant elements for their intended purpose are determined. To solve the optimization problem, an algorithm based on the random search method is developed. As a result of the performed research the following results are obtained: - mathematical models of complex indicators of reliability of elements of technical systems; - mathematical model of long-term planning of operation of technical systems; - an algorithm for finding an optimal solution based on the random search method.