Naval International Aviation Logistics Process Improvement through Enhanced International Partner Relationships

Weinberger, Ron, DISAM Journal

The Naval International Aviation Logistics Process Improvement Team (LPIT), consists of representative members from:

* Navy International Program Office (Navy IPO)

* Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR)

* Naval Inventory Control Point (NAVICP)

* Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)

* Industry

* Foreign military sales (FMS) partners

In addition the list above, guests from other agencies and organizations, changed the course of NAVAIR international logistics support by enhancing relationships with international partners to form a "One Team" philosophy. At the LPIT annual Naval International Logistics Workshops, international partners have been empowered to select and provide feedback on their top issues, which are worked by the LPIT community throughout the year. Some of these issues include:

* Third party transfer

* Diminishing manufacturing sources and material shortages (DMSMS) and parts obsolescence

* Transportation

* Out-of inventory (OOI) weapon systems support

* Performance based logistics (PBLs)

Innovative ideas and recommendations have resolved major international logistics issues and resulted in multiple benefits for the international community. Through LPIT efforts, international logistics benchmarks have been set and models established that will continue to be used in the future. While developing and implementing new international logistics methods, the LPIT has also enhanced NAVAIR's international logistics profession for Product Support Team Leaders and the FMS Deputy Assistant Program Managers for Logistics by clearly defining and articulating their mission, responsibilities, and goals.

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Through revised emphasis on international partner relationships, there has been a noticeable increase in international partner participation at Naval International Aviation Workshops. There were sixty-five international participants representing nineteen nations at the LPIT Workshop on 30 April through 3 May 2007. This represented over a 100 percent increase in international attendees from the previous year.

Working as one team can make everyone stronger and more successful. This has been the case with the LPIT and the emphasis on listening to the voice of international partners throughout the year and in a formal, facilitated session at the annual LPIT Workshop. Some of the top issues worked by the LPIT are discussed below.

Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages and Parts Obsolescence--Number One Issue in 2006

In 2006, NAVAIR LPIT members were asked to join the Department of Defense (DoD) Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material …

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Publication information: Article title: Naval International Aviation Logistics Process Improvement through Enhanced International Partner Relationships. Contributors: Weinberger, Ron - Author. Magazine title: DISAM Journal. Volume: 29. Issue: 4 Publication date: December 2007. Page number: 109+. © 2008 Defense Institute of Security Assistance Management. COPYRIGHT 2007 Gale Group.

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