Date of Award

3-11-2011

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Department of Operational Sciences

First Advisor

James W. Chrissis, PhD.

Abstract

In support of US Air Force efforts to conserve resources without sacrificing capability, this research examines the question of whether the 509th Bomb Wing could continue to provide maximum combat capability with fewer assigned pilots. During peacetime, pilot proficiency training comprises the majority of annual flying hours for the small B-2 bomber fleet. Optimal pilot manning will decrease the accumulation of excess wear on the airframes; helping to extend the viable life of the B-2 fleet and preserve the deterrent and combat capabilities that it provides to the United States. The operations and maintenance activity flows for B-2 aircraft and pilots in a notional sustained combat scenario are constructed in an Arena discrete-event simulation model. The model provides the capability to determine optimum manning levels for combat-qualified B-2 pilots across a range of fleet mission capable rates. Determination of actual optimum manning levels is sensitive to duration and probability parameters which are unavailable for use in this work. Notional parameter estimates are used to assess combat mission capability and pilot manning.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-OR-MS-ENS-11-08

DTIC Accession Number

ADA541621

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