Logistics Assessment Guidebook

The DoD Weapon Systems Acquisition Reform Product Support Assessment (WSAR-PSA) identified eight principle areas to improve product support effectiveness. One of those areas, "Governance", included the recommendation to implement independent Logistics Assessments during weapon system development, production, and Post-Initial Operational Capability (Post IOC) acquisition phases. Thorough Logistics Assessments provide leaders with a health assessment of each Integrated Product Support element and assist in making informed decisions at milestones and/or at key program decision points. This Guidebook supports the USD(AT&L) November 2010 memorandum on "Better Buying Power" by addressing the themes of affordability, controlling cost growth, and innovation in industry. It provides a structure for conducting Logistics Assessments and helps Components establish baseline assessment criteria specific to their weapon systems. Logistics Assessments should be performed at Milestones B and C, prior to Full Rate Production (FRP) decisions, at Post-IOC reviews, or at least every five years. These assessments will ensure that there is adequate supportability planning, management, resource identification, and risk mitigation for each program at different phases of its life cycle.