F/A-18 as a Force Multipler Based On Designed-In Reliability and Multi-Mission Flexibility

The F/A-18 aircraft is a real force multiplier. Designed-in multimission capability, substantial measurable gains in aircraft availability, reliability, maintainability and ease of support are major contributors to this versatility. Actual reliability and maintainability data for CY'86 is summarized and compared to that of other operational aircraft. The technical reasons that the reliability and maintainability improvements are achieved are expressed in terms of program cost avoidance. Results from deployments are displayed to clearly illustrate the austere requirements for forward deployments. The F/A-18 is the safest and one of the most survivable airplanes in the world. The safety designed-in features are displayed and the survivability features enumerated. Force multiplication includes close-in combat, beyond visual range, sea surface surveillance and strike, all-weather, and reconnaissance.