Smart weapon BIT and reprogramming: A management update

This paper offers insight into the challenges of modern day Navy and Marine Corp smart weapon Built In Test (BIT) and reprogramming. With the land-based organic depot quickly becoming a scarce commodity in today's environment of downsizing and streamlining, Navy and Marine Corp personnel are assuming more of the duties and responsibilities of the depot. The Common Munitions BIT Reprogramming Equipment (CMBRE) and Mobile Power Conditioning Unit (MPCU) embody all the elements of this new BIT and reprogramming process. The Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) was the first smart weapon, which used the CMBRE/MPCU system and is currently deployed on U.S. ships and military facilities located throughout the world. The JDAM program was also the first to employ ship ordnance personnel to BIT and reprogram "live" smart weapons on board ship. This paper offers a management perspective into how this new approach is being accomplished as the Navy boldly leads the way into the 21st century.