The mate program and the support equipment community

The five principal objectives of the MATE pro gram are to: 0 Reduce life cycle costs of weapon system support and ATE 0 Reduce proliferation of ATE 0 Improve operational utility and test efficiency 0 Improve ATE Management 0 Improve ATE Procurement practices A successful development of the MATE system concept which satisfies these objectives will provide significant and measurable value to the two major beneficiaries of the program; the User and the Supplier. If the value of the program is to be realized it must be recognized and understood early enough to permit each beneficiary to prepare for its use. It is too soon to define the MATE system in absolute terms but the concept developed by the USAF Support Equipment SPO clearly in dicates a computer-centered configuration with modular stimuli and measurement devices employing state-of-the-art hardware and software. This concept coupled with an efficiency acquisition methodology means that the User can configure test stations rapidly from proved hardware and that the Supplier has data on needed modules in time to design and manufacture both hardware and software on the same schedule as the weapon system to be supported. An unspecified but essential element of the program requires that the MATE contractors establish a continuing effort designed to inform potential Users of the help that the system will offer and to inform potential Suppliers of business opportunities that the program offers. Sperry accepts responsibility for this requirement and this paper is a step in its satisfaction.