An analytical approach to Low Observable maintenance practices using simulation and marginal analysis

The F-22 Raptor is a unique aircraft with many technological advantages and superior capabilities. The aircraft's stealth capability is a function of many design aspects, including coatings that cover the outside of the aircraft and help mitigate radar detection. Maintaining these Low Observable coatings has its own set of challenges to include an inexperienced work force, time consuming procedures, and demanding maneuvers of a fifth generation fighter aircraft. Another challenge facing the F-22 fleet is low aircraft availability, where the aircraft is down for numerous reasons. Using a simulation built in ARENA, process improvements to Low Observable maintenance can be quantified with a goal of improving aircraft availability. One example of process improvements, the use of extra stock panels is tested in the simulation to see the potential marginal improvement to Aircraft Availability.