How Gripen's Availability is Maximised at All Times
One way that Gripen achieves maximum operational effect and high availability is through its inherent smart support system. Episode 9 of True Collaboration Season 3 talks more about the effective maintenance solution that comes with Gripen which makes it ready to be deployed at all times.
“Since early development, the requirements of Gripen was that all the items that needed to be replaced should be easily accessible and that it should not be a time-consuming process to replace,” says Niclas Kolmodin, Head of Business Unit Gripen Support, Saab.
Through smart support solutions that include minimal logistic footprint, quick replacement of LRUs (Line-replaceable Units), and on-condition maintenance which allows the removal of a part/item to eliminate failure, Gripen operators are ensured quick and efficient service and enhanced availability all the time.
Other contributing factors to Gripen’s superior supportability include the high-level multi-national cooperation, support organizations, and the efficient supply chain management. According to Logistics Assistant at GAC – Saab, Brazilian Air Force, Cap. Larissa Barros, the joint effort between Saab and the Brazilian Air Force, that comprises of several areas of the supply chain, directly impacts the aircraft’s availability. “With good support solution, we can guarantee enhanced availability by optimizing our resources,” she adds.