As a part of the requirements definition process for the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) aircraft, requirements analysts looked for new ways to improve the logistics processes. Autonomic Logistics was a term coined for these new processes that combined advanced on-board diagnostics and sensor systems to feed diagnostics results to ground-based information systems. It is envisioned that ground-based information systems will coordinate with Command and Control systems to assign the next mission and insure that the right replenishment stores and parts and technicians meet the aircraft when it lands. This concept has been discussed for years and has been briefed and approved at all levels of the Air Force. However, only the JSF contractors, who will attempt to develop an aircraft and support structure meeting the JSF requirements for Autonomic Logistics, are looking at the process. No Air Force agency has assumed the responsibility for fully defining the concept and insuring all aspects are covered with required research and evaluation. Without this research, Autonomic Logistics concepts will not meet all aircraft's future support requirements. This SBIR recommends an initial definition and technology evaluation to insure Autonomic Logistics can support all Air Force needs.
