Improving Tools and Techniques for Obsolescence Management in Defense and Space Microelectronics Systems

Abstract

The rapid evolution of the defense and aerospace industry has created the needs of procurement specialized electronics, this along with technological evolution, market changes, international relationships, environmental policies and planned obsoletes from government entities, suppliers and manufacturers create an environment of uncertainty for the design, manufacture and sustainment of high reliability space and defense microelectronics, assemblies, and subassemblies. Organizations have the need to strategy the approach to obsolescence. Here is why the Department of Defense has invested heavily in development of supply chains process and procedures that aim to mitigate and provides a standardized guide to tackle material shortage and obsolescence impacting national defense. The intention of this paper is to present a systematic approach on how to improve the “Assess” phase from the Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortage Guidebook with the application of Lean Six Sigma tools and theory, helping on the removal of barriers to accomplish successful obsolescence mitigation. Key Terms – Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortage, Electronics Sustainment, Obsolescence, Process Improvement.