Analysis of EA-18G Growler Engine Maintenance at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, WA

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to conduct a cost-benefit analysis of the repair of EA-18G aircraft engines at Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island, WA. Currently, Fleet Readiness Center West (FRC West) at NAS Lemoore, CA, provides engine repair to all squadrons flying F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft. The F/A-18E/F Super Hornets use the F414-GE-400 engine, the same engine/propulsion system/module used in the EA-18G Growler. The introduction of EA-18G Growlers to the Navy and replacement of aging F/A-18C aircraft with Super Hornets has increased the demand for repair at FRC West. Over 1,000 miles separates the Growlers at Whidbey Island and the repair facility at NAS Lemoore, which affects readiness levels. This research builds on the findings and recommendations of a previous thesis project at the Naval Postgraduate School Forecasting the Demand of the F414-GE-400 Engine at NAS Lemoore, which concluded that FRC West is working at 100% utilization. The present project focuses on the practices both NAS Whidbey Island and NAS Lemoore use and creates a scenario that duplicates the test cell for the Growler engine and relevant equipment at NAS Whidbey Island. The goal of this project is to identify whether the Growler's readiness would be increased by adding limited repair capability and the capability to test the F414-GE-400 engine at NAS Whidbey Island, as well as any additional benefits that might be gained.