Rapid Sustainment Modernization (RSM)

The Rapid Sustainment Modernization (RSM) program, part of the Air Force's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation efforts, is designed to enhance the sustainment enterprise through advanced technologies. Its primary goals include improving readiness and reducing sustainment costs in areas such as depot maintenance, field maintenance, and supply chain management. The program emphasizes identifying and validating new technology projects that support these areas while ensuring cost efficiency and increased aircraft readiness.

A key objective of the RSM program is integrating advanced manufacturing techniques like additive manufacturing and cold spray technologies. These efforts aim to streamline repair processes and standardize procedures across the enterprise. The RSM AM AGORA Marketplace acts as a centralized platform accessible via Cloud One, facilitating access to government additive manufacturing capabilities and part approvals. This initiative seeks to consolidate technology growth under a single umbrella to maximize efficiency.

Another significant component of the RSM program is developing Condition-Based Maintenance Plus (CBM+) using Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. This initiative aims to enhance weapon system reliability by improving data synthesis across the Logistics Analytics Data Environment (BLADE). By implementing Enhanced Reliability Centered Maintenance (eRCM) and Sensor-Based Algorithms (SBAs), the program seeks to reduce unscheduled repairs, synchronize maintenance actions, and decrease overall maintenance costs.

Additionally, the RSM Technologies effort focuses on scaling "best of breed" technologies across the Air Force sustainment enterprise. This includes assessing Intermittent Fault Detection technologies to address issues like No Fault Found in systems and evaluating innovations such as Black Gold compressor blade coatings for turbine engines. These advancements are intended to improve fuel efficiency, provide better erosion protection, and deliver associated sustainment benefits for aircraft engines.