The LI 7000 - Spares and Repair Parts program is a critical component of the Navy's Procurement, Marine Corps budget, specifically supporting the acquisition of initial and replenishment spare and repair parts for principal end items (PEIs) delivered to the Fleet Marine Force. The overarching goal of this line item is to ensure operational readiness and sustainability of Marine Corps equipment by providing timely and adequate spare parts for both repairable and consumable components. Funding for this program is used to reimburse the Navy Working Capital Fund for initial spares released with PEIs, as well as to support direct vendor delivery of these parts to Marine units.
Within the FY 2026 Base Appropriation, the Amphibious Combat Vehicle Family of Vehicles (ACV FOV) is a major focus. The objective for ACV FOV spares is to support the communication suites, drive train components such as outer and inner CV boots, electric starters, shock absorbers, and strut assemblies, and other critical vehicle systems. These spares are procured in alignment with the delivery of ACV vehicles, ensuring that Marine units have the necessary parts to maintain and operate the vehicles from the outset. The funding increase between FY 2025 and FY 2026 is attributed to normal inflationary pressures.
The Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar (G/ATOR) program is another significant element within LI 7000. The specific goal here is to support fifty-four G/ATOR systems through decentralized distribution of spares from LOGCOM to Repair Inventory Points at each Marine Expeditionary Force. An increase in spares funding is justified by the need to support delivery of additional Expeditionary Airfield Surveillance Radar (EASR) systems, ensuring that all fielded G/ATOR radars can be adequately maintained. This is essential for meeting Key Performance Parameter 8 (Sustainment), which is critical for the long-term operational effectiveness of the radar systems.
In addition to the major programs, the budget line also includes minor allocations for Repair and Test Equipment under BA 04, though no funding is requested for this category in FY 2026. Historically, this line has supported the procurement of spares for specialized test and repair equipment used in the maintenance of Marine Corps systems, but current requirements are being met through other means or previous procurements.
The justification for these investments centers on the need to avoid operational disruptions and ensure that Marine Corps units can maintain their equipment without delays caused by shortages of critical spare parts. By funding initial spares commensurate with the delivery of end items, the program mitigates risks associated with equipment downtime and supports the Marine Corps' ability to respond rapidly to operational demands. The decentralized distribution model for G/ATOR spares further enhances readiness by placing repair parts closer to the point of need.