USSF Replacement Vehicles

The USSF Replacement Vehicles program is a procurement initiative under the Department of the Air Force, specifically supporting the United States Space Force (USSF). The primary objective of this line item is to replace and modernize non-tactical vehicles that are essential for supporting a wide range of USSF missions and daily operations. These vehicles are used by various commands, including the System Sustainment Command (SSC), Space Operations Command (SpOC), and Space Training and Readiness Command (STARCOM), at both continental U.S. (CONUS) and overseas (OCONUS) locations.

The vehicles enable space operations, training, protocol activities, and base support functions, thereby enhancing the operational readiness and mission effectiveness of the USSF.

The program encompasses several categories of vehicles, each with specific goals and operational justifications. Passenger Carrying Vehicles include sedans, law enforcement sedans, ambulances, and various types of buses, all of which are necessary for transporting personnel, supporting law enforcement activities, and providing emergency medical response capabilities. The procurement of these vehicles ensures that USSF personnel can be moved efficiently and safely across installations and operational areas.

Cargo and Utility Vehicles are another critical component of the program, consisting of pickup trucks, trailers, vans, utility trucks, and armored vehicles. These vehicles support logistics, maintenance, and base operations by enabling the transport of equipment, supplies, and personnel. The inclusion of armored utility and sports utility vehicles also provides enhanced protection for sensitive missions and operations, particularly in environments where security is a concern.

The program also addresses the need for Special Purpose Vehicles, such as wreckers, refuse trucks, water distribution trucks, refueling vehicles, and maintenance trucks. These vehicles are tailored for specialized tasks, including recovery operations, base maintenance, and support for unique mission requirements. Their procurement ensures that USSF installations have the necessary equipment to maintain operational continuity and respond to specific logistical challenges.

Materials Handling Vehicles, including forklifts, container handlers, and warehouse cranes, are procured to support base supply operations. These vehicles are essential for the efficient movement and storage of materials, contributing to streamlined logistics and supply chain management.

Similarly, Runway Snow Removal and Cleaning Equipment Vehicles, such as brooms, blowers, and plows, are vital for maintaining airfield operations, especially during adverse weather conditions. These vehicles ensure that runways remain operational and safe for use.

The program further includes Base Maintenance Support Vehicles, which comprise heavy construction equipment like loaders, dozers, cranes, dump trucks, and paving machines. These vehicles are necessary for infrastructure maintenance, construction projects, and emergency response activities. Their availability supports the long-term sustainability and resilience of USSF installations.

Funding for the USSF Replacement Vehicles program is determined based on requirements generated by the 441 Vehicle Support Chain Operations Squadron (VSCOS), following the Department of Air Force's Priority Buy vehicle model and the Planning, Programming, Budgeting and Execution (PPBE) process. The model considers vehicle end-of-life projections, sustainment costs, and mission priorities to calculate annual procurement needs.

The program also supports compliance with financial audit requirements under Title 10 U.S.C. Chapter 9A, Sec 240-D, and fulfills mandates for homeland defense, domestic emergency response, and military support to civil authorities as outlined in Section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act. Unit costs and procurement quantities may vary year-to-year due to factors such as inflation, location, and contract pricing, reflecting the dynamic nature of operational requirements and fiscal constraints.