Actual vs Simulated Equipment for Aircraft Maintenance Training: Cost Implications of the Incremental vs the Unique Device

Life cycle cost estimates were developed for use of simulated test equipment vs actual test equipment in a maintenance training program of the type used for current advanced fighter aircraft. Previous life cycle cost comparisons had not explicitly considered the cost implications of procurement and support of a unique training device vs an incremental device. This effort included the unique vs the incremental device factor. Total estimated fifteen year costs for simulated equipment trainers were significantly lower than comparable estimates for actual equipment trainers. The results indicate that the cost implications of a unique device vs an incremental device are important determinants of both acquisition and support cost estimates and should be considered fully in future life cycle costing efforts.