Richmond, Va. –
Defense Logistics Agency Aviation Commander Air Force Brig. Gen. David Sanford shared updates on DLA Aviation’s aircraft sustainment mission with a transatlantic audience during a United Kingdom-based International Helicopter Summit Feb. 16.
The summit offers an opportunity to share and exchange ideas on sustainment with industry joint allied partners and other nations.
In his virtual presentation, Sanford addressed several developments across DLA, such as the ongoing acquisition and supply chain management modernization strategy. He said modernization efforts are key to strengthening DLA’s industry partnerships with original equipment manufacturers.
“The global logistics environment is rapidly evolving and increasingly interconnected,” Sanford said. “DLA must work closely with industry partners to modernize and streamline our acquisition and end-to-end supply chains to deliver increased readiness and maintain our competitive advantage.”
Sanford added that strong supplier partnerships enable DLA to continue building a diverse, resilient and agile industrial base to reduce supply chain risk “and drive the best value for our customers.”
“We all are experiencing sustainment challenges with aging platforms, and even newer weapons systems,” Sanford said.
Sanford discussed the agency’s strategy for improving material readiness through industry collaboration, shortening the logistics “kill chain” and the role of logistics in helping deter conflict; or, if unable, being prepared to rapidly support combat operations as well as humanitarian efforts.