This functional solution analysis (FSA) is the third in a trio of documents that the Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System requires for a capabilities-based assessment of intratheater airlift capabilities. Specifically, the analysis is an operationally based assessment of current capabilities to determine whether a materiel solution is required to close the capability gap identified in the second document, the functional needs analysis. That analysis raised concerns about airlift capacity even under existing demand levels, given an aging fleet. The FSA reviewed a series of non-materiel options intended to fill that gap, generally by delaying the need to recapitalize. However, the FSA revealed no viable non-materiel solution or combination of such solutions that could delay the need to recapitalize the fleet by more than a few years. This indicated a need to evaluate potential materiel solutions including service-life extension programs and new aircraft buys. .

"Prepared for the United States Air Force"--T.p.

Introduction and background -- Intratheater airlift fleet condition and status -- Functional solution analysis methodology -- Delaying C-130 recapitalization by reducing accumulation of equivalent baseline hours -- Delaying C-130 recapitalization by increasing the supply of EBH -- Delaying C-130 recapitalization by reducing the number of aircraft needed to meet the requirement -- How current operations influence the demand for C-130s -- Cost-effectiveness analysis -- Conclusions -- Appendix: C-130 structural issues.