C-130 MC Rate in “High 90s,” Even in Uzbekistan: 
Active duty and ANG maintainers working together on C-130 airlifters are on top of things at Karshi-Khanabad AB, Uzbekistan—keeping their aircraft’s mission capable rate in the high 90s. Maintenance issues forced the cancellation of only one mission in the past month—an accomplishment Ohio ANG maintenance superintendent MSgt. Mike Stichler calls “outstanding.” The C-130 mechanics have kept the high MC rate despite having to replace 14 engines and change out an additional 14 propellers so far this year.
As Air Force leaders consider concepts of operations for Collaborative Combat Aircraft, sustainment in the field—and easing that support by using standard parts and limiting variants—should be a key consideration, according to a new study from AFA's Mitchell Institute of Aerospace Studies.