Life Cycle Management of Military Equipment: Experiences, Expectations and Opportunities for Collaboration

Research at ICE explores various options for cooperation in managing the life cycle of military equipment. This document is a product of the project “Life Cycle Management of Military Equipment,” conducted with the support of the Ministry of Defence of the Slovak Republic and Rheinmetall MAN. We believe our recommendations can significantly enhance decision-making regarding cooperation, thereby improving the efficiency of procurement, operation, maintenance, and decommissioning processes for military equipment, ultimately leading to substantial savings.

The life cycle of military equipment is often overlooked, yet it plays a crucial role in operational efficiency and financial savings in public spending, particularly when guided by an effective strategy. Currently, in discussions surrounding the acquisition of new weapon systems in Slovakia, the public tends to focus on the total purchase price or the cost of individual units. However, evaluating the entire life cycle of the military equipment reveals a more accurate picture of the necessary financial commitment. It’s essential to consider the total costs associated with the equipment’s entire life span, not just the upfront price. While modernization of the armed forces is urgent and unavoidable, it is equally important to assess the needs and budgetary constraints of the Ministry of Defence of the SR along with the broader implications for public finances.

Many modern life cycle approaches exist, and the private sector offers valuable lessons. Notably, international cooperation in managing the life cycle of military equipment presents an intriguing and potentially beneficial option for the future.