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Usage of AI in USAF Maintenance & Logistics

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How can emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, be integrated into the operational workflows of various Air Force units? What are the challenges in effectively transitioning to AI-driven decision-making processes within Air Force maintenance and logistics operations? How can seamless integration and optimization of AI technologies be ensured without compromising operational efficiency or mission readiness? How can potential challenges, such as data security and compatibility issues, be addressed? 

  • Carroll, Lt. Col. Daniel R., "On Disruptive Technologies for Improving Aircraft Maintenance and Readiness," AF Fellows Paper (Argonne National Laboratory), 2025, 73 pgs. 
  • Hagardt, Lt. Col. Benjamin, "Artificial Intelligence and Agile Combat Employment," GCPME thesis, subsequently published in Military Review (May-June 2024). Original paper.
  • Kearney-Kurt, Christine, "Overcoming Strategic Blind Spots in Airlift Operations," AFGC thesis, 2025, 35 pgs.
    • She notes that airlift planners, aircrews, maintainers, and logisticians currently use separate, siloed databases to track flight hours, parts, and equipment, which prevents them from adapting quickly during crises. To fix this, she recommends utilizing AI to merge these disparate systems into a single HADR Common Operating Picture (COP). By pre-loading flight rules, maintenance schedules, and security clearances, an AI-driven manager could instantly provide planners with real-time resource availability the moment a crisis occurs.
  • Lawhon, Maj. Joshua, "Making Boxes Smart: Using AI and ML to Streamline AF Logistics and Readiness," GCPME thesis, 2024, 34 pgs. 
  • North, Matthew, "Can Machines Have Ethics?" AFGC thesis, 2025, 44 pgs.
    • North notes that while AI struggles with ethical dilemmas, it excels at numerical and language analysis in logistics and acquisitions. By transforming raw supply chain data, AI can successfully predict shortages, optimize delivery routes, and improve predictive maintenance, ultimately reducing logistics costs by 15% and decreasing product defects. Furthermore, AI can rapidly scan massive, complex acquisition contracts to ensure the warfighter receives necessary tools faster and cheaper.
  • Stevenson, Maj. Dane and Andrew Clayton, "Improve Aircraft Maintenance Sortie Production Rates with Extended Reality and Artificial Intelligence Assistance in Maintenance Processes," ACSC VR/AR RTF paper, 2022, 11 pgs.