Introduction
In the dynamic world of defense technology, Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS) presents a critical challenge for long-lived Department of Defense (DoD) systems. Power supplies—the critical components powering radar arrays, ground vehicles, and weapon systems—face an ongoing threat of obsolescence that can compromise operational readiness. As electronic components evolve and manufacturing landscapes shift, maintaining these vital systems demands a proactive, strategic approach.
The Obsolescence Dilemma
DMSMS is more than a technical inconvenience—it’s a systemic challenge driven by rapid technological advancements, market dynamics, and supplier decisions. For power supplies, this means critical components like integrated circuits (ICs) can disappear as commercial electronics rapidly evolve or suppliers exit specific markets.
The stakes in defense are exceptionally high. While a power supply failure in a civilian device might result in a simple reboot, similar issues on the battlefield could mean mission failure. Military-grade requirements add layers of complexity:
- Extreme ruggedization
- Performance in harsh temperature ranges
- Electromagnetic compatibility
- Long-term system reliability
Strategic Approaches to DMSMS Management
How do we keep power supplies humming when the ground keeps shifting? It takes a mix of foresight, collaboration, and smart engineering. Here’s what works:
Lifecycle Forecasting and Proactive Sourcing
Proactive lifecycle forecasting is key—tools like SiliconExpert let us monitor every component in our bill of materials (BOM), flagging product discontinuance notices (PDNs) and product change notifications (PCNs) early. This tool also provides a risk assessment for our bill of material evaluating the predicted life cycle of components. When a last-time-buy opportunity arises, we collaborate across teams—engineering, business development, and program management—to assess system lifecycles and forecast technology obsolescence (SD-22, Section 4.6). How many years must this power supply support the mission? We then secure a life-of-need (LON) buy, stockpiling components to buy time and delay costly resolutions such as redesigns or validation efforts requiring additional rework and labor hours.
Design to Mitigate Obsolescence
To ensure longevity, select materials with an estimated EOL (End of Life) of at least 7 years and prioritize parts with equivalents readily available in the marketplace, avoiding vendor lock-in. This approach emphasizes choosing robust, future-proof materials that minimize the risk of obsolescence. By opting for components with widely supported alternatives, the design avoids the need for extensive rework when a specific part is discontinued. This proactive strategy balances initial material selection with sustained system reliability, reducing lifecycle costs and maintaining performance over time.
Partnering with Specialized Manufacturers
Partnering with specialized manufacturers is critical—those who understand military-grade demands like ruggedization and electromagnetic compatibility can extend component lifecycles through custom solutions or last-time buy opportunities (SD-22, Section 3.2.7). By embedding DMSMS management requirements into contracts, we ensure these partners proactively flag issues and collaborate with our DMSMS Management Team (DMT) to bridge supply gaps. Whenever possible, we also share our forecasts with suppliers proactively, providing them with a heads-up on expected demand—just as we appreciate when our customers do the same—fostering stronger collaboration and preparedness across the supply chain.
Embracing Redesign When Necessary
Sometimes, obsolescence outpaces prevention—a discontinued IC might demand a redesign or a substitute part (SD-22, Section 6.2). Redesign isn’t defeat—it’s adaptation. Guided by DMSMS health assessments (SD-22, Appendix J), we notify customers per contract terms, test modern equivalents for compliance, and implement cost-effective resolutions to keep power supplies battle-ready.
The Bigger Picture
DMSMS isn’t a one-and-done fix; it’s a moving target requiring strategic management (SD-22, Foreword). That’s why we’re refining our process—amplifying early notifications through predictive tools, tightening collaboration via our DMSMS Management Team (DMT), and maintaining detailed case records to track resolutions and minimize customer disruption.
It’s about building a proactive culture that balances today’s deadlines with tomorrow’s threats.
Conclusion
In defense, power supplies aren’t just components—they’re the pulse of mission-critical operations. Keeping them viable amid DMSMS takes more than quick fixes; it demands proactive strategy, cross-team collaboration, and a willingness to evolve (SD-22, Foreword). By leveraging tools like SiliconExpert, designing for resilience, and forging strong partnerships, we ensure our systems don’t just survive—they thrive, delivering readiness no matter what the future holds.
About SD-22
At Rantec Power Systems, we lean on SD-22 – A Guidebook of Best Practices for Implementing a Robust DMSMS Management Program as a cornerstone reference. Published by the Department of Defense, this guide shapes our approach—from lifecycle forecasting to partnering with manufacturers—offering proven strategies to tackle DMSMS head-on. It’s our playbook for staying proactive and keeping your systems powered. Learn more at: https://www.dsp.dla.mil/Programs/DMSMS/
