Original Date: 09/14/1998
Revision Date: 01/18/2007

In 1995, Raytheon Missile Systems Company (RMSC) operated its RAM and Maverick missile programs as separate initiatives. Each program used its own test and assembly personnel, test equipment, and support tooling to produce a finished product. However, projected reductions in program budgets, quantity requirements, and workforce size indicated that RMSC needed to change its operational methods if the company wanted to maintain its high level of customer support. As a result, RMSC developed a plan to reduce costs and improve the efficiency of its personnel, equipment, and facilities.

The plan called for developing two multi-missile manufacturing facilities. One facility produces, assembles, and tests the guidance and control sections for the RAM, Maverick, and AIM-9X programs. The other facility performs final assembly and delivers the end products to the customer. These joint, integrated, multi-project facilities are especially beneficial to small programs or ones with intermittent production schedules. By combining the RAM, Maverick, and AIM-9X programs, RMSC reduced factory floor space by more than 17,500 square feet. Test equipment, tooling, and fixtures are now maximized among the programs. Personnel are also cross-trained, so they can work on any aspect of these programs as workloads and priority requirements dictate.

RMSC saved approximately $1 million since implementing its multi-missile manufacturing facilities. This approach creates a multi-functional team structure; promotes the joint use of personnel, equipment, and facilities; and provides greater cost benefits for all.

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