FIRST is a performance-based logistics contract to provide support to the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. The objective is to improve fleet support and aircraft readiness while reducing costs. The contract provides asset management (spares and repairs), supportability improvements, obsolescence management, technology insertion and integrated logistics support.
In December, 2005 the U.S. Navy awarded Boeing a long-term performance-based logistics contract valued at $995 million for the F/A-18E/F Integrated Readiness Support Teaming (FIRST) program
As part of FIRST, Boeing provides field support representatives on site at fielded aircraft bases in California and Virginia under the Hornet support network concept. Boeing utilizes several original equipment manufacturer suppliers along with Navy depots in California, North Carolina and Florida to perform repairs. In addition to substantial savings, the contract allows the U.S. Navy to consolidate the separate contracts the FIRST program currently operates under into a single contract overseen by the Naval Inventory Control Point, NAVICP. The contract also adds features not currently covered, including automated maintenance environment, an integrated software program that improves maintenance data, fault diagnosis and decisions, and integrated electronic technical manuals for F/A-18A-D models.
FIRST began in 2001 with annual contracts. The program is projected to provide approximately $1.0 billion in cost avoidances and savings over the 30-plus-year life cycle of the Super Hornet. FIRST was nominated for the Department of Defense awards program for excellence in performance based logistics by the Navy's Program Executive Office for Tactical Aircraft, Patuxent River Naval Air Station, Md.