Buying ships is only the start of the work required to keep them useful. Older imported vessels may be cheaper initially but impose heavier maintenance demands and provide less remaining service life. Their ageing weapons and ammunition may also need expensive modernisation or reconditioning. Every type of equipment requires servicing, storage, and skilled personnel, making sustainment a central design and procurement consideration.
Chapter · 12:06-13:26
Sustainment outlasts acquisition
A fleet requires continuing maintenance, stores, weapons support, and trained people long after the ships have been acquired.