H.R. 4812: To direct the Secretary of the Air Force to incorporate certain elements regarding depot-level maintenance coordination in at least one multinational exercise conducted in the area of operations of the United States Indo-Pacific Command, and for other purposes.

This bill directs the Secretary of the Air Force to include certain aspects of depot-level maintenance coordination in at least one multinational military exercise each year within the area of operations of the United States Indo-Pacific Command. The aim is to foster international cooperation on maintenance, repair, and sustainment of military assets among allied nations. Below are the key components of the bill:

1. Depot-Level Maintenance Coordination

The Secretary of the Air Force is required to:

• Include depot-level maintenance, repair, and sustainment considerations in multinational exercises with specific nations.
• Plan sessions with covered nations to:
• Identify cooperative opportunities that reduce transportation needs for maintenance and repairs.
• Facilitate real-time coordination concerning munitions stock levels and resupply routes.
• Achieve mutual recognition of airworthiness and maintenance certifications.
• Conduct emergency exercises focusing on logistics in case of equipment breakdowns.
• Coordinate with relevant Air Force organizations to ensure broad participation.

2. Reporting Requirements

Within 12 months of the bill's enactment, the Secretary is required to provide a report to Congress, which should include:

• A list of potential systems for co-sustainment with the Republic of Korea and Australia.
• Opportunities for joint depot-level repairs and maintenance collaboration.
• Involvement of industry partners from Korea and Australia in maintenance activities.
• Identification of logistical challenges related to host countries (such as workforce and location issues).
• Potential legal challenges regarding intellectual property or data rights.
• Considerations related to International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
• Recommendations for improving depot-level partnerships, including changes to existing agreements.
• An analysis of maintenance capabilities and gaps in Korea and Australia.
• An assessment of maintenance activities suitable for partnership.
• Analysis of how partnerships may enhance allied operations and regional stability.
• Consideration of planning related to future Air Force operational requirements.

3. Definition of Covered Nations

The bill defines "covered nations," which specifically include:

• The Commonwealth of Australia
• Canada
• Japan
• New Zealand
• The Republic of Korea
• The United Kingdom
• Any other nation designated by the Secretary of the Air Force as a covered nation

Relevant Companies

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