The MC-130 is a multi-role aircraft which plays a vital role in both times of war and peace as a key enabler of U.S. Special Operations Forces. Readiness training is particularly important for this asset, which must be ready to deploy at all times. As the U.S. Military budget decreases, the costs of training policy alternatives must be carefully evaluated to maximize readiness with the available resources. The purpose of this research is to inform decision makers about the respective effects on costs and readiness of existing and potential MC-130 aircrew continuation training policies. Frequency and duration of sorties, having a colocated simulator, the proportion of temporary duty training, and role specialization were investigated in this research. In order to accomplish this goal a literature review was conducted and a data gathering internship was carried out in the 353rd Special Operations Group at Kadena Airbase, Japan. Using the information gathered an integer linear optimization model was developed along with feasible model inputs. Cost analysis was performed for each of the policies in a variety of scenarios. Increasing the proportion of temporary duty training, and implementing role specialization policies were found to be favorable alternatives in some cases. Having a colocated simulator was found to provide the most significant savings for continuation training overall.
