Analysis of Existing Methods for Calculating the Cost of the Stage of Use of Weapons and Military Equipment in the System of their Life Cycle Management

Keywords: Weapons and Military Equipment, Weapon System Life Cycle, Operation Phase, Operating Cost, Operating and Support Costs, Life Cycle Cost, Operating and Support CostsU.S. Methodologies, NATO Methodologies

Abstract

Purpose: To comprehensive comparative study of scientific and methodological approaches to calculating the cost of the stage of use of weapons and military equipment in the US Armed Forces and the NATO system to identify their key conceptual advantages over the current national methodology and form a sound analytical basis for its further adaptation. The study is aimed at establishing the key factors in the formation of operating costs and determining the directions of transforming the domestic approach into a holistic engineering and economic cost management system.

Method. Methods of systems analysis, analogy, and comparison.

Findings. Approaches to estimating the O&S costs of weapons and military equipment have been systematized and analyzed. Key features of modern methodologies have been identified, with particular attention paid to their application under martial law conditions. The feasibility of implementing a unified cost structure adapted to the needs of the Defence Forces of Ukraine has been substantiated.

Theoretical implications. The research deepens scientific understanding of methodologies for evaluating the O&S costs of military assets, providing a foundation for the development of effective decision-making in defence planning and resource management.

Practical implications. The results can be applied to improve approaches to estimating the O&S costs of weapons and military equipment in the Defence Forces of Ukraine, as well as to develop relevant methodological materials and internal regulatory documents in the field of defence planning.

Paper type. Theoretical.

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References

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Published
2026-04-30
How to Cite
Mazur, V. (2026). Analysis of Existing Methods for Calculating the Cost of the Stage of Use of Weapons and Military Equipment in the System of their Life Cycle Management. Social Development and Security, 16(2), 330-343. https://doi.org/10.33445/sds.2026.16.2.27
Section
Social Sciences