scope:

AFETS personnel are the primary source of ETS support in the AF. AFETS field technicians shall be used and retrained as necessary to meet technical needs. (T-1). CETS are important elements in developing an independent AF capability on new systems; however, units must develop their own organic and AFETS capability whenever possible. (T-2). Organizations should normally terminate CETS within 12 months after obtaining self-sufficiency. However, when considering software issues, numerous modifications and extended life programs of most Mission Design Series (MDS), an appropriate level of CETS support over the weapon system life cycle may be considered necessary. ETS requirements within the AF will normally be satisfied through the use of AFETS where practical.

Exclusions. ETS covered in this AFI excludes:

Engineering review and resolution of service-revealed deficiencies reported through normal maintenance information systems.

Material deficiency reports covered in TO 00-35D-54, USAF Deficiency Reporting, Investigation and Resolution.

The engineering determination of material integrity.

The engineering or technical services used in 61-series instructions.

Purpose.

The Air Force (AF) must maintain its weapons systems and equipment to meet mission operational needs at a reasonable cost. To accomplish this, units need the capability to quickly resolve complex or unusual technical problems and provide enhanced system-specific technical training to AF technicians and operators. It is not cost effective to train all technicians to this high level of expertise. Therefore, the AF authorizes Engineering and Technical Services (ETS) programs to accomplish these critical technical tasks. Both, AF Engineering and Technical Services (AFETS) and Contractor Engineering and Technical Services (CETS), are expeditionary resources prepared to deploy as needed.