DESIGN
STEM SPOTLIGHT OBSOLESCENCE COLUMN
Mitigating tomorrow’s obsolescence today
In the aerospace and defence sectors, the operational life of platforms and systems is measured in decades. From fighter jets to satellite communication systems, these assets are designed for longevity and reliability in theatre. However, the electronic components that form their very core operate on a much faster, often unforgiving, lifecycle. This fundamental mismatch creates a continuous and ever- changing challenge … component obsolescence. We’ve witnessed firsthand, through customer collaboration, the disruptive impact of obsolescence. A critical semiconductor that suddenly becomes unavailable can halt an entire production line, delay a crucial programme, or trigger a costly and time-consuming redesign. These are not mere supply chain hiccups; they are significant threats to operational
readiness and, consequently, national security. I believe that the lessons learned from these EOL encounters are clear and that a reactive approach is no longer sufficient. As we often say to our partners, you can’t make obsolescence obsolete, but with the right partners, you can be best prepared. Yes, the landscape is challenging. Semiconductor manufacturers are driven by the rapid pace of technological advancement, leading to shorter product lifecycles. This commercial reality stands in stark contrast to the long-term sustainment needs of the aerospace and defence sectors, so we must adopt a collaborative approach to mitigate future risk more effectively. When something hurts, we don’t like to look back at it; that’s human nature. However, with obsolescence, we must learn from past experiences and use our knowledge to gain a strategic
advantage.
1. Embrace proactive risk mitigation
Too often, obsolescence is treated as a problem to be solved only when a component is officially declared End-of-Life (EOL) – a critical mistake. A proactive approach involves continuous monitoring of the health of your Bill of Materials (BOM). This means leveraging market intelligence and predictive analytics to identify at-risk components long before an EOL notice is issued. By understanding market trends, supplier roadmaps, and lifecycle data, you can anticipate potential disruptions and make informed decisions early. This foresight enables strategic last-time buys, the qualification of alternative components, or engaging with a licensed manufacturer to ensure a continued supply, thereby transforming a potential crisis into a manageable event.
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