gies and conduct proactive and reactive tactics in a space conflict • Meticulously analyzing perfor- mance data to improve readiness • Leveraging enterprise opportuni- ties to manage obsolescence and optimize performance across the entire product support network In this multifaceted role, PSMs dedicate themselves, their teams, the Services, and industry partners, and collaborate with our allies and part- ners to ensure that our Warfighters are utilizing mission-ready systems, ultimately guaranteeing their success on the battlefield. A PSM’s day is a continuous cycle of strategic execution, involving a blend of analytical and collaborative work. In the morning, a PSM might review maintenance data and fore- cast potential component failures to proactively mitigate mission impact. Later, the PSM could negotiate a per- formance-based product support ar- rangement, prioritizing effectiveness based on system availability and cost reduction over sheer parts delivery. Post-lunch, the PSM briefs the PM on updated life-cycle cost esti- mates and affordability concerns. This constant effort includes navi- gating complex risks, from obsoles- cence to intellectual property, all while revalidating the Product Sup- port Strategy (PSS) and Life Cycle Sustainment Plan (LCSP) to maintain system effectiveness. Ultimately, this laser-focused dedication translates into a system that performs when and where the Warfighter needs it, with the PSS and LCSP providing foundational guidance.
the PSMs’ work serves the Warfighter by delivering an operationally ready system when and where it is needed. This commitment to readiness brid- ges the gap between program office requirements and operational reali- ties, directly contributing to mission success. A PSM’s Day The following is a glimpse into what a day might look like for a PSM, as expressed by Space Systems Com-
mand Division Chief and Product Sup- port Manager Wendy L. Gonzales. The PSM executes a diverse array of daily tasks to ensure our Warfighters have mission-ready, resilient space capa- bilities that enable them to operate and win in a contested environment. These tasks include: • Collaborating with operations, end users, and industry in designing and delivering resilient, support- able systems, digital models, and simulators to orchestrate strate-
Through the strategic development of the PSS and the LCSP, PSMs champion performance and orchestrate collaboration across a vast network of stakeholders. Their work transforms data-driven insights into an actionable roadmap, ensuring that our military receives effective, affordable, and mission- capable systems.
MARCH – APRIL 2026 | DEFENSE ACQUISITION MAGAZINE 29
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