A case study of leadership and management in the Conventional Air Launched Cruise Missile Replenishment Program

Scope and method of study. The purpose of the study was to examine leadership, management and other factors during calendar year 1999 that contributed to the accomplishment of program objectives and success of the Conventional Air Launched Cruise Missile Replenishment Program in only seven months. A purposive sample that included thirteen subjects was taken from the total population. Each participant was interviewed and the data was analyzed to identify factors that were significant to the success of the missile program.;Findings and conclusions. Senior leadership, program planning, and organizing were the most significant factors that contributed to the success of the accelerated missile program that began in early 1999. Senior leadership was very significant during the early program phase and essential to get the program off to a rapid start. Similarly, planning formed the foundation for the program and was very critical at the senior management and team levels. Organization of personnel was vital in establishing the operational framework for the program including the integrated product team. Training and related work experience were significant and greatly influenced the style of leadership. The senior leaders empowered the team beyond what might be expected for a program of similar scope and complexity. The urgent need for additional missiles to replenish the Air Force inventory was a major motivational factor.