Under what condition does a Broad Arrow exist?

A Broad Arrow indicates a situation where an Intermediate Maintenance Activity (IMA) can no longer support or repair specific aeronautical components. This term is critical in maintenance and logistics within the Navy, as it signifies that there is a gap in capability that affects the readiness and availability of aircraft and their components.

When the IMA loses this capability, it may result from a number of factors, including a lack of necessary parts, tools, or personnel with the required skills. In operational terms, this condition can trigger various maintenance and supply chain responses to address the shortage and ensure that aircraft can maintain mission readiness.

Understanding the context of a Broad Arrow is essential for personnel involved in maintenance, as it emphasizes the importance of sustaining an operational fleet and highlights the critical need for timely repairs and logistics support.