What does the abbreviation "CM" signify?

The abbreviation "CM" stands for Cannibalization Maintenance. This term refers to a maintenance practice in which parts are removed from one aircraft or equipment that is not operational to restore another aircraft or piece of equipment to a fully operational status. Cannibalization can be an essential practice to maintain fleet readiness, especially in situations where parts are in short supply or when time is critical and other repair options are not immediately available.

Understanding Cannibalization Maintenance is vital for logistics and maintenance personnel, as it helps optimize the use of available resources to ensure that mission capability is maintained. This practice is typically governed by specific guidelines to ensure that it is executed systematically and within established protocols to avoid any negative impacts on the overall maintenance and operational integrity of the fleet.