In the context of the Army National Guard, what is "preventive maintenance" defined as?

Preventive maintenance in the context of the Army National Guard refers to the regular inspections and upkeep of equipment designed to ensure its operational readiness. This concept is critical for maintaining the performance and reliability of equipment and vehicles utilized in military operations. By conducting routine checks and performing necessary upkeep tasks, the Army National Guard can identify potential issues before they become significant problems that could hinder mission readiness.

The practice helps extend the lifespan of equipment and reduces the likelihood of failures during critical missions. It can involve checks on various components, such as oil levels, tire conditions, and overall functionality, ensuring that everything is in optimal condition.

In contrast, other options suggest limited or reactive approaches to maintenance, which are not aligned with the proactive philosophy of preventive maintenance. For example, conducting only spot checks before major operations does not account for the ongoing care that equipment needs to remain reliable. Similarly, relying solely on outside contractors or performing maintenance only after equipment has been used does not support the continual readiness that preventive maintenance aims to achieve.