Which type of maintenance can be performed by a unit in the field?

Unit maintenance refers to the type of maintenance that can be performed at the level of the unit in the field. This maintenance is typically the responsibility of the personnel assigned to the unit and is vital for ensuring that equipment remains operational and effective during deployment. Unit maintenance generally involves tasks such as performing routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and minor repairs.

This is essential for maintaining the readiness and functionality of equipment, allowing units to continue their operations with minimal disruption. Typically, unit maintenance is characterized by being less complex and requiring fewer specialized tools or extensive resources compared to higher levels of maintenance, such as direct support or depot maintenance, which may require specialized facilities, equipment, and personnel.

In contrast, depot maintenance is a higher-level maintenance that usually takes place in a facility equipped for significant repairs and overhauls, while general support maintenance may involve more complex tasks that can be performed by support units, not necessarily on-site. Direct support maintenance typically involves providing operational support directly to the unit but may also not be carried out in the field under all circumstances, as it often requires returning equipment to a support facility for more in-depth work.