Who must approve the local purchase of aircraft parts?

The approval for the local purchase of aircraft parts must come from the weapon system program office. This is because the weapon system program office is responsible for ensuring that the procurement of parts aligns with the overall maintenance and operational strategy of the aircraft. They oversee the lifecycle management of the weapon system, which includes ensuring the parts purchased meet the necessary specifications, meet safety standards, and are compatible with the system's operational requirements.

This centralized authority helps prevent unauthorized or inappropriate purchases that could lead to issues such as compatibility problems, cost overruns, or logistical inefficiencies. Their approval process ensures that local purchases still reflect the broader organizational goals and compliance with regulations governing the procurement of military equipment and parts.