Inside Report (1)

The US Air Force is ready for war -- provided the fighting lasts no more than a month. After 30 days there would be a shortage of repair parts, says one key officer.

Maj. Gen. John R. Paulk says: "We don't have the parts on the shelf; we're billions of dollars short."

And he ought to know.General Paulk commands the spare parts and supplies center at Robins Air Force Base, Ga. -- one of five that the service operates.

Another problem: Some mechanics cause costly delays in keeping planes flying because they are unfamiliar with the equipment.m