This paper gives insight into the development of a strategic value based decision model (SMARD) for the effective implementation of Reliability, Availability, Maintainability and Supportability (RAMS) in the design process of complex technical systems. This paper shows the application of this model to the military aircraft domain to improve operational availability and cost effectiveness. Two individual case studies performed in a military helicopter development program are described, emphasizing the lessons learned, best practices and improvement areas. These cases prove that the traditional Integrated Logistic Support approach towards the integration of RAMS in design and development of military systems has not been effective. Furthermore conclusions are drawn related to the further development and application of the RAMS Driven Design Approach in other industries.