This paper concentrates on the rationale for statistical data processing in ground-based radio and electronic equipment operation system. In this regard, a comparative analysis of the two maintenance strategies was performed. The first strategy is based on planned maintenance and repair procedures in case of equipment failure. In the second strategy, decision on the implementation of preventive actions based on the results of statistical data processing on diagnostic variable trends changes. An indicator of the efficiency of each strategy is the mathematical expectation of operation costs. A probabilistic-event model was used for formula determination. The limiting ratios for the efficiency improvement indicator were found. The requirements for the average cost of statistical data processing were defined on basis of limiting ratios.