STUDY OF THE PREPOSITIONING CONCEPT: OPERATION BIG LIFT
Abstract
This is the final report of a study concerned with the prepositioning of equipment in Seventh Army. It covers Operation BIG LIFT-the period from 8 Jul 63 to 31 May 64. The prescribed maintenance procedure prior to BIG LIFT was proved inadequate because of the amount of preparatory inspection and repair required. Consequently a new procedure was initiated on 31 Jul 63. The demand on theater manpower resources was such that it could not be met in an emergency, and it was suggested that the prepositioning of the equipment of selected slice elements would solve this problem. The prepositioned equipment of the 2d Armd Div was studied through all phases-from preparation for issue, through the field training exercise, to preparation for restorage. The restorage phase for prepositioned vehicles is still not completed. Equipment of the aggressor force, the 3d Armd Div, was studied during similar periods to establish a control for comparison purposes. Comparisons are made in all phases. With the exception of some standard B equipment (M59, armored personnel carrier, M48 tank, and the M38 1/4-ton truck), the performance of the prepositioned vehicles was comparable with those of the 3d Armd Div. The airlift and marrying-up phases were also examined, and it is concluded that after the start of hostilities the operation is most vulnerable in the staging areas, unless these are dispersed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0369233
Entities
People
- Carl F. Blozan
- Ralph A. Hafner