The Challenges of Logistically Sustaining and Supporting an Operational Force in a Contested Environment
Abstract
Operating in a contested environment from an Expeditionary Advanced Base (EAB) with a Stand-In Force will provide new and dynamic challenges for conventional military forces. The Marine Corps has access to relevant historical cases and modern concepts to effectively sustain forces in this environment. However, refinements are required to materialize this lessons and concepts in tangible processes. Over the past two decades Special Operations Forces have effectively developed processes and procedures in support of forces in contested and semi-permissible environments. Ultimately, it is incumbent upon the Marine Corps to develop effective means of distribution, integrated supply chain management, and cross MOS training to prepare its forces for the future fight. Further, historically significant lessons learned from the Falkland/Malvinas War, the 1944 German Offensive in the Ardennes, and the Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force 18.1 Rotation assist in answering the sustainment in a contested environment problem. The Marine Corps no longer has the luxury of large scale supply sustainment chains supported by unimpeded resource distribution. Therefore, failure to identify realistic or sustainable support models will devastate the momentum of the operational force if not adequately planned. Logistics will continue to drive or stifle operations based on the completeness of the concepts of support developed and the critical thought germinated by planners.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 09, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1177441
Entities
People
- Anthony M Ii Ansley
Organizations
- Marine Corps University