The Emergence of Aerial Delivery as a Routine Method of Resupply (versus Its Traditional Emergency Role)
Abstract
Aerial delivery (airdrop) is a method of resupply. However, there are those who consider it a method of supply delivery, thereby categorizing it as a method of transportation. Doctrinally, airdrop is a quartermaster functional responsibility and is designated as a primary field service, as is laundry and bath, graves registration and bakery services. Airdrop has long been considered as a means of emergency resupply only, and with good reason. Aircraft availability within a theater will be extremely limited; costs in terms of quantities of supplies/equipment that can be effectively delivered; the vulnerability of aircraft in a hostile environment; and the lack of materiel handling equipment to facilitate recovery operations are but a few of the substantial constraints that limit airdrop to an emergency resupply role. However, changes in operational/tactical warfighting and the very nature of the geographics in anticipated theaters of operation have caused tacticians as well as logisticians to relook the most effective means of sustaining the fighting force. The lack of adequate road and rail networks, no inland waterways and shortage of tactical wheel vehicles indicate that aerial delivery may be the only reliable means of logistically sustaining the force. Research and development, force structure, logistical doctrine, personnel requirements and training in the airdrop area are being enhanced to satisfy combat service support requirements in a hostile area of operations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 24, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA182859
Entities
People
- Robert W. Mortis
Organizations
- United States Army War College