Ammunition: A Vital Ingredient in Strategic Logistics
Abstract
The deployment of United States forces to an unimproved theater in the Middle East for Operation Desert Storm was the most extensive endeavor our country has under-taken in many years. The demands placed on the logistics system were enormous, they came from massive usage rates, long lines of communication from the United States to the battlefield, and an incredible requirement for all types of transportation. Operation Desert Storm tested two primary strategic capabilities: projection of power, which involves rapid strategic movement of forces and materiel to the battlefield, and sustainment of the military forces, which provides the projected force with the means to fight. One of the greatest concerns was ammunition sustainability. Five battalion commanders participating in Desert Storm were interviewed about ammunition support during Operation Desert Storm. Analysis of Operation Desert Storm, including these commanders' perceptions of ammunition support experienced during the operation, provides insight for support in future battles. The success of Operation Desert Storm relied heavily on allied support, but the actual use of force depended on the United States' capability to project power and sustain that power on the battlefield. The ability to produce, transport, and maintain a continuous flow of ammunition proved instrumental to providing that capability and will continue to be a vital ingredient during future conflicts.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 09, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA251295
Entities
People
- Terry L. Nienhouse
Organizations
- United States Army War College