Operational Logistics for the Next Somalia: Challenges in Sub-Saharan West Africa.
Abstract
This paper develops a hypothetical United Nations sanctioned international military mission to provide security for the delivery of humanitarian aid into the interior of West Africa. It suggests that the current political, demographic, climatic, and economic conditions in the Sahara region of sub-Sahara West Africa may be working together to create a situation similar to that which existed in Somalia in 1992. Using experiences and lessons derived from the Somalian relief mission operation restore hope. A West African relief mission is postulated and examined primarily but not exclusively, in terms of operational logistics and sustainment principles, requirements, capabilities and limitations. This specific examination could be useful for a future commander as the plans for a similar mission. The paper suggests that armed forces can best contribute to regional political objectives and limitations. This specific examination could be useful for a future commander as the plans for s similar mission. The paper suggests that armed forces can best contribute to regional political objectives by limiting military participation to providing impartial protection for the delivery of humanitarian relief and concludes that unified commanders should anticipate such missions in the future.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 16, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA297836
Entities
People
- Steven K. Johnson
Organizations
- Naval War College