A Joint Logistics Command -- Is It Needed?
Abstract
Joint Publication 4.0, Doctrine for Support of Joint Operations states the art of logistics requires the integration of sustainment efforts to support the employment concept of a geographic combatant commander. Each service supports its forces assigned to a combatant commander unless otherwise directed or by existing agreements between the services. Effective integration of logistics is required to effectively support the plan, to prioritize resources, and to prevent duplication of effort among the services. Historically logistical support to joint operations has been problematic. Theater support organizations were largely ad hoc organizations and priorities for scarce resources were matters of contention between the services. Competing logistics systems of the services were often redundant and costly. The joint staff proposed establishment of a Joint Theater Logistics Command and Control organization to prioritize scarce resources, to capitalize on the capabilities of each service, and to eliminate duplication of effort by the services. Similar to a Theater Army Area Command, the organization would have tasking authority over the logistics forces of the services. The primary purpose of this organization would be common logistics support to all of the services. The Army Theater Support Command (TSC) serves as the Army Service Component Commander's single point of contact to sustain Army forces. The TSC is also designed to provide common logistics support to the other services. Under most circumstances the Army will be either the most capable service or the dominant user of logistical supplies and services. The geographic combatant commander has the authority to designate a service as lead agent for common logistics support. An historical review indicates that although joint logistical operations have not been very efficient, they have been very effective.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 27, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA370340
Entities
People
- Robert L. Chadwick
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College