Taking Charge of Joint Theater Logistics: The Case for a Theater Logistics Command

Abstract

This thesis explores how the Joint Force Commander best commands and controls the integration of Joint Logistics at the Theater level. Currently, there are two primary methods; through a Command Organization or through the J-4. This paper makes a compelling case for a Joint Theater Logistics Command. The primary focus is to examine the management of common user logistics at the theater level. This paper outlines the legal obligations of each of the Armed Services in providing logistical support to their forces during joint operations and reviews historical examples of logistical support in conflicts from WWII to present. Service and Joint doctrine is reviewed as the framework for current operations. An analysis of two current proposals for Joint Theater Logistics is presented and evaluated. A conclusion and recommendations are included to provide the supporting logic and direction on solving command and control for Joint Theater Logistics through the use of a Joint Force Support Component Command. Direction of Joint Theater Logistics has been managed in a variety of ways throughout American military history. Repeatedly, the American military has in time of crisis, been slow to respond logistically to major or minor conflict and always put together an ad hoc structure to manage Theater level logistics. These ad hoc structures have ultimately successfully sustained US forces but often at a significant cost in lives while we slowly responded with a logistical build up and put together a structure to direct Joint Theater Logistics. The common element to success for each of these logistics management structures was that they were under the directive authority of the Combatant Commander. As we look to the future, however, the rapid tempo of operations and changing nature of the types of warfare we now face will not allow us the luxury of time to adapt

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 14, 2006
Accession Number
ADA451236

Entities

People

  • Thomas K. Gainey

Organizations

  • National Defense University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • C4I
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Combatant Commanders
  • Command And Control
  • Deployment
  • Information Systems
  • Logistics
  • Logistics Management
  • Management Personnel
  • Military History
  • National Security
  • Organizational Structure
  • Personnel Management
  • Second World War
  • Supply Chain
  • Supply Depots
  • United States Transportation Command
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Defense Financial Management and Audit.
  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Fully Networked C3
  • Fully Networked C3 - Command and Control