Flattening of Sustainment: The Interaction of Technology, Information, Force Structure, and the Emergence of Operational Logistics
Abstract
The United States' military power and capabilities are singularly enabled by unequaled sustainment capability and reach of our transportation and logistics systems. The current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan are highlighting an emerging trend in the operational level of logistics seen in the flattening of Command and Control (C2), theater distribution and the increased use contracted sustainment of operational formations across both Iraq and Afghanistan. Combatant Commanders continue to exercise the authority to maximize logistics resources in their respective theaters to enable favorable Tooth to Tail Ratios (T3R) focused on Combat Forces. The unintended consequence is the shifting of many strategic sustainment capabilities to the operational level of logistics. This shifting of capabilities is making the operational level of sustainment an agent of change. The reduction of the strategic sustainment and industrial base to a reactive provider of logistics and the reduction of the tactical sustainment of units in "the last 1000 yards" to the foxhole will have unintended consequences.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 21, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA505045
Entities
People
- Patrick K. Curran
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College