Optimizing the DoD Supply Chain for the Future Joint Force
Abstract
The future Joint Force will engage in an operating environment that is a complex mixture of uncertainty, change, and conflict. In addition, global access will be challenged by anti-access and area-denial measures that aim to limit the Joint Force's freedom of action in combat, security, engagement, and relief and reconstruction operations. Furthermore, resource constraints will produce military-wide reductions and necessitate a more economical approach to global logistics. Global logistics must effectively sustain the Joint Force. Key factors in the success or failure of global logistics are the effectiveness and efficiency of the logistics enterprise, of which the supply chain is an enabling capability. Unfortunately, the current Department of Defense (DoD) supply chain has reached its highest potential, and is neither effective nor efficient enough to meet the requirements of the Joint Force in a future operating environment. Therefore, a new emphasis is needed to achieve an optimal fit between the national defense strategy and the supply chain strategy. The optimal fit will be made possible by changes in DoD logistics policy, strategy, organizational structure, management, and processes. The breadth and depth of these changes will only be possible through a re-focusing of DoD logistics towards the end-to-end supply chain. Additionally, best business practices in the commercial sector must continue to be adopted and adapted to the military environment, thereby providing benchmarks that will position the DoD supply chain on the leading edge of global logistics. With these changes, the DoD supply chain will be optimized to support the future Joint Force in a complex and challenging operating environment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA581232
Entities
People
- Matthew B. Reuter
Organizations
- National Defense University