Logistics Distribution: Key to Operational Success

This book examines the extent to which logistics distribution influences operational art. The study is that distribution is the essential element of logistics that facilitates operational art and that secure lines of communication (LOCs) and infrastructure are the essence of the distribution system.

Theoretical, doctrinal, and historical criteria are used to analyze secure lines of communication and infrastructure to test the thesis. The analyses show the relationship they have to operational art.

These findings have several implications for operational art. LOCs and infrastructure represent real world limitations that coordinated operational and distribution planning can minimize. Secure intratheater and intertheater LOCs are essential requirements for combat operations. Securing LOCs may reduce the number of forces available for operations. Additionally, the time spent securing LOCs gives the enemy the opportunity to improve his combat preparation. When considering branches, operational planners must prepare for unsecured LOCs or the loss of LOC security during the campaign. Operational planners must also ensure the infrastructure can support the concept of operation. This is difficult, but is an essential process. Units essential to the distribution of support must be among the first to deploy in a major regional contingency.

Our army has changed from a forward-deployed to a power projection force. As a result, the importance of distribution is increasing and LOC security will be an absolute requirement. Theory, history and doctrine support this requirement. Furthermore, there is a need t.) increase forwarddeployed logistics bases to provide infrastructure necessary to receive and distribute forces being projected into theater during a crisis. Finally, prepositioned stocks will become increasingly important for a contingency force with a strategy of power projection and crisis response.

The requirement for an effective logistics distribution system is the essence of logistics support to operational art.