Fueling the Force: Can the Division Support Command (DISCOM) Provide SufficientPetroleum Support to Sustain a Heavy Division in the Offense

摘要

This monograph examines the problem of providing fuel support in the heavydivision during offensive operations. The study recognizes the important role of fuel support in the generation and sustainment of combat power. Yet, it also recognizes that sustainment systems have not kept pace with advances in combat systems. The study posits that the heavy division's support comand (DISCOM) does not have sufficient organic fuel support capability to sustain the division during offensive operations. The investigation includes a study of the WWII armored division and its fuel support concepts. It examines the implementation of these concepts during the 6th Armored Division's offensive in the Brittany Peninsula. Similarly, the monograph explores the modern heavy division's fuel support concepts and its execution during Operation Desert Storm. Both experiences revealed a shortfall in fuel support capability due to insufficient equipment and inadequate support concepts.