Art or Science: Operational Logistics as Applied to Op Art

摘要

Since Logistics provides the direct, physical means to our ability to conduct military functions and tasks in order to reach goals and achieve objectives; shouldn't we view Operational Logistics an art form rather than an algebraic sequence of events providing material and services. Viewing Operational Logistics through the lens of The Factors of Operational Art; Time, Space, and Force, is a useful method for ascertaining the artistic nature of logistics. Time, distance and physical means apply to everything that happens in war from the strategic to the tactical. Being able to measure these factors and ascertain the best course of action is critical to Operational Art. By applying modern operational art tenets, the three Operational Factors and the Principles of War, it is quite evident that Operational Logistics is as integral part the operational planning and execution process as is the other warfighting functions such as maneuver, fires, and intelligence. Plans will be better formulated and better risk decisions are made the earlier we incorporate the ways and means of military operations as a method during the planning process.