Inland Petroleum Distribution System (IPDS): Can It Fuel the Force

摘要

Petroleum is the largest class of supply by volume transported on the battlefield and also one of the most critical logistical operations to execute In addition to providing fuel where it is needed, when it is needed and in the volume it is needed, any viable bulk petroleum support concept must incorporate the principles of standardization, flexibility, and inter-operability. Considering the war fighting forces' emphasis upon speed, mobility, and agility the Inland Petroleum Distribution System (IPDS) is the most effective method of providing bulk petroleum available today. However, without improvements in its design, capacity and inter-operability, the ability of IPDS to meet future demands of fuel distribution for the total force is questionable. This paper discusses logistics transformation initiatives in the Army Strategic Logistics Plan (ASLP), service responsibilities for bulk petroleum support in general and, specifically the IPDS. It evaluates how effectively IPDS' incorporates the principles of standardization, flexibility and inter-operability, discusses the advantages and disadvantages of IPDS in this new strategic environment and also looks at a new bulk petroleum distribution system currently under development, the Rapidly Installed Fuel Transfer System (RIFTS).