Analysis of Fuel Tanker Vessels Available in a Dual Multi-Theater War (MTW)

摘要

This thesis develops a database and makes projections of fuel tanker vessels available between now and 2010 that can support U.S. forces in wartime. The United States Transportation Command and Military Sealift Command must ensure there are sufficient fuel tanker vessels to transport fuel to the forces in a dual multi-theater war (MTW). Once the available assets are known, then DoD can determine the adequacy of the number of vessels based on the fuel requirements. These vessels are of two categories: DoD organic assets and commercial fuel tanker assets. What this thesis shows is that DoD assets will remain virtually the same for the next ten years but the number of U.S.-flag tanker vessels will decline dramatically. In a dual MTW scenario there will not be enough DoD or U.S.-flag tanker vessels available to meet demand. DoD must consider an alternative policy of outsourcing to foreign flag vessels for the delivery of fuel products to U.S. Armed Forces during war.