Distribution-Based Supply System: Will It Provide More Effective Support to the Warfighter

摘要

The study conducts a comparative analysis between the stockpile-based logistics system used in the Gulf War and the developing distribution-based logistics system which is the cornerstone of Joint Vision 2010's focused logistics. The primary research question answered is: Will a distribution-based supply system provide more effective supply support to the warfighter in a major theater of war scenario. Two subordinate research questions are: How lean, in terms of personnel, organizations, infrastructure, inventory, and budget can this distribution-based system be before it is ineffective. What metrics will be used to determine the system's effectiveness. Transforming the supply system into a distribution-based supply system force requires major changes in doctrine, organization, and mindset such as inventories in the distribution- based supply system, small temporary inventories of fast-moving supply lines and intransit materiel. When a system does not have visibility of what it contains, efficient management is not possible. Thus, information or asset visibility is a key to efficient distribution. Knowing what is in the system and where it is allows operators to make timely decisions.