Evolution of Revolution: Application of Information Technology in MilitaryLogistics

摘要

Force sustainment has evolved over the decades from collecting spoils to foragingto individual sustainment and finally to one of centralized support. Over time, the introduction of new technologies like storage containers for food preservation, the wheel for transporting supplies, the gasoline engine for transport power, and the airplane with with jet engines have contributed dramatically to revolutionizing logistical support to armies throughout the world. We have shortened the resupply time through various process improvements. Through FORCE XXI we are applying information technology to further decrease our response time for critically needed support by providing a greater battlespace awareness to the combat commander on the ground. We have brought supplies closer to the user through a faster and more responsive acquisition and 'just in time' supply distribution system. Is this enough or can we do better. This study argues the terribly important need for yet another technological breakthrough to achieve a real revolution in military logistics.