Logistics and Nonlinearity: A Philosophical Dilemma

摘要

This monograph discusses the dilemma that current logistical thinking anddoctrine face as they enter the 21st Century. Current logistical thinking is grounded in the structures, organizations, strategy, and equipment of the Cold War. As the Army moves into the era of information age technology this model is no longer valid. This monograph asks if the U.S. Army needs to change the fundamental way it thinks about logistics in order to meet the requirements of the 21st Century. This monograph first examines the historical basis of the U.S. Army's current logistical doctrine. It then examines the changing world situation that this doctrine faces. Next, it analyzes the adequacy of current doctrine to lead logistics into the 21st Century, with special emphasis on the theoretical foundations of logistical theory. Finally, this monograph discusses some shortfall in current logistical theory and makes some recommendations for how this theory can be improved in order to meet the demands of information age warfare in the 21st Century. These improvements in theory will assist logisticians in meeting the demands of a changing army.