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In the first of two articles on joint theater logistics concepts for the U.S. European Command area of responsibility, the author reviews the need for centralized logistics command and control.
Department of Defense (DOD) logistics transformation efforts and evolving joint and combined operational concepts have increased expectations for dramatically improved logistics operations through more effective, efficient, and responsive use of available theater resources. The planned force drawdown in Europe will cause the U.S. European Command (EUCOM) service components to depend increasingly on one another for logistics support. The service components can no longer afford to retain redundant force structure where joint efficiencies can be gained. However, providing joint logistics presents problems that must be addressed to ensure that joint logistics operations are effective and efficient.
Joint Logistics Problems
Findings from a variety of joint and service-sponsored assessments cite shortcomings to operational effectiveness because there is no joint theater logistics command or management capability. Relevant observations from the Office of the secretary of Defense, the Joint Staff, the U.S. Joint Forces Command, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Deployment and Distribution Operations Center, the Defense Science Board, and the Army Science Board can be summarized in the following five categories-
* Lack of a joint logistics organization to ensure that joint logistics functions are executed in support of the theater. Joint Publication (JP) 4.0, Doctrine for Logistic Support of Joint Operations, outlines joint theater-level logistics functions, including supply; maintenance; transportation; civil engineering; health services; and other services, such as life support, postal, and finance. However, execution of these functions is typically characterized by "ad hocery" and discovery learning.
* Lack of a theater-level logistics commander. The combatant commander (COCOM) is responsible for theater-level logistics functions, but no subordinate commander is charged with executing that mission. A joint theater logistics commander is needed to provide theater logistics command and control, thereby freeing the COCOM and his J-4 to plan and coordinate long-range effects. Without an empowered logistics commander, the COCOM has no assurance that logistics operations are effectively monitored, executed, and managed and optimizing joint logistics capabilities in the theater is difficult, if not impossible.
* Inability to execute directive authority for logistics (DAFL). DAFL is a unique component of COCOM authority. Effective joint logistics cannot...