Contested Logistics as an evolution of military logistics using technological tools

Abstract

The research paper dives deeply into the concept of contested logistics in military operations, stressing the critical importance of maintaining resilient, agile, and technologically advanced logistics to ensure operational success in conflict environments where supply lines are vulnerable to active threats and interference.

The study employs an exploratory and descriptive methodology, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative analyses. It also conducts an extensive bibliometric analysis using the VOSviewer tool to create a detailed map of documents and key thematic areas. This method helps identify the recent emergence and growth of the "contested logistics" field and its significance in planning new strategies in competitive contexts.

"Contested logistics" is defined as logistical operations facing active interference in conflict or strategic competition scenarios. The identified challenges include supply line disruptions, multi-domain threats (air, sea, land, cyberspace, and space), vulnerabilities in logistical planning and management, and the impact of specific geographical and operational contexts. The study underscores the need for resilience strategies, technological innovation, and deception tactics to ensure supply continuity under constant threat.

The research outlines several strategies to adapt to these challenges, emphasizing collaboration with allies, adopting autonomous and resilient capabilities, and developing innovative solutions. It highlights the importance of anticipating and adapting to disruptions through constant innovation. The paper also compares logistics in commercial and military contexts, focusing on coordinated decision-making and the impact of non-military actors on logistics operations.

The study advocates for modernizing military logistical capabilities by implementing advanced technologies and agile strategies to optimize operations in hostile environments. Specific examples of tangible components and operational strategies include the use of autonomous and unmanned supply delivery vehicles, real-time inventory management systems, joint power projection, logistic collaboration in coalitions, and international cooperation for supply.

Historical instances, such as the Liberty Ship program during World War II and the development of new concepts for distributed maritime operations by the U.S. Navy, are cited to illustrate how advanced logistical planning can address contemporary challenges in contested logistics.

The paper stresses the need for a unified logistical planning process to ensure operational continuity under adverse conditions, considering interactions between military forces and various actors, including enemies, strategic partners, and own troops. It discusses the impact of technological evolution on logistical operations and the importance of integrated and coordinated planning processes.

The study recommends prioritizing research and development in logistics solutions, employing autonomous systems and machine learning algorithms, strengthening cybersecurity, and integrating non-governmental and commercial entities in logistics planning. It emphasizes the creation of alternate supply routes, optimizing transportation, and bolstering command and control systems. Overall, the document presents a comprehensive framework for addressing the challenges of contested logistics in military operations, combining material (infrastructure and technologies) with operational (strategies) elements to enhance sustainability, adaptability, and collaboration.