A contextual analysis of the Combined Service: a significant component of the Military Sealift Command's breakbulk capability.

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the Combined Service, a five ship scheduled breakbulk shipping operation, managed by the Military Sealift Command, Pacific. The object is to define the operation within the context of U.S. breakbulk requirements and worldwide breakbulk assets so as to provide a broader perspective to military decision makers. The research effort is directed at identifying major internal and external environmental factors impacting the Combined Service. Once these factors are addressed from a general perspective, their significance is specifically related to the Combined Service. The conclusion notes five trends observed throughout the analysis that should be considered when determining future utilization of limited Q.S. breakbulk assets.