Assessment of logistical support for expeditionary units

Abstract

The purpose of this MBA Professional Report is to study the current state of expeditionary logistical support in the Navy and to identify logistical challenges faced in expeditionary environments. Expeditionary supply chain or logistics refers to the activities and capabilities needed to provide operational units in an expeditionary environment with services and supplies such as fuel, food, water, ammunition, etc. An expeditionary supply chain also includes responsibilities such as establishment of ports of embarkation and debarkation, container management, financial management, and inventory and distribution management. Two hypothetical case studies illustrating the current logistic challenges facing the Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Naval Special Warfare communities are presented in this report. Strategic management and supply chain management theories and techniques are used to analyze these challenges and to provide specific recommendations for areas of improvement. This study then identifies opportunities for further study concerning the Naval Logistics Support System for Expeditionary Forces.