Measuring Combat Logistics Force (CLF) Adequacy in Supporting Naval Operations

Abstract

We uses the existing outputs of the Combat Logistics Force (CLF) Planner tool to (1) assess the minimum level of support required for a specified force in a multi-stage naval combat scenario and (2) compare CLF adequacy, surplus mission capability, and logistics shortfalls that a minimum level of support provides to combat forces of varying compositions. We examine the potential impact of the transition from a traditional nuclear-powered aircraft carrier strike group to a more distributed conventionally-powered one. We find that the logistical demands of a small conventionally powered carrier strike group with comparable striking power require significant increases in CLF end strength, and therefore that logistical supportability must be an integral part of future fleet planning.