The ammunition supply chain and intermodalism : from depot to foxhole

Abstract

The Department of Defense (DoD) has started a modernization effort to support the movement of ammunition and general cargo for contingency operations. This modernization effort includes the procurement of new intermodal containers, container handling equipment, port upgrades and agreements with commercial industry. In order to understand how ammunition can be transported effectively and efficiently, the supply chain must be examined to identify choke points, limitations and short-falls that occur during the ammunition movements from the depot to the "foxhole". This thesis examines the issues affecting the ammunition supply chain within the DoD and the Defense Transportation System. Analysis and recommendations are provided to improve the transportation of ammunition through this system