Logistics model design in military operations other than war/full spectrum operations

Abstract

Quantification of logistics requirements is essential to providing modeling and simulation with adequate logistics capability. Current models and simulations often rely on operator interface to accomplish the prioritization of logistics resources. However, this study shows that logistics requirements can be quantified based on the dimensions; Phase of the Operation, Level of Planning, Level of Support, and the Full Spectrum of Operations (FSO). Believing differences exist in logistics priorities as these dimensions change, an experiment in survey form was given to logistics personnel in military commands as well as civilian relief agencies that have been involved in three types of Peace Operations; Humanitarian Assistance, Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Relief, and Noncombatant Evacuation Operations. The goal was to derive a measure of the relative importance of particular logistics supplies or services in these Operations Other Than War (OOTW). The Method of Equal Appearing Intervals was applied to derive the measure of relative importance. The analytical results show that as factors change in the operation, there is a change in the relative importance of logistics classes. In addition, as the operations change, there are a different set of priorities associated with each mission. The MEAI measurements can be applied directly in decision aids or in modeling and simulation efforts involving OOTW. The recommendations are to expand this approach by refining the survey and expanding the operations to include FSO