Operational Sustainment in an Immature Theater: Considerations for Planning and Sustaining a Campaign in a Mid- to High-Intensity Conflict

Our last experience with the sustainment of operational forces in a conflict within an area of operations was nearly two decades ago. Our most recent experiences in contingency operations have failed to stress our operational sustainment activities. The impetus for this monograph is the realization that the United States may have to introduce and sustain forces in a mid- to high-intensity conflict within an immature theater. This monograph examines the considerations an operational commander must contemplate to successfully sustain his force. The study begins by establishing a framework for addressing operational sustainment and the context in which it will apply. From this established point of departure, the influence of theory on the evolution of operational sustainment is examined. Classical and contemporary theorists each offered considerations to sustainment practices. To validate the theories put forth, three World War II campaigns were examined to investigate how the theories of operational sustainment were applied and their impact on the outcome of the campaign. Recognizing the powerful insights history offers as to the role of sustainment operations in the outcome of the campaign, a scenario involving the U.S. in a mid- to high-intensity conflict was developed based on the assessment of the current threat. Considerations for sustaining an operational force were then addressed using the framework developed. The monograph concludes that the theories set forth by the classical and contemporary theorists are still valid. The historical cases cited revealed all elements of the sustainment framework must be considered, but the performance of those operations inherent with the arming, fueling, and transporting functions were essential for success. Today's operational commander must maintain his focus on those areas.