Much like any industry, the military is akin to a living organism. Growth, development, and adaptability are necessary to respond to technological and administrative changes, and more importantly, threats to our systems. In this dynamic environment, one of the most pressing challenges is ensuring that logistical support remains uninterrupted and effective, even under hostile conditions. This is where the concept of Contested Logistics comes into play, fundamentally altering the landscape of military strategy and operations. Understanding and mastering Contested Logistics is essential for maintaining the agility and resilience required to succeed in modern warfare.
Contested Logistics refers to the strategic and operational hurdles faced when external actors attempt to disrupt and degrade the supply chains and logistical support systems that are crucial for sustaining military operations. This includes attacks on supply lines, cyber interference, and the physical targeting of logistical hubs. This concept is helping to shape military strategy by emphasizing the need for flexibility, technological innovation, and advanced planning. The ability to maintain a continuous flow of supplies and reinforcements under adverse conditions can determine the success or failure of military operations.
Contested Logistics in the Future of Combat
The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) utilize contested logistics through three avenues: Point of need, repair depots, and engineering support/R&D. Each of these avenues contain the necessary elements to carry out logistical functions in real-time, such as battlefield damage and repair, maintenance and sustainment, and engineering changes. The DoD also identifies four cross-cutting functions that impact each avenue: Policy, data and cyber, education and training, and safety.
As military strategies evolve, Contested Logistics will play a pivotal role in shaping new doctrines. The focus will shift towards decentralized and flexible supply chains that can quickly adapt to changing battlefield conditions. This may involve the use of advanced technologies such as autonomous vehicles, drones, and artificial intelligence to predict, identify, and mitigate logistical threats. Additionally, the integration of real-time data analytics will enable military planners to make informed decisions, optimizing supply routes and minimizing vulnerabilities.
How NJII’s Defense Division Plays a Role
NJII’s Defense Division is at the forefront of addressing the challenges posed by Contested Logistics. The Collaborative Operationalized Manufacturing Engineering and Training (COMET) Program supports the DoD by providing workforce development and training for specialized equipment and specific circumstances. For example, COMET supported the DoD’s first-of-its-kind Point of Need Manufacturing Challenge in 2023, which consisted of various advanced manufacturing training tasks in a simulated extreme cold weather environment.
NJII’s relationships with private and public military organizations make us a key contributor to autonomous supply systems, communication and security networks, and technological operations for the U.S. Army. By staying at the cutting edge of technological advancements, NJII is poised to play a vital role in ensuring the effectiveness and sustainability of military operations in increasingly complex and contested environments.
To learn more about how NJII’s Defense Division is pioneering innovative solutions to meet the challenges of Contested Logistics and enhance military readiness, visit our Defense Division homepage.