Innovation plays a crucial role in the evolution of military logistics, enabling nations to effectively address new and emerging threats while maintaining the ability to deter aggression. This perspective was shared by Army Brig. Gen. Stephanie Q. Howard, the Executive Director of Operational Contract Support for the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment (OUSD A&S), on the anniversary of 9/11.
During the Defense Logistics Agency’s 4th annual Industry Collider Day, Gen. Howard emphasized the importance of being prepared on the logistics front to deter potential adversaries from engaging in aggression. She highlighted the significance of ensuring that essential logistics support, including supply parts, uniforms, and ammunition, is readily available to military personnel. This readiness not only contributes to military deterrence but also aligns with the National Defense Strategy’s fourth priority of building a resilient joint force and ecosystem.
Gen. Howard stressed that traditional processes are no longer sufficient, and successful outcomes require partnerships with small businesses and other stakeholders. She emphasized the need for agility and speed in delivering critical capabilities to the warfighter, emphasizing that delays of even a few years can be detrimental.
Reflecting on the pivotal role of logistics in military operations, Gen. Howard quoted Gen. Dwight Eisenhower, highlighting that logistics often determine the outcome of battles and campaigns.
Gen. Howard acknowledged the challenges inherent in military logistics, especially in the face of unexpected demands and supply chain disruptions. While some may draw parallels between military logistics and models used by companies like Amazon and FedEx, she noted that the dynamics and demands of military operations differ significantly.
She encouraged participants to explore innovative concepts and solutions, many of which are already in progress, to meet the unique demands of military logistics. Gen. Howard emphasized the importance of connecting with organizations like the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) to discover how capabilities can align with the needs of the warfighter.
Reflecting on the events of 9/11 and the subsequent shift in military focus, Gen. Howard highlighted the rapid increase in demands for military equipment, including trucks, ships, uniforms, and supply parts. She acknowledged the challenges in ramping up production and innovation to meet these new demands.
Gen. Howard also discussed the evolution of military logistics during counterinsurgency operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, where the military adopted more agile approaches, integrated commercial off-the-shelf equipment, and relied on commercial transportation for supply movement.
Looking ahead, Gen. Howard emphasized the importance of preparing for new conflicts that may involve force-to-force engagements. She identified additive manufacturing and artificial intelligence as key technologies that will play a pivotal role in the future of military logistics. She stressed the urgency of accelerating the deployment of these technologies to better support the warfighter, emphasizing that traditional processes are no longer sufficient in meeting the evolving demands of military operations.
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