Overview

Logistics is the boring stuff that wins wars. It’s bullets, beans, and bandages. It’s getting the right stuff to the right place at the right time.

Core Idea

The core idea is Sustainment. An army marches on its stomach. Without logistics, a tank is just a heavy metal box.

Formal Definition

The detailed coordination of a complex operation involving many people, facilities, or supplies.

Intuition

  • The Iceberg: Combat is the tip. Logistics is the 90% underwater. For every soldier shooting, there are 10 driving trucks, cooking food, and fixing radios.
  • The Pipeline: You need a constant flow of fuel. If the pipeline breaks, the offensive stops.

Examples

  • Napoleon: Failed in Russia because he outran his logistics (scorched earth).
  • D-Day: The Mulberry Harbours (artificial ports) were a logistical miracle.
  • Gulf War: The “Left Hook” was possible because of GPS and massive logistical capability.

Common Misconceptions

  • Misconception: It’s easy.
    • Correction: It is mathematically incredibly hard (Traveling Salesman Problem).
  • Misconception: Amateurs talk strategy; professionals talk logistics.
    • Correction: (General Omar Bradley). It’s true.

Applications

  • Business: Amazon is a logistics company.
  • Disaster Relief: Getting food to earthquake victims.

Criticism and Limitations

  • Vulnerability: Supply lines are the favorite target of guerrillas.

Further Reading

  • Supplying War by Martin van Creveld