Accession Number:

ADA279587

Title:

Raiding Logistics: The Low Cost Alternative to Fighting Fair

Descriptive Note:

Final rept.

Corporate Author:

NAVAL WAR COLL NEWPORT RI DEPT OF OPERATIONS

Personal Author(s):

• Salmon, Blake E.

Report Date:

1994-02-08

Pagination or Media Count:

43.0

Abstract:

The raiding of U.S. logistic elements may be the most advantageous approach for an enemy to take. Through the use of small elite or irregular forces an opponent can dramatically effect military operations at a very low cost. Examples of this can be seen in the American Civil War, World War I, and World War II. Statistically, medium sized forces comprised of elite military individuals have been very successful at conducting commando raids. Logistic operations are highly susceptible to this form of warfare because of inherent operational choke points and reliance on critical commodities. Protecting the rear area is of utmost concern to the Joint Rear Area Commander JRAC. He must be able to detect, deter and if necessary defeat the enemy forces. The use of deception, dispersal and duplication are invaluable in countering the enemys actions. To adequately defend the rear area Combat Support Service CSS personnel must be properly trained, equipped, and staffed. Future commando raids will be more formidable then ever. The JRAC will need to rely heavily on counterintelligence assets to guarantee the survival of logistic facilities and commodities.

Descriptors:

• *MILITARY OPERATIONS
• *LOW COSTS
• *LOGISTICS
• WARFARE
• COMBAT SUPPORT
• FACILITIES
• COSTS
• GUARANTEES
• PERSONNEL
• ENEMY
• DECEPTION
• COMMODITIES
• REAR AREAS
• COUNTERINTELLIGENCE
• RAIDS

Subject Categories:

• Administration and Management
• Logistics, Military Facilities and Supplies
• Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE