An Examination and Evaluation of the NATO Maintenance and supply Organization.

A current United States foreign policy objective is to increase the self-sufficiency of other free-world nations through military aid programs. However, such programs require dependence on U. S. sources. The authors contend that, to be self-sufficient, nations, should be capable of providing a majority of defense requirements from within their own industrial, economic and technological base. Within NATO, the NATO Maintenance and Supply Organization NAMSO exists to provide effective logistics support for common weapons systems and equipment operated by two or more NATO countries at minimum cost to those countries. This concept of operation appears to contribute member country self-sufficiency. The authors examine the history, purpose, structure and functions of NAMSO and evaluate the effectiveness of NAMSO in meeting its stated mission and objectives, and in contributing to the self-sufficiency of its members. The authors develop eight overall goals which form the basis for the NAMSO evaluation. It is concluded that, while NAMSO has contributed to member self-sufficiency, changing circumstances should cause NAMSO to reevaluate its role in providing future services to customers. Several recommendations toward this end are offered. Author