Navy Expeditionary Logistics

Abstract

The U.S. Navy, with its expeditionary warfare and logistics capabilities, is increasingly playing a critical role in conflicts involving non-state actors. Given the difficulties faced in expeditionary environments, managing expeditionary logistics is particularly challenging yet critically important today. In this research, we use case study methodology to better understand the current practices and challenges of expeditionary logistics at Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), a subordinate entity of Naval Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC), and to develop a set of concrete recommendations for improving expeditionary logistics processes at EOD. We also study the current definitions of expeditionary logistics to propose a definition better suited for today's challenges, analyze similarities and differences between expeditionary logistics and commercial logistics, and develop concepts for successfully managing expeditionary logistics operations.