Fuel Logistics Platform Requirements to Support Distributed Maritime Operations in the Indo-Pacific area of Responsibility

Abstract

This project focuses on determining the current fuel requirements of the force and comparing them against current organic and contracted capabilities, culminating in a recommended fuel distribution concept to move fuel into theater. Research includes a comparison of JP-5 and its previously identified benefits as the single Navy fuel source against traditional dual fuel, while leveraging the NPS-developed fuel consumption tool Fuel Usage Study Extended Demonstration (FUSED). The replenishment at sea planner (RASP) is then used to optimize delivery schedules. Assumptions made result in a scenario where fuel is having to be transported from the west coast of the U.S. by medium-range and long-range commercial tankers to the Combat Logistics Forces at an afloat fuel consolidation (CONSOL) station within the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) area of responsibility (AOR). Our research ultimately addresses the concern for our scenario that based on FUSED demand data, and RASP optimization, the Department of Defense could support initial phases of Distributed Maritime Operations during a potential conflict, when traditional refueling points are potentially denied.