Sustainment of Stand-In Forces: Analysis of Contracting Capabilities in Support of 3d Marine Littoral Regiment

Abstract

The purpose of this Master of Business Administration professional project is to explore challenges in, and possible process or product improvements to, contracting support for stand-in forces such as 3d Marine Littoral Regiment (3d MLR). Operational contract support (OCS) and contingency contracting play a crucial role in providing nonorganic support to units training for and operating in contested environments. However, Blythe's 2020 research indicates that the Marine Corps may experience delays in fulfilling contracted requirements at the tactical level beyond the period of self-sustainment. This study reviews the potential impact of current force initiatives and emerging concepts on the logistical planners and contracting facilitators of stand-in forces. A literature review of current research and other published works on the topics of OCS and contingency contracting informs the project and identifies areas for further exploration. The project utilizes Yoder’s Three Integrated Pillars for Success (TIPS) model as the underpinning theoretical framework from which process analysis is performed. The principles of lean thinking are applied to value stream mapping and root cause analysis of qualitative data gathered for the study. Ultimately, the project identifies several key findings concerning the contracting personnel, platforms, and protocols that support 3d MLR and provides recommendations to improve the contracting support process or products.