CONTESTED LOGISTICS ENVIRONMENT
CONTESTED LOGISTICS ENVIRONMENT

Author(s): Eduard Răzvan ȘOUCALIUC, Anca Ecaterina CANDALE, Cristina LEȘAN, Raul TURIC
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Politics, Security and defense
Published by: Carol I National Defence University Publishing House
Keywords: contested logistics environment; supply chain; logistics decentralization; logistics hub; cybersecurity; artificial intelligence; civil-military cooperation;
Summary/Abstract: The article aim is to analyzes the concept of "contested logistic environment" in the modern context of military operations, highlighting the associated challenges and strategies and to identify possible solutions to mitigate these challenges. Traditionally, NATO forces, especially US forces, have benefited from uncontested logistics, but recent conflicts, such as Russia's invasion of Ukraine and tensions in the Indo-Pacific, have changed this paradigm. The contested logistics environment involves attacks on supply lines, infrastructure and cyber networks, creating major difficulties in conducting military operations. Key factors that contribute to challenging logistics are explored, including kinetic threats, cyber-attacks, competition for resources and the complexity of multinational operations. Also presented are adaptive strategies for operating in such environments, such as decentralization of logistics, use of advanced technologies, operational flexibility, and collaboration with local entities. Finally, the article uses the case study methodology with the purpose to identify solution on the “contested logistic environment” in the Ukraine conflict in order to demonstrates the importance of decentralized logistics, the use of emerging technologies and the support of allies in maintaining an efficient logistics flow. The lessons learned from this conflict emphasize the need for innovation and resilience in managing military logistics in contested environments.

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