Autonomic and sense and respond logistics: the 'foxhole to factory to foxhole' continuum of combat service support

Abstract

[Abstract]: As the Australian Defence Force (ADF) embarks upon an ambitious re-equipment program involving strategic procurement of multi-billion dollar platforms, consideration should be given to the enhancement of the logistics supply chain required for the Introduction Into Service (IIS), sustainment and through-life support provided to this technology. A lead can be taken from the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF), to which Australia has so far committed as one of eight international partners. Taking lessons from the civilian arena, principally mining and aviation, Lockheed Martin Corporation, the principle contractor, has augmented the flow of data from embedded key component sensors (Sense and Respond), to link directly to the supply chain, creating an autonomic, “foxhole to factory to foxhole”, logistics continuum. This paper argues however, that caution needs to be exercised lest Local Operational Analysis Decisions (LOADs) tasking equipment become subserviant and overlooked, potentially jeopardising the application of battle-space effects and mission success. Experience gained on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan by the United States Marine Corps will be used to illustrate potential benefits and pitfalls in the application of autonomic logistics concepts. Recognition of the advantages of autonomic logistics can then be used as inputs into the Military Integrated Logistics Information System (MILIS) and ultimately, to inform the Army Capability Development Continuum (ACDC).