Principles of Logistics and the Air Force's Combat Support

The purpose of this paper is to look at the new transformation of Air Force logistics in the concept of Combat Support and determine if the phased manner in which combat support is provided to the forces in the field and analyze whether or not these concepts include the principles of logistics. The methodology used was to look at the governing doctrine of logistics within the joint community and the individual services. It then looked at the Air Force doctrine for combat support. It then sighted several examples of successes and failures in various operations. Overall findings were that the systems set up for the distribution of equipment and supplies are transforming in a positive way and will only enhance the combatant commander's operation in the future. The biggest problems appear to be in the procurement side, where the civilian sector is not providing the best resources for the troops either because technology is not available or cost effective.