Security Assistance; and Logistics - Federation of American Scientists

Part IV – Logistics SustainabilityIntroductionThe effort to help Iraq Security Forces (ISF) develop their logistics sustainmentcapability has faced numerous and formidable obstacles. Among these have been:• Lack of formal codification of Iraqi logistics processes resulting in inconsistentunderstanding and enforcement of the processes throughout the ISF• A non-responsive equipment and parts distribution system that limits growth ofother logistics capacities• Lack of consistent reconciliation practices leading to distribution weaknesses• Commanders’ routine use of ad hoc procedures to expedite resupply• Undeveloped and immature reporting processes• Corruption concerns that force centralized control from the top• High illiteracy rate that hinders development of logistics capabilities• Dependence on a paper-driven supply systemWhile it has made some notable progress, the Coalition effort to develop the logisticscapability of the ISF has progressed slowly. Previously, the focus of ISF capabilitydevelopment by the Coalition had been on generating the force – establishing the armyand police forces – and the associated training capability needed to maintain those forces.The generation of logistics personnel and logistics capabilities had significantly laggedthat of building the base of the army and police forces. In the recent past, when trainedlogistics personnel did report to combat units, they were often reassigned to infantryduties because manning the combat units was the priority emphasis. Given the U.S.willingness to provide key default logistics services when the ISF was incapable of doingso, dependence on the Coalition became a common approach to logistics support for theISF.In some areas, the ISF has gradually become more competent and self-sufficient.Requirements for Coalition logistics assistance during recent Iraqi-led operationsindicated progress in mobilizing and delivering logistics support at a distance, but alsohighlighted ISF limitations in planning and conducting sustained expeditionary lifesupport. Most significantly, however, there appears to have been a fundamental changein attitude toward the development of logistics sustainment capability for the ISF – bothby the ISF and the Coalition.69