FM 4-0, Sustainment - GlobalSecurity.org

Chapter 4Figure 4-2 .Elements of Full Spectrum OperationsOFFENSIVE OPERATIONS4-14. Offensive operations are defined as combat operations conducted to defeat and destroy enemy forcesand seize terrain, resources, and population centers. They impose the commander’s will on the enemy (seeFM 3-0). Sustainment of offensive operations is high in intensity. Commanders and staffs plan for increasedrequirements and demands on sustainment. Sustainment planners work closely with other WFF staffs todetermine the scope of the operations and develop estimates for quantity and types of support required. Theyanticipate where the greatest need might occur and develop a priority of support. Sustainment planners mayconsider positioning sustainment units in close proximity to operations to reduce response times for criticalsupport. They also consider alternative methods for delivering sustainment in emergency situations.4-15. To maintain momentum and freedom of action, coordination between staff planners must becontinuous. During offensive operations, certain requirements present special challenges. The most importantmateriel is typically fuel (Class III Bulk) and ammunition (Class V), Class VII, movement control, and medicalevacuation. Based on planning assessments, sustainment commanders direct the movement of these and othersupport to meet anticipated requirements.4-16. Another challenge in planning for and sustaining an offensive operation is the lengthened lines ofcommunication (LOCs). Widely dispersed forces, longer LOCs, and congested road networks increase stress ontransportation systems. As a result, a combination of ground and aerial delivery maybe planned toaccommodate the distribution. Distribution managers and movement control units synchronize movement plansand priorities according to the commander’s priority of support. Distribution must be closely coordinated andtracked to ensure delivery of essential support. The routing function of movement control becomes an essentialprocess for coordinating and directing movements on main supply routes or alternate supply routes, andregulating movement on LOCs to prevent conflict and congestion.4-17. Higher casualty rates associated with offensive operations increase the requirement of medicalresources. Plans to position medical support close to operations to facilitate treatment and evacuation areconsidered. If increased casualty rates overwhelm medical resources, nonmedical transportation assets may beneeded for evacuation. Another planning consideration may be moving combat and operational stress controlteams to support combat stress casualties following operations.4-18. Higher casualty rates also increase the emphasis on personnel accountability, casualty reports, andreplacement operations. G-1s and S-1s plan for accurate tracking of casualties and replacements throughcoordination with Casualty Liaison Teams (CLTs) and the HRSC.4-4 FM 4-0 30 April 2009