Logistics is one of the most critical factors in determining warfighting success. Today, U.S. adversaries are working to undermine the nation’s ability to transport forces and equipment to areas of need, and according to Gen. Jacqueline Van Ovost, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command, a strong network of partners is crucial to combating these threats.
“We affectionately refer to them as our ‘fourth component command’ because they are a force multiplier for us in competition and in conflict,” she said in a Brookings Institution webinar.
Van Ovost will kick off the Potomac Officers Club’s Preparing for the Contested Logistics Era Forum with a keynote address, during which she will offer even more of her insights on TRANSCOM’s strategies for success in the contested logistics arena. To learn more about the event, which will convene experts in the field to discuss the challenges and opportunities surrounding contested logistics on Sept. 14, click here.
Click here to register to attend!
TRANSCOM’s partner network encompasses a wide range of entities, including U.S. government organizations, private sector companies and international allies, and the command is continuously connecting with these collaborators to identify the best possible strategies for tackling logistics challenges.
Within the Department of Defense, TRANSCOM staff recently met with the North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command personnel to consider how the three commands can better integrate homeland security and global power projection demands, advocate for key infrastructure resourcing and carry out patient movement responsibilities within the continental U.S.
In March, Van Ovost met with legislative and senior military leaders at the 14th Annual Defense Programs Conference, during which she highlighted the role of logistics in all military operations.
“Regardless of the mission, success depends on a nation’s capacity to transport and supply its forces,” she emphasized.
On the industry side, TRANSCOM recently issued multiple major contracts, including a $1.5 billion indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity award to facilitate domestic and international shipments of hefty defense equipment. The command also expanded its Multimodal Transportation Program contract with a $178 million modification, under which 11 companies will provide door-to-door and port-to-door services.
Looking to the future, TRANSCOM hosted an Industry Day event in May to assess potential industry offerings that could enhance DOD in-transit visibility capabilities for an advantage in contested logistics.
In June, TRANSCOM took a step forward in cultivating international relationships with its attendance at the 2023 International Logistics Symposium, which connected individuals from 43 nations to tackle common logistics challenges and consider the ways in which they can work together to eliminate barriers.
Van Ovost noted the impressive teamwork she witnessed at the event and in overall shared efforts.
Don’t miss your chance to hear even more of Van Ovost’s insights on TRANSCOM’s role in contested logistics! Click here to register for the Potomac Officers Club’s Preparing for the Contested Logistics Era Forum.
