Creating a logistics plan - UNITAF Force Manual (FM)

FM/G388 - Creating a logistics plan

Guide

FM/BG-1778 - Early planning

Guide

Early planning is critical for effective logistical operations. Starting early allows risks, constraints, and resource gaps to be addressed before execution.

Key considerations:

Attend briefings
- Understand mission objectives, timelines, and support requirements
Identify resources
- Assess available personnel, vehicles, and supplies
- Coordinate with relevant elements (e.g. leadership)
Plan routes
- Identify primary and alternate supply routes
- Consider terrain, distance, and enemy activity
Assess risk
- Identify threats to movement and resupply
- Develop basic mitigation measures in advance

Guide

FM/BG-1779 - Simple and efficient plans

Guide

Logistical plans should be simple, adaptable, and efficient to remain effective under changing conditions.

Key considerations:

Use available assets effectively
- Match vehicle type and load to the task
- Avoid overloading or underutilising key assets
Maintain flexibility
- Allow for changes in routes, objectives, or availability
Improve resilience
- Mix supply types across vehicles to reduce losses
- Include spare parts, vehicles, and contingency supplies
Reduce reliance on long routes
- Use staging points or distributed supplies to shorten travel distances

Guide

FM/BG-1780 - Effective communication (logistics)

Guide

Clear communication ensures logistical support remains coordinated and responsive.

Key considerations:

Provide clear instructions
- Ensure all elements understand the support plan
Share reference points
- Identify and communicate key locations before execution
Maintain coordination
- Stay in contact with leadership and supporting elements
- Update plans based on changes in the situation

Guide

FM/BG-1781 - Minimising travel delays

Guide

Reducing delays ensures timely delivery of supplies and sustained operational tempo.

Key considerations:

Match transport to task
- Use air for long-distance movement
- Use ground vehicles for local distribution
Select suitable vehicles
- Consider terrain, load capacity, and mobility
Use forward resupply points (FRPs)
- Position close to supported elements
- Reduce turnaround time for resupply
Balance security and efficiency
- Avoid placing logistics in exposed or predictable locations

Guide

FM/BG-1782 - Managing threats in the AO

Guide

Logistical operations must account for threats and integrate protection measures.

Key considerations:

Coordinate security
- Use escorts or combat elements when operating near contested areas
Manage exposure
- Plan routes and timings to reduce contact with enemy forces
Adapt to threats
- Relocate resupply points if necessary
- Adjust routes and methods as the situation evolves

Skill

FM/BS-1783 - Plan a logistical route

Skill

Identify supply origin and destination
Analyse terrain, distance, and likely threats along the route
Select primary and alternate routes
Confirm routes support vehicle type and load
Adjust routes based on changes in the situation

Skill

FM/BS-1784 - Organise vehicle loads

Skill

Identify required supplies based on mission needs
Distribute supplies across available vehicles
Mix supply types to reduce single-point failure
Include critical spares and contingency items
Ensure loads remain within vehicle capacity limits