CHAPTER 2. THEATER ORGANIZATIONS - GlobalSecurity.org · CHAPTER 2. THEATER ORGANIZATIONS The theater logistic environment contains many organizations that have potential roles and

CHAPTER 2. THEATER ORGANIZATIONS

The theater logistic environment contains manyorganizations that have potential roles and respon-sibilities during expeditionary operations. Theemphasis on joint and multinational cooperationhas spawned multilevel joint, multinational, andService military structures that interrelate horizon-tally and vertically. These organizations provideMarine Corps operational logisticians choices forsourcing resources. The MARFOR is at the centerof converging chains of command, levels of war,and lateral relationships.

Marine Corps Forces

The Marine Corps either assigned or designated aMARFOR for each of the five unified combatantcommands. The MARFOR is responsible for pro-viding administrative and logistic support to theMarine Corps operating forces. Table 2-1 lists theunified combatant commands and their subordi-nate MARFOR.

Commander, Marine Corps Forces, Pacific

Figure 2-1 on page 2-2 shows the forces underCOMMARFORPAC.

Commander, Marine Corps Forces, Atlantic

Figure 2-2 on page 2-3 shows the forces underCOMMARFORLANT.

Logistic Authority and Support Arrangements

Understanding the different source documentsthat direct common-user logistics (CUL) and the

tools to facilitate common support is essential tounderstanding theater logistics external to theMarine Corps.

Sources

These sources include DOD executive agentdirectives and instructions, inter-Service andintra-governmental support agreements, acquisi-tion and cross-Service agreements, and jointpublications (JPs) (e.g., JP 0-2, Unified ActionArmed Forces [UNAAF]; JP 4-0, Doctrine forLogistic Support of Joint Operations), and JFCoperation plans (OPLANs)/operation orders(OPORDs) and directives.

Table 2-1. Combatant Commandsand Subordinate MARFOR.

GeographicCombatant Command

Relation-ship

SubordinateMARFOR

Commander in Chief, United StatesPacific Command

Assigned* Commander, Marine Corps Forces, Pacific (COMMARFORPAC)

Commander in Chief,United StatesJoint Forces Command

Assigned Commander, Marine Corps Forces,Atlantic (COMMARFORLANT)

Commander in Chief, United StatesCentral Command

Designated Commander, Marine Corps Forces, Central Command

United States Commander in Chief, Europe

Assigned Commander, Marine Corps Forces, Europe (COMMARFOREUR)

Commander in Chief, United States Southern Command

Designated Commander, Marine Corps Forces, Southern Command

* Only the Secretary of Defense can assign or attach a force to a combatantcommand, and a force can only be assigned to one combatant command.

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Figure 2-1. MARFOR Pacific, Central Command, and Korea.

Operational-Level Logistics ____________________________________________________________________________________ 2-3

DOD Executive Agent Directives and Instructions

The President, DOD, or Congress designates aDOD executive agent as the sole agency to per-form a function or service for others. DOD exec-utive agent responsibilities are normally focusedon national strategic-level activities, but theseresponsibilities may also include operational-level logistic support in a theater of operations.Executive agent authority can be delegated byany superior to a subordinate to act on behalf ofthe superior. A wide range of responsibilities and

authority may be given to the executive agent.The exact nature and scope of the authority dele-gated must be stated in the document designatingthe executive agent.

Inter-Service Support Agreementand Interdepartmental/Agency Support Agreements

Inter-Service support agreements are formal sup-port agreements between two Services, or an ele-ment thereof, for one Service to provide logistic

Figure 2-2. MARFOR Atlantic, Europe, and South.

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and/or administrative support to another. Suchaction may or may not be recurring on an installa-tion, area or worldwide basis. Interdepartmental/agency support is the provision of logistic and/oradministrative support services or materiel pro-vided, with or without reimbursement, by one ormore Services to one or more departments oragencies of the United States Government (otherthan military).

Acquisition Cross-Service Agreement

Negotiated on a bilateral basis with U.S. allies orcoalition partners, acquisition cross-Service agree-ments (ACSAs) allow U.S. Forces to exchangecommon types of support (e.g., food, fuel, trans-portation, ammunition, equipment). ACSAs arebilateral agreements between the United Statesand one other nation or country. The supportreceived or given is reimbursed under the ACSAthrough payment, replacement in kind or equalvalue exchange.

Support Relationships

CUL is materiel, items or service support sharedwith or provided by two or more Services, DODagencies or multinational partners to another Ser-vice, DOD agency, non-DOD agency, and/ormultinational partner in an operational environ-ment. CUL performed by one Service in supportof another Service may be in the form of—

l Common servicing that does not require reim-bursement from the Service receiving thesupport.

l Cross-servicing that requires reimbursement fromthe Service receiving the support.

Marine Corps Support Organizations

The structural organization of the Marine Corpsconsists of HQMC, operating forces, the MarineCorps Reserve, and the SE. Each category hasinherent logistic capabilities and specific logisticresponsibilities at the strategic, operational, and tac-

tical levels of war. The primary mission of HQMCand the SE is to provide manpower and logisticsupport to the operating forces. Responsibilities andcapabilities overlap because no organization orlevel of support can function effectively withoutextensive, continuous coordination between sup-ported and supporting organizations.

Headquarters, Marine Corps

Staffs, departments, and divisions of HQMC areresponsible to the Commandant of the MarineCorps (CMC) for administrative management,policy, and provision of service support for theoperating forces, the Marine Corps Reserve, andthe SE. CMC delegates authority for designatedmatters of Marine Corps logistic policy and man-agement to the Deputy Commandant for Installa-tions and Logistics (I&L). This authority includesliaison and coordination for logistic action withHQMC staff principals, Marine Corps command-ers, sister-Services, the joint staff, and DODagencies. Responsible for designated aviation-specific logistic policy and management, theDeputy Commandant for Aviation coordinateslogistic action with other agencies.

Supporting Establishment

The Marine Corps SE is responsible for manningand equipping the operating forces and is thesource of Marine Corps strategic logistics. TheMarine Corps SE consists of bases, stations, train-ing activities, formal schools, the Marine CorpsRecruiting Command, the Marine Corps CombatDevelopment Command, and the Marine CorpsMateriel Command (MARCORMATCOM).

Marine Corps Materiel Command

MARCORMATCOM has responsibility for mate-riel life cycle management of Marine Corpsground weapons systems, equipment, munitions,and information systems. This SE exercises mate-riel support management through its two subordi-nate commands, Marine Corps logistics bases(MCLBs) and Marine Corps Systems Command


(MARCORSYSCOM). The Marine Corps exe-cutes its supply functions via wholesale and retailmaterial management entities. At the wholesalelevel, MCLBs perform traditional DOD inventorycontrol point functions for assigned items, as wellas serving as the single Service-level manager forMarine Corps ground weapons systems. At theretail level, MEFs operate intermediate stockpoints and process requisitions generated by theconsumer-level maintenance and supply systems.The supply battalions of the force service supportgroups (FSSGs) operate these stock points andprovide the primary source of supply for MEFs.The Navy provides support for Navy-furnishedmaterial, ammunition, and equipment through cog-nizant systems commands.

Marine Corps Logistics Bases

The MCLB, Albany, GA, MCLB Barstow, CA,and Blount Island Command (BIC), Jacksonville,FL, provide general Service-level supply, storage,and maintenance support to the Marine Corps.Repair centers perform depot-level overflow field/intermediate-level maintenance on ground equip-ment. Storage facilities house consumable andrepairable materiel, including some pre-positionedwar reserve materiel. MCLB Albany is the itemmanager for Marine Corps-peculiar materiel. BICis responsible for inventory management andequipment maintenance, modification, and replace-ment support for the MPF and the NorwayGeoprepositioning Program. MCLBs/BIC maydeploy a technical assistance advisory team(TAAT), which includes civilian contractors, to atheater of war to provide technical assistance forMPF regeneration operations.

Marine Corps Systems Command

As one of its functions, the MARCORSYSCOMmanages Marine Corps ground ammunitionacquisition programs and Marine Corps ownedand controlled ground ammunition stocks. Theground ammunition function is particularly sig-nificant in insuring MAGTF sustainability dur-

ing operations and crisis action response planningand execution.

Marine Corps Bases and Stations

Marine Corps bases, stations, and reserve supportcenters furnish the garrison administration, housing,storage, maintenance, training, and deployment sup-port facilities. The operating forces and the MarineCorps Reserve use bases, stations, and centers tomaintain their combat readiness and support theirdeployment on routine and contingency responseoperations. Bases, stations, and centers provide criti-cal logistics to deploying forces during predeploy-ment preparations. Many of the bases and stations ofthe SE report to either COMMARFORLANT orCOMMARFORPAC. Some bases and stations aredesignated stations of initial assignment for MarineCorps Reserve mobilization and are responsible forassisting the operating forces with the throughput ofMarine Corps Reserve personnel and materiel insupport of MAGTF deployments.

Marine Corps Forces Logistic Sources

The MARFOR constitutes the forward presence,crisis response, and fighting power available toJFCs. The MAGTF, MLC, and the force projectionlogistic sources provide logistics for MARFOR.

Marine Air-Ground Task Force

The MAGTF is the principal Marine Corps organi-zation for missions across the range of militaryoperations. Task-organized under a single com-mander capable of responding rapidly anywhere inthe world, MAGTF forces are functionallygrouped into four elements: a command element(CE), an aviation combat element (ACE), a groundcombat element (GCE), and a CSSE. The elementsare categories of forces, not formal commands.

The basic MAGTF structure does not vary,though the number, size, and type units compris-ing each element will be mission dependent. The

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flexibility of the organizational structure allowsfor one or more subordinate MAGTFs, other Ser-vice, and/or foreign military forces to be assignedor attached. The MAGTF is specifically designedto meet mission-oriented requirements ofamphibious warfare and expeditionary opera-tions. A MAGTF deploys with a package ofaccompanying supplies that sustain initial opera-tions. Though not part of the tactical command ofthe MAGTF, the SE provides the essential plat-form from which the MAGTF forms, trains,deploys, and receives sustainment.

Marine Expeditionary Force

The MEF is the largest MAGTF and the princi-pal Marine Corps warfighting organization, par-ticularly for larger crises or contingencies. It istask-organized around a permanent CE and nor-mally contains one or more Marine divisions,Marine aircraft wings (MAWs), and MarineFSSGs. The MEF is capable of missions acrossthe range of military operations, includingamphibious assault and sustained operationsashore in any environment. It can operate from asea base, a land base, or both. It may also containother Service or foreign military forces assignedor attached to the MAGTF. The FSSG providestactical-level ground CSS to MEF elements. TheMarine wing support group (MWSG) providesaviation ground support, including airfield opera-tions support and selected airfield-critical CSSfunctions to the MAW and to Marine aircraftgroups (MAGs) through the Marine wing sup-port squadron (MWSS). Marine aviation logis-t i c s squadrons (MALSs) p rov ide d i r ec tintermediate-level aviation supply, maintenance,avionics, and ordnance support to a MAG.

The MEF deploys with up to 60 days of accom-panying supplies. Under certain conditions, aMEF operating in a joint force may receive oper-ational-level logistics from an FSSG designatedas an MLC. Smaller MAGTFs are task-organizedfrom the assets of the MEF.

Marine Expeditionary Brigade

A Marine expeditionary brigade (MEB) is aMAGTF that is constructed around a reinforcedinfantry regiment, a composite MAG, and a bri-gade service support group (BSSG). Com-manded by a general officer, the MEB is task-organized to meet the requirements of a specificsituation. It can function as part of a joint taskforce (JTF), as the lead echelon of the MEF, oralone. Varying in size and composition, the MEBis larger than a Marine expeditionary unit (MEU)but smaller than a MEF. The MEB is capable ofconducting missions across the full range of mili-tary operations. It may contain other Service orforeign military forces assigned or attached. Asan expeditionary force, the MEB is capable ofrapid deployment and employment with mari-time or geographic pre-positioning equipmentand supplies via amphibious shipping and/or stra-tegic airlift. A MEB normally deploys with up to30 days of accompanying supplies.

Marine Expeditionary Unit

A MEU is a MAGTF that is constructed aroundan infantry battalion reinforced, a helicoptersquadron reinforced, and a MEU service supportgroup (MSSG). It normally fulfills Marine Corpsforward sea-based deployment requirements. TheMEU provides an immediate reaction capabilityfor crisis response and is capable of limited com-bat operations. It may contain other Service orforeign military forces assigned or attached. TheMSSG is sourced from an FSSG. The standardaccompanying sustainment for a MEU is up to 15days of accompanying supplies.

Special Purpose MAGTF

A special purpose Marine air-ground task force(SPMAGTF) is a MAGTF organized, trained,and equipped with narrowly focused capabilities.It is designed to accomplish a specific mission,o f t e n o f l i m i t e d s c o p e a n d d u r a t i o n . ASPMAGTF may be any size, but normally it is a


relatively small force—the size of a MEU orsmaller. It may contain other Service or foreignmilitary forces assigned or attached to theMAGTF. Normally, a combat service supportdetachment (CSSD) is task-organized from theFSSG to support the SPMAGTF. When attachedto a joint force, the SPMAGTF will usuallyrequire operational logistic support.

Air Contingency MAGTF

The air contingency MAGTF (ACM) is an on-call,combat-ready MAGTF that deploys by airlift.ACMs vary in size based on mission require-ments and the availability of airlift. Because theydeploy by air, ACMs generally have a limitedorganic logistics capability, require an arrival air-field, and need operational logistic support. ACMsusually are activated to respond to developing cri-ses and may deploy independently or in conjunc-tion with other expeditionary forces.

Marine Logistics Command

The MLC is an employment option available tothe Marine Corps component commander forexecuting operational logistics and is the primaryoption to provide operational-level support dur-ing a major theater war (MTW). The MLC is theMarine Corps logistic organization that fills thegap between the tactical and strategic levels of

logistics. The MLC is task-organized around aBSSG/combat service support group (CSSG) orlarger CSSE to provide operational logistic sup-port to theater MARFOR, including MAGTFsoperating with the Navy component. The MLCnormally falls under the U.S. chain of commandand provides U.S. logistic support; however, asdirected by the CINC, the MLC may provideCUL to multinational and joint forces.

The MLC is the MARFOR’s operational-levellogistic agency to coordinate host nation, joint, andcoalition support and to execute the MARFORcommander’s logistic policy. When a CSSE isdesignated as the MLC, the MARFOR establishesthe support relationship between the MLC and theMAGTF. The establishment of an MLC creates anoperational/tactical logistic structure within theMarine Corps component where one CSSE servingas an MLC i s normal ly respons ib le fo roperational-level logistics, and the MAGTF CSSEis responsible for the CSS of the MAGTF.

The MLC is attached to the component command(see figure 2-3) and has coordinating authoritywith supported MAGTFs. The MLC and FSSGcommanders exercise C2 of their assignedorganizations by structuring their forces,establishing command relationships, and assigningmissions to meet changing requirements.

Figure 2-3. MLC in a Marine Corps Component Organization.

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Force Projection Logistic Sources

To respond rapidly to crises in different parts ofthe world, the Marine Corps and the Navy devel-oped the MPF and aviation logistics support ship(T-AVB) programs. In concert with NATO andthe Norwegians, the Marine Corps maintains theNorway Geoprepositioning Program as anotherlogistic source.

Maritime Pre-positioning Force

The MPF is a highly responsive, strategic powerprojection capability that currently consists of 15ships organized into 3 maritime pre-positioningships squadrons (MPSRONs). These squadronsare strategically positioned around the world andare loaded with the equipment and supplies tosustain a notional 17,600-member force for up to30 days. A MEB will enter a theater of operationsvia air or sealift and join the equipment and sup-plies unloaded at a nearby port during arrival andassembly operations.

An MPF consis ts of a MEB, ships of theMPSRON, and Navy suppor t fo rces . AnMPSRON can also support smaller MAGTFsthrough selective offloading of equipment and sup-plies or a MEF by employing some or all of the 15ships. Ships from one MPSRON are interchange-able with ships from any other. MPF is especiallyresponsive to regional crises or natural disasterrelief. Each squadron flagship and alternate flag-ship is configured to support a MEU-size contin-gency, which allows for the download of a MEUsuite of equipment and sustainment by one ship.

MPF and amphibious operations are complemen-tary capabilities; one is not a substitute for theother. MPF is not to be confused with JLOTS, stra-tegic sealift, or a floating warehouse. Such inappro-priate use of equipment and supplies degrades MPFcapability and could jeopardize the combatant com-mander’s ability to employ MAGTFs.

Aviation Logistics Support Ship

There are two T-AVBs, one located on the WestCoast and the other on the East Coast. They pro-vide dedicated sealift for movement of MALSsupplies and equipment, and they provide anintermediate maintenance activity aboard ship.This immediate maintenance activity is task-organized to repair aircraft parts and equipmentfor MAGTF aircraft.

Norway Geoprepositioning Program

Established in 1981 under a bilateral memoran-dum of understanding with the Norwegian Gov-ernment, this program permits the pre-positioningand maintenance of MEB equipment and suppliesin underground storage facilities in Norway. Theequipment and supplies are categorized as contin-gency retention stock. Since 1995, the two coun-tries have equally shared the cost of the program.The Norway Geoprepositioning Program pro-vides the Norway air-landed Marine expedition-ary brigade (NALMEB) a capability similar inscope to that of an MPSRON.

The NALMEB, totaling approximately 13,000personnel, is smaller than a maritime pre-posi-t ioning ship (MPS) MEB. Simi lar ly , theNALMEB does not pre-position armor assets dueto Norway’s non-provocation policy and the Con-ventional Forces in Europe Treaty. HQMCapproved the use of equipment and supplies forexercises or operations outside of Norway butwithin the European Command area of responsi-bility (AOR). The NALMEB Out of Area Policyallows for this by requesting the use of theseassets from HQMC via the appropriate chain ofcommand/national command relationships.HQMC has designated COMMARFOREUR asits executive agent for these matters once HQMCapproval has been granted. Requests for excep-tion to this policy must be forwarded to HQMCfor approval.


Joint Force Logistic Organizations

Combatant commanders and subordinate JFCsrely on a variety of organizations to coordinatelogistic activities within the joint force. The J-4 isthe primary coordinating staff agency in the jointforce and usually forms a logistics readiness cen-ter (LRC) to monitor events in theater. Addition-ally, the JFC has the option of establishingnumerous logistic offices, boards, and centers tocoordinate theater logistics.

Logistics DivisionThe logistics division is charged with the formula-tion of logistic plans and with the coordination andsupervision of supply, maintenance, repair, evacu-ation, transportation, engineering, salvage, pro-curement, health services, mortuary affairs,communications system support, security assis-tance, host-nation support (HNS), and relatedlogistic activities. Because many of the problemsconfronting this division are of a single-Servicenature, the established policies of the Serviceshould be considered. This division is responsiblefor advising the commander of the logistic supportthat can be provided for proposed courses of action(COAs). In general, the J-4 formulates policies toensure effective logistic support for forces in thecommand and coordinates execution of the com-mander’s policies and guidance. The joint forceslogistic staff performs the following functions:l Monitors current and evolving theater logistic

capabilities.l Coordinates logistics with upcoming opera-

tions.l Advises the JFC on the supportability of pro-

posed operations and COAs.l Acts as agent and advocate to non-theater logis-

tic organizations.

Logistics Readiness CenterThe J-4 may establish an LRC to monitor eventswithin theater. The LRC receives reports from Ser-vice components and external sources, distills

information for presentation to the JFC, andresponds to questions. The LRC consists of repre-sentatives from various functional areas (e.g.,fuels, ammunition, engineering, supply, surfacetransportation, sealift, airlift, medical services).The LRC performs the following tasks:

l Plans for and monitors current and evolvingtheater logistic capabilities.

l Directs and coordinates logistic support withupcoming operations.

l Advises the JFC on the supportability of pro-posed operations or COA.

l Monitors logistic automation systems for assetstatus.

l Acts as the JFC’s agent and advocate to non-theater logistic organizations.

Logistic Offices, Boards, and CentersCombatant commanders or subordinate JFC mayestablish joint logistic offices, boards, and cen-ters, to coordinate logistics.

Joint Petroleum Office

The Joint Petroleum Office (JPO) supervises thecombatant commander’s fuels responsibilitywithin a theater. In conjunction with the Servicecomponents and the defense energy support center(DESC), the JPO plans, coordinates, and overseesbulk petroleum support for U.S. Forces employedor planned for employment in the theater. A fieldactivity of DLA, DESC is the integrated materielmanager for bulk petroleum. When tactical opera-tions warrant extensive management of wholesalebulk petroleum, the JPO may establish a sub-areapetroleum office (SAPO).

Sub-area Petroleum Office

The primary function of the SAPO is to super-vise the staff petroleum logistic responsibilities ofa joint force. The Service component com-mander augments the SAPO with personnel toperform the following tasks within the AOR:l Reviews and consolidates resupply requirements

for JPO and DESC.

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l Releases or reallocates pre-positioned warreserve materiel stocks.

l Assists the DESC.l Identifies and submits requirements to host

nation(s) for petroleum logistic support.

Joint Civil-Military Engineering Board

The joint civil-military engineering board(JCMEB) establishes in-theater policies, proce-dures, priorities, and direction for civil-militaryconstruction and engineering requirements. TheJCMEB is a temporary board staffed by personnelfrom the components, agencies or activities. TheJCMEB arbitrates issues referred by the JointFacilities Utilization Board (JFUB) and, if appro-priate, prepares the civil engineering support plan.

Joint Facilities Utilization Board

The JFUB evaluates and reconciles componentrequests for real estate, use of existing facilities,inter-Service support, and construction to com-ply with JCMEB priorities. The J-4 chairs theJFUB, whose membership includes representa-tives from the components and special activities(e.g., legal and civil affairs).

CINC Logistic Procurement Support Board

The CINC logistic procurement support board(CLPSB) coordinates the JFC’s theater acquisi-tion program. A J-4 representative chairs theCLPSB, which is staffed by representatives fromeach component. The CLPSB performs the fol-lowing functions:

l Coordinates the acquisition of supplies and ser-vices performed under U.S. contracts with U.S.Embassies and host nation(s).

l Assigns single-Service contracting for speci-fied supplies and services, when appropriate.

l Exchanges information between contracting activ-ities addressing sources of supply, prices, contrac-tor performance, etc.

l Provides guidance on the consolidation of pur-chases.

l Establishes procedures to coordinate procure-ment with the supply operations.

l Prescribes payment procedures consistent withcurrency-control requirements and interna-tional agreements.

l Promulgates classification and compensationguides governing wages, living allowances, andother benefits for third world country nationaland indigenous employees.

Theater Patient Movement Requirements Center

The JFS controls the theater patient movementrequirements center (TPMRC), which coordi-nates and controls the inter/intratheater move-ment of patients. The TPMRC generates theaterplans and schedules that deliver patients to medi-cal treatment facilities (MTFs).

Joint Blood Program Office

The Joint Blood Program Office (JBPO) plans,coordinates, and directs the handling, storage,and distribution of blood and blood componentswithin the AOR. The JBPO consolidates and for-wards requirements for resupply to the ArmedServices Blood Program Office (ASBPO). TheJBPO functions within the office of the JFS andis staffed with Service representatives knowl-edgeable in blood bank techniques.

Joint Mortuary Affairs Office

The joint mortuary affairs office (JMAO) plansand executes mortuary affairs programs. TheJMAO provides guidance to facilitate the conductof mortuary programs and to maintain data (asrequired) pertaining to recovery, identification, anddisposition of U.S. dead and missing in theassigned theater. The JMAO serves as the centralclearing point for mortuary affairs and casualtyinformation, and monitors the deceased and miss-ing personal effects program. The Army compo-nent commander is routinely designated executiveagent for theater mortuary affairs, which includesthe establishment and operation of the JMAOunder the staff supervision of a JFC J-4.

Operational-Level Logistics ___________________________________________________________________________________ 2-11

Joint Medical Surveillance Team

The joint medical surveillance team is responsi-ble for the following:l Coordinates, monitors, and evaluates the health

surveillance activities of force health protectionin support of joint operations.

l Provides the clinical and administrative expertiseto ensure compliance with health surveillancepolicies and programs and maintains the highestlevel of accountability.

l Ensures proper documentation of health sur-veillance initiatives, to include pre- and post-deployment questionnaires, serum samples,immunizations, disease and non-battle injuryreports, and environmental samples.

l Assists in the risk communication and healtheducation and training program.

l Collects and analyzes medical threat and healthsurveillance data.

l Recommends intervention strategies for minimiz-ing casualties and optimizing health readiness.

l Documents lessons learned for improving thehealth surveillance program in subsequent oper-ations.

Joint Materiel Priorities and Allocation Board

The Joint Materiel Priorities and AllocationBoard recommends priorities for allocations ofmateriel to fulfill in-theater logistic requirementsfor both U.S. and allied forces.

Joint Transportation Board

The combatant command establishes a JTB toestablish priorities and allocations of common-user transportation resources within the CINC’sgeographic region.

Joint Movement Center

The JMC is responsible for coordinating theemployment of all modes of theater transporta-tion (i.e., allies, coalition partners or the hostnation) to support the theater concept of opera-tions. The JMC establishes strategic and theatertransportation policies consistent with relativeurgency of need, port and terminal capabilities,transportation asset availability, and the JFC’spriorities. The functions and responsibilities ofthe JMC are theater-dependent.

Service and Civilian Components

Joint policy encourages the Service componentsto coordinate, consult, and agree on common pro-cedures for efficient utilization of logisticresources. In addition, the combatant commandermay exercise directive authority for logistics(DAL) and direct a single Service to providecommon-user support to the joint force. Opera-tional-level logistic planners must be familiarwith other Service capabilities to maximize theuse of available theater resources and create theconditions for MAGTF success.

Navy

The Navy component command (NCC) is respon-sible for the preparing and equipping of Navyforces needed for the effective prosecution of warand other military operations.

Capabilities

Table 2-2 on page 2-12 lists Navy logistic unitsand functions performed by the NCC.

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Table 2-2. NCC Operational-Level Logistic Capabilities.

Elements

The logistics task force (LTF) and combat logis-tics force (CLF) are elements of the Navy theaterdistribution organization.

Logistics Task Force. An LTF is responsible forrecommending, planning, and sourcing expedi-tionary logistic support to each of the combatantcommander’s Navy component commanders.

Combat Logistics Force. The CLF providesunderway replenishment to battle groups, amphibi-ous-ready groups, embarked units, and individualships at sea. Highly mobile, the CLF carries abroad range of stores (e.g., fuel, food, repair parts,ammunition, other essential materiel) to keep thenaval forces operating at sea for extended periods.The CLF consists of station ships, shuttle ships,and a variety of other support ships. It includesboth active Navy ships and those operated by theMSC within the naval fleet auxiliary force. Shore-based naval logistics introduces additional plan-

ning requirements. Sites must be identified toestablish the following capabilities:l Naval advanced logistic support site (ALSS)

and naval forward logistic site (FLS). Theshore-based system theater distribution of theNavy is based on an ALSS located near majortransportation terminals and FLSs forward-positioned to support Navy forces. The ALSS/FLS receive, consolidate, stow, and transfersupplies and equipment to shore-based aviationunits, fleet hospitals, NMCBs, and other Navyunits operating on land as well as to Navy oper-ating forces afloat.

l Advanced base functional components (ABFCs)are task-organized equipment and/or personnelmodules that conduct or augment the shore-based logistic operations of the ALSS and FLSs.Each ABFC performs specific logistic functionsthat may be combined to establish or extend theshore-based infrastructure. ABFCs may besourced from any combination of reserve oractive forces and contracted support.

Type Unit Functions

Naval cargo handling battalions Organizing, training, and equipping to load and off-load Navy and Marine Corps cargo in MPF and merchant breakbulk or container ships; operating a temporary ocean cargo terminal; loading and offloading cargo carrier in military-controlled aircraft; and operating an expeditionary air cargo terminal.

Freight terminal companies Forwarding cargo at seaports.

Fixed-wing and rotary-wing squadrons Distributing cargo and passengers in-theater.

Naval supply support battalions Supply support warehousing (e.g., inventory management, asset visibility).

Naval facilities engineering command, Atlantic and Pacific divisions

Contingency engineering, constructing facilities, and providing services contracting as well as engineering and environmental technical support.

Naval construction force (NCF) units, including NMCBs, amphibious construction battalions, and underwater construction teams. (These NCF engineeringforces are referred to as SEABEEs.)

Constructing and maintaining facilities and lines of communications (LOCs), construct-ing port facilities and erecting causeway and elevated causeway systems in support of JLOTS.

Fleet hospitals, hospital ships, and casualty receiving and treatment ships (CRTSs) mobile medical augmentation readiness team and fleet surgical teams

Providing HSS.

Service support elements, naval regional contracting centers

Providing mobile mail centers, contracting support for CSS (e.g., messing, berthing, finance, laundry, barber, retail outlet, transportation).

Fuel companies Storing and distributing bulk fuel, providing tank trucks, operating fuel service stations operations, limiting pollution, and providing environmental clean up.


Army

The Army Service Component Command(ASCC) is an Army component to the geographi-cal combatant commanders and the major sub-unified command. The ASCCs are responsiblefor the preparation of Army forces (ARFOR)necessary for the effective prosecution of war andother military operations. The ASCC routinelyplans for and provides the following theaterlogistic functions:

l Management of overland petroleum supportincluding inland waterways to U.S. land-basedforces of DOD components.

l Common item and common service support toother components as required by the combatantcommander.

l Theater land LOC.l Common-user land transportation in theater to

include rail.l Equipment load-rigging support in conjunction

with other Service component commands.l In-theater water terminal operations in coordi-

nation with the Military Traffic ManagementCommand (MTMC) port manager.

l Pipeline fuel support.l Establishment and operation of inland water-

ways and coastal barge traffic in conjunctionwith MTMC.

l Engineer support for the inland distributionnetwork (i.e., highways and bridges).

l Rotary-wing, common-user support, especiallyin the area of medical evacuation.

l Logistic support to allied/coalition commandsand/or interagency support for specific support,as directed by the combatant commander.

Lead Service Common-User Logistics

Each Service component to a JFC is responsiblefor the personnel and logistic support of its ownsubordinate forces, except when this support isotherwise provided for by agreements with otherServices, DOD agencies, multinational partners,or by assignments of common support require-

ments by the JFC. CUL requirements within uni-fied operations can be short or long term. Theserequirements are the ASCC commander’s respon-sibility, although they may be executed by tacti-cal-level ARFOR support headquarters. CULrequirements can come from numerous sources.These sources include formal DOD-level execu-tive agent responsibilities, inter-Service supportagreements, support agreements between U.S.Forces and allies and lead-Service designation asdetermined by the combatant commander. CULis discussed further in JP 4-07, Joint Tactics,Techniques, and Procedures for Common-UserLogistic Support During Joint Operation.

Elements

The Army has numerous operational logisticorganizations (echelons above corps [EAC]) andone tactical organization that may providetheater-level logistic support.

Theater Support Command

The theater support command (TSC) is a multi-functional support headquarters that works at theoperational level with links to strategic- and tacti-cal-level support organizations and agencies. TheASCC commander supervises the TSC’s peace-time contingency planning. When deploying toan AO, the TSC reports to the commander, Armyforces (COMARFOR). The COMARFOR maybe the ASCC commander or a lower level com-mander, depending on the scale of operations.The TSC has some permanently assigned majorsubordinate units. The centerpiece of the TSC isthe distribution management center (DMC),which combines the functions of materiel man-agement and movement. The logistics supportelement (LSE) and area support groups (ASGs)are subordinate elements of the TSC. The ASCCcommander attaches other units to the TSC forspecific operations. The TSC can be easily tai-lored to best meet the support requirements thatcan vary considerably depending on the type ofoperations and the scale of the deployment.

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In many operational scenarios, the TSC com-mander would execute most of COMARFOR’slead Service CUL responsibilities in the AO. TSCplanners must be aware of the support responsi-bilities falling to other Army EAC-level com-mands and synchronize it with any applicableportion of the distribution plan.

The Army normally executes movement controlfor EAC at the operational level through a TSCmovement control agency (MCA). In someinstances, this organization reports to the pri-mary logistics staff officer in the ASCC staff.The TSC MCA helps develop and executes theArmy posture of the joint movement programdeveloped by the JMC.

The TSC MCA serves as the primary element forthe planning and controlling of transportationoperations at the operational level. The TSCMCA synchronizes its operations with those ofthe JMC, USTRANSCOM, the TSC DMC, andlower echelon MCCs. It also follows the priori-ties established by the ASCC.

At the operational level, the TSC’s maintenancecapability is organized to provide DS and GSmaintenance to units in and passing through theAO, to provide DS maintenance support to backup tactical-level organizations, support to avia-tion units, and sustainment maintenance supportfor the theater. The support operations supply andmaintenance directorate provides planning andpolicy for maintenance provided by Army main-tenance units, maintenance elements under theLSE, and contracted support.

The TSC manages Class I, II, III (packaged andbulk), IV, V, VI, VII, and IX supplies and water.Class IV supply actions are coordinated with theengineer command and/or COMARFOR engineerstaff. The TSC director of field services exer-cises staff supervision over field services func-tions. ARFOR, via the TSC, may be responsibleto provide significant field service CUL supportwithin the AO/joint operations area (JOA).

The Army developed a modular concept foropening theaters in which the TSC is a criticalcomponent. Modularity involves incrementallydeploying only the minimum capabil i t iesrequired to an AO, and the basis for this modularsupport is called the theater force opening pack-age. The TSC early entry module provides C2 ofmany of the elements initially supporting RSOI.

Logistics Support Element

The LSE is a forward deployed theater-specificorganization that performs the United StatesArmy Materiel Command (USAMC) tasks ofdepot maintenance, oil analysis, calibration oftest equipment, ammunition surveillance, releaseof pre-positioned strategic stocks, materiel field-ing, technology insertion, and battle damageassessment. USAMC staffs the LSE headquar-ters while a combination of DOD civilians, con-tractors, military, and host-nation personnelaugment the operational units of the organiza-tion. The LSE is operational control (OPCON) tothe TSC.

Area Support Group

ASGs, subordinate units assigned to the TSC, areresponsible for area support in the AO and maybe tasked to provide sustainment support toMarine Corps or other forces. The basic missionof the ASG is to provide DS logistics support todesignated units and elements within its AOR.This support typically includes DS supply (lessammunition, classified map supply, and medicalsupply and support), DS maintenance, field ser-vices, as well as other support directed byCOMARFOR through the TSC. ASGs can alsoprovide GS supply and sustainment maintenancesupport to TSC and combat-zone DS supplyorganizations and sustainment maintenance insupport of the theater mission. If an operational-level ammunition group is not established, spe-cialized battalions assigned to the ASG provideammunition support. ASGs can support interme-diate staging base and RSOI operations.


ASGs are composed of specialized and multi-functional units. The mission, functions, andorganization of ASGs vary according to the typeand extent of support required.

ASGs provide a wide variety of support to unitsstationed in or passing through their areas. AnASG area of support depends on the density ofmilitary units and materiel to be supported and onpolitical boundaries and identifiable terrain fea-tures. Normally, one ASG is assigned to a TSCfor every 15,000 to 30,000 troops supported inthe AO. ASGs are generally located along landLOC to take advantage of the transportation net-work and to provide responsive support to theunits they support.

Corps Support Command

The size and composition of the corps supportcommand (COSCOM) depend on the type ofArmy corps (e.g. airborne, armored), number ofsoldiers to be supported, type of organizationssupported, number and types of weapon systemsto repair, and tonnage of supplies to be issued andtransported. The COSCOM consists of a specialtroop battalion and headquarters company, func-tional control centers, a variable number of corpssupport groups (CSGs), a medical brigade, and atransportation group. COSCOMs are designed toprovide tactical-level DS and GS support to corpsunits, but with proper staff and unit augmenta-tion, COSCOMs can perform significant opera-tional-level support functions.

Air Force

The commander, Air Force forces (COMAFFOR),consists of assigned combat and service aviationforces. The COMAFFOR is responsible for thepreparation of the air forces to prosecute wareffectively and other military missions. At theoperational level of logistics, the COMAFFORprovides intratheater airlift, aerial port operations,and airdrop services to the joint force. It controls

theater operations through the air operationscenter (AOC).

Director of Mobility Forces

The director of mobility forces (DIRMOBFOR) isnormally a senior officer familiar with the JOAand possesses an extensive background in airliftoperations. When established, DIRMOBFORserves as the designated agent of the Air Forcecomponent commander or joint force air compo-nent commander for airlift issues. In addition, theDIRMOBFOR exercises coordinating authoritybetween the airlift coordination cell, the air mobil-ity element, the tanker airlift control center, theJMC, and the AOC to expedite the resolution ofairlift problems.

Air Operations Center

The AOC is the principal air operations installationfrom which aircraft and air warning functions ofcombat air operations are directed, controlled, andexecuted. The AOC is the senior agency of theCOMAFFOR from which C2 of air operations arecoordinated with other components and Services.

Airlift Coordination Cell

An airlift coordination cell within the AOC plans,coordinates, manages, and executes theater airliftoperations in the AOR or JOA. Normally, the aircoordination cell consists of an airlift plansbranch, an airlift operations branch, and an airliftsupport branch.

Aeromedical Evacuation Coordination Center

The aeromedical evacuation coordination center(AECC) is a coordination center, within the jointAOC’s airlift coordination cell, that monitors aer-omedical evacuation (AE) operations. The AECCmanages the medical aspects of the AE missionand serves as the net control station for AE com-munications. It coordinates medical requirementswith airlift capability, assigns medical missions

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to the appropriate AE elements, and monitorspatient movement activities.

Air Force Contingency Supply Squadron

The Air Force contingency supply squadron(AFCSS) provides global supply, fuels, account-ing, and supply computer support to the geo-graphical combatant commanders or major airforce command during wartime, contingency,natural disaster, or humanitarian relief operations.The level of support provided by the AFCSSdepends on the s i tuat ion and the supportrequested by the major command or the sup-ported combatant commander. The AFCSS pro-vides limited support for deployments less than30 days. For operation greater than 30 days, theAFCSS provides full supply support to includefunds management, stock control, and monitor-ing of requisitions, fuels accounting, and baseoperating support.

Civilian

The civilian augmentation program is a DOD pro-gram designed to use civilian contractors to per-form selected services during military operations.Civilian contractors are used to displace deployedforces, allowing them to be redeployed for othercontingencies and to limit the size of a militaryforce in-theater.

Interagency Theater Organizations

Interagency organizations are DOD, other U.S.Government departments or agencies, NGOs,regional organizations, and international organi-zations. The MARFOR may join a number ofinteragency organizations in theater, especiallyduring MOOTW.

Nongovernmental Organizations

NGOs are transnational organizations of privatecitizens that maintain a consultative status withthe Economic and Social Council of the United

Nations. NGOs may be professional associa-tions, foundations, multinational businesses, orsimply groups with a common interest in humani-tarian assistance (development and relief). NGOis a term normally used by non-U.S. organiza-tions. Examples are Doctors without Borders andSave the Children Fund.

The United Nations

The United Nations, Department of Peacekeep-ing Operations, Field and Logistics Division,Logistics and Communications Services is thelogistic organization responsible for most UnitedNations operations. This organization plans logis-tic support, determines support requirements, par-ticipates in technical survey teams, manages andarranges deployments, and determines the needfor construction projects.

Multinational Theater Organization

Multinational operations are conducted by coali-tions or alliances between two or more nations andare initiated to achieve common interests. A coali-tion is an ad hoc arrangement between two ormore nations for common action. An alliance isthe result of formal agreements between two ormore nations for broad, long-term objectives thatfurther the common interests of the members. Mul-tinational operations participants are generallyreluctant to grant the multinational force com-manders (MNFCs) full control over their forces.

Logistic Principles

Multinational logistics (MNL) is defined as anycoordinating logistic activity involving two ormore countries or organizations in support ofMNFs. The following principles guide forces par-ticipating in MNL:

l Logistic support is a collective responsibility ofthe MNF and the participating nations.

l Individual nations are responsible for the logis-tic support of their forces.


l MNFC must have sufficient authority over logis-tic resources.

l Cooperation and coordination are necessary.l Mutual support agreements reduce the logistic

footprint in a theater.l Synergy results from the use of multinational

integrated logistic support.l MNFC must have visibility of the logistic activi-

ties during an operation.

Logistic Structure

The MNF logistic structure is complex, but gen-erally parallels the U.S. joint/Service structure.The purpose and operations of the multinationaljoint logistic center (MJLC) overlap and arebased on the specific requirements of the opera-tion. Table 2-3 shows joint/multinational/Service-level organizations.

Table 2-3. Joint/Multinational/Service-Level Organizations.

MNFC Senior Theater Logistician

The combined/joint logistics representative is themultinational equivalent of the J-4. The seniortheater logistician develops initial logistical guid-ance, plans for the logistical support of the opera-tion, and promulgates logistic policies on behalfof the MNFC. The senior theater logistician hasthe following responsibilities:

l Plans the logistic support necessary to supportthe MNFC’s concept of operations.

l Identifies operational-level logistic force require-ments to support the operation.

l Determines and establishes lead-nation respon-sibilities within the assigned AO.

l Determines host-nation/theater resource require-ments/availability and negotiates necessaryagreements.

l Assesses logistic strength of particular forces;identifies logistic shortfalls; and, in coordinationwith nation representatives, initiates actions nec-essary to remedy the shortfalls.

l Prioritizes logistic requirements in accordancewith MNFC guidance and deconflicts compet-ing requirements.

l Identifies common-funded requirements, devel-ops budgets, and seeks appropriate funding.

l Establishes and publishes logistic reportingrequirements.

l Establishes the MNL C2 organization, deter-mines manning, and harmonizes unit rotationschedules with the needs of the MNF.

l Interfaces at the national level with thosenations providing logistic assets/units for oper-ations.

l Interfaces, as necessary, with the national con-tingents, especially with the host nations.

l Provides/implements logistic planning guid-ance in conjunction with the MNFC logisticplanning staff.

l Coordinates the early development of logisticsupport plans to meet the needs of evolvingoperations.

Multinational Joint Logistic Center

The MJLC coordinates or controls the logisticactivities of designated organizations to supportthe MNF. In addition, it operates functionally ori-ented centralized coordination centers.

Centralized Coordination Centers

These organizations are functional, under the com-mand of the MJLC, and are roughly equivalent tothe joint offices, boards, and centers. The MJLCactivates centralized coordination centers for jointlogistic operations, HNS/theater resources, theater

Level Multinational U.S. Joint/Service

Joint force l MNFC senior theater logistician

l MJLC

l J-4l LRCl Joint logistic boards,

offices, and centers

Component Multinational logisticcenter (MNLC).

l National support element (NSE)

l MLC

Operating forces

Multinational integrated logistic units (MILUs)

l NSEsl FSSG, BSSG,

MWSG, MWSS

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allied contracting, medical coordination center(MEDCC), theater movement coordination center(TMCC), engineering, and others as needed. Thesecenters coordinate logistics with the MNLC.

Multinational Logistic Centers

MNLCs coordinate logistics at the national Ser-vice component level, such as the MARFOR.

Multinational Integrated Logistic Units

MILUs are organized when two or more nationsagree to provide logistic assets to an MNF. The

MILU is OPCON to either the MNFC or anational Service component commander.

National Support Element

NSEs are national organizations or activities thatsupport national forces attached to a MNF. NSEsare OPCON to national authorities and are not nor-mally part of the MNF. Their mission is nation-specific support to units and common support thatis retained by the nation. NSEs coordinate andcooperate with the host-nation commander and thehost nation. The MLC, FSSG, BSSG, MWSG, andMWSS are examples of NSEs.