Modern contested logistics truths drive joint logistics approaches

In response to rapidly evolving threats and operational complexity, the Defense Logistics Agency is redefining logistics strategies for global readiness and resilience.

The Campaign of Learning burst paper, "The Joint Logistics Enterprise's Modern Contested Logistics Truths," authored by DLA Director Army Lt. Gen. Mark Simerly and Leighann Martin with the DLA Director's Strategic Initiatives Group, explores how updating "logistics truths" is critical for meeting the demands of today's complex military environment.

Since its founding in 1961, DLA has shaped military success by ensuring timely, reliable delivery of everything from fuel to field rations. However, the logistics landscape continues to evolve.

"The current landscape is distinctly more complex, characterized by a diminishing and fragile Defense Industrial Base and adversaries who intend to delay, disrupt, degrade, and eliminate our logistical capabilities," Simerly and Martin write. They also note that rapid technological advancements like artificial intelligence and machine learning have significantly altered the operational environment.

The paper presents a new set of "contested logistics truths" designed to outpace these challenges by aligning logistics practices with modern threats and technologies.

1. Logistics wins wars when data leads the fight.
2. "Just-in-Time" is not on time.
3. Logistics networks must be better connected and protected.
4. Precise requirements drive readiness.
5. Resilient distribution networks power operational dominance.
6. Lethality is impossible without logistics.

"Logistics is not a back-office function, it's a battlefield imperative," Simerly and Martin write in reference to the first truth. "Strategic plans must translate into tactical impact, which requires resilient, adaptive execution driven by real-time data."

They also emphasize in the second truth that the outdated "just-in-time" approach has been reimagined as "just enough" logistics, prioritizing operational adaptability over cost efficiency.

To succeed in today's contested environments, the authors write that the joint logistics enterprise must use real-time data and predictive analytics to accurately forecast warfighter needs and prevent shortages or surplus. Distribution networks must be dynamic to maintain the continuous flow of materiel at the point of need.

DLA's priorities for 2026 to set the globe, set the agency and set the supply chains work in concert with these truths. The priorities involve strategically positioning DLA to deliver sustained readiness, accelerating internal transformation and resilient capabilities, and modernizing with new technologies for smarter, faster, and more resilient operations.

The authors conclude that through these truths and priorities, DLA will empower strategic logistics, strengthen partnerships, and foster a forward-leaning mindset.

"These modern contested logistics truths describe our shift toward a more adaptive, data-driven, and resilient logistics capability - one where survival, not just efficiency, defines success" Simerly and Martin write.

Editor's note: This burst paper was prepared by Leighann Martin under Contract No. SP4704-25-F-0056 for the Defense Logistics Agency, October 2025.