PLANNED OCEAN LOGISTIC SYSTEM (POLS)

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe Problem of overseas military logistical support, concident with the enhancement of U. S. maritime capability, is examined and a solution is proposed. The Planned Ocean Logistic System (POLS) would utilize a standardized ship design. This design would consist of three sections, or pods, for each ship. A standard aft section would contain the bridge and engine spaces, and two interchangeable forward sections would incorporate military and merchant designs. Cost of such a ship would be split between the Department of Defense and commercial ship owners. This paper presents financial benefits, enhanced sea power and realistic utilization of the military reserve personnel as significant supporting arguments for the proposed plan.If the United States has any idea of being a strong maritime power, we had better get with it. If we have any ideas about supplying needed supplies to our friends over water in the future, we had better get with it. If we intend to strengthen our sea power posture, we had better start by combining and pulling together our Merchant Marine and Navy capabilities and start a long overdue partnership. If each sea service intends to have a premium ship with exactly what they want in it, such advocates had better step aside. If the Department of Defense (DOD) intends to rely on World War II tonnage for logistic support, DOD had better forget about logistic support. If our government intends to provide any logistics by sea, they had better come up with the money and go into partnership with Merchant Marine sailor men. One proposed partnership, designed to provide the overseas logistical capacity and related sea power, is the Planned Ocean Logistics System (POLS).