UNCLASSIFIED
Skip to main content
Skip to main content
ARGUS
ARGUS PlatformLogistics & sustainment

ARGUS / Logistics & sustainment

Can the force sustain the plan?

Every engagement draws on a finite force. Starting stocks, expenditure, and replenishment determine how long an approach can be sustained—and where the next decision is needed.

Illustrative harbor, railhead, and inland supply route on a terrain model
From port to formation. Illustrative artwork, not an operational supply picture.

The question

Where does projected demand first exceed available supply?

Logistics planners, force-design teams, exercise staffs, and operations researchers.

From question
to review.

  1. Set the planning basis

    Define the period, supply classes, starting stocks, and estimated requirements. Record where those inputs came from.

  2. Compare supply and demand

    Examine expenditure and replenishment over time. Keep fuel, ammunition, and other requirements distinct.

  3. Find the constraint

    Identify the first projected shortfall and the assumption driving it. Compare an alternative resupply or starting-stock plan.

  4. Carry it into the decision

    Ask what must be replenished, replaced, or funded to sustain the approach. Keep the calculation and the wider strategic judgment distinct.

What to examine

  • A time-based supply balance
  • Projected shortfalls by planning assumption
  • Alternatives to discuss with the wider planning team

Use the interactive supply example below to examine the relationship between stock, expenditure, and resupply. It demonstrates a planning calculation with illustrative inputs; it does not simulate transport disruption or predict combat effects.

A closer look

Is sustainment only a fuel-and-ammunition problem?

No. Those balances are a starting point. Replacement capacity, maintenance, transport, training, lead times, and affordability also shape whether an approach can be repeated. The evaluation scope should identify which questions and evidence are required.

Can we bring our own planning question?

Yes. Start with an unclassified description of the decision and the outputs you need. The team can then discuss appropriate data boundaries and a demonstration.

Bring the question.
Examine it with us.

Tell us what decision you need to support. We will focus the conversation on the relevant workflow, evidence, and outputs.