Getting it there : the relationship between military logistics and strategic effectiveness

Although experienced military commanders have always emphasised the importance of logistics in warfare, scholarly researchers have failed to explain how supply factors affect strategic performance. Martin van Creveld, the leading academic author on this subject, argues that detailed logistical planning has little value in war. This thesis counters Van Creveld's argument with the suggestion that logistical planning is indeed decisive in warfare, not only because of the tangible importance of supplies but because of their intangible importance as well. The author portrays logistics as an "arbiter of opportunity" which helps to determine the range of strategic options which military commanders will have at their disposal. This thesis goes on to demonstrate the truth of this statement through the structured, focused comparison of five historical case studies. In conclusion, the author discusses the implications of his work, not only for logistical studies, but for the study of international relations in genera