Lines of Communication Security in the Contemporary Operational Environment

The importance of securing lines of communication (LOC) during warfare has been recognized since the time of Sun Tzu and Thucydides. An Army in the field must be consistently resupplied in order to function effectively. Despite the importance of LOC security, doctrine provides very little guidance for commanders and planners in this area. Many critical lessons concerning LOC security were learned during the Vietnam War; they are being relearned today in Iraq. This monograph examines current LOC security doctrine and the execution of LOC security during the Vietnam War and Operation Iraqi Freedom. The monograph concludes by recommending the addition of Armored Security Vehicle (ASV) equipped units to every Brigade Combat Team. One of the primary missions assigned these units should be LOC security and convoy escort. It also recommends the creation of a separate field manual for theater sustaining operations security in order to fill the current doctrinal void. Finally, to assist in planning for LOC security, the areas of communication, convoy security, regional response forces, and route clearance and maintenance should always be considered.