Analysis of Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration in a Coalition Framework

Multinational logistics is proposed as having considerable potential, but this has yet to be substantially realized in any post-Cold War coalition operation. This delta between what is perceived possible and the current level of logistic support to coalition operations is the impetus for this monograph. The intent is to explore the potential and limitations of multinational logistics. Rather than a broad, generic analysis of this topic, specificity allows a more concrete appraisal of the issues. This is achieved through focus upon a logistic function and placing the analysis in the context of an actual coalition relationship. The function chosen for this purpose is Reception, Staging, Onward Movement and Integration (RSOI). The coalition partners chosen are the U.S. and Australia. The purpose, therefore, is to seek options to improve the conduct of RSOI within the framework of the U.S. and Australian military relationship. This in turn becomes a micro-analysis of multinational logistics. The methodology used to achieve this purpose entails an assessment of the current levels of interoperability between Australian and the U.S., defined in terms of doctrine equipment and demonstrated performance.