How does supply chain management relate to sustainment?

Supply chain management is integral to sustainment because it ensures the steady and efficient flow of resources to units, which is essential for operational readiness and effectiveness. In a military context, this encompasses the procurement, distribution, and management of supplies and equipment necessary for forces to carry out their missions. Effective supply chain management not only supplies combat units with the necessary resources but also reduces waste, increases efficiency, and enhances the overall operational capability of the force.

While other aspects, such as financial management or inventory control, are indeed important within the broader context of sustainment, they do not fully capture the primary role of supply chain management. Supply chain management is more comprehensive and directly linked to the timely provision of needed resources, which is at the heart of sustainment operations. Additionally, the deployment of forces involves various strategic considerations beyond just the logistical supply chain, making it a separate focus from the management of supplies and resources.