The market for logistics services in the defence sector is huge, but at the same time it is also highly specialised. Unlike many other sectors, third party logistics providers play only a small part in a market which is dominated by the 'Systems Integrators', that is, the big weapons' manufacturers.

The market has seen fundamental changes over recent years. Previously the supply organisations of armies, navies and air forces were largely concerned with the storage and transport of ammunition, fuel and food. These concerns are still great but with manning levels in armies shrinking and the forces becoming dominated by vastly capable automated weaponry, the focus of armed forces logistics activities has shifted.

What is emerging is an emphasis on the delivery of 'capability' rather than the delivery of spares. The responsibility of maintaining a whole weapon system is moving from the armed forces towards the weapons' manufacturer. The advanced programmes propose looking towards the 'systems integrators' to handle almost all of the maintenance and logistics activities; handing over the aircraft to the air force only when it has to fly.

The impact which these ideas are having on systems' integrators is substantial. Logistics has become a central aspect of their 'offer to the market' even though these companies still view themselves as engineering specialists.

What information does European Defence Logistics 2007 contain?

European Defence Logistics 2007 provides a road map to this complex and fast-changing market. The report offers an ideal introduction to the opportunities which this sector presents to a wide range of different players: IT providers, contract logistics companies, freight forwarders, road and rail contractors, air cargo and shipping operators. Its in-depth examination of the sector is essential reading for defence logistics staff, consultants and analysts.

European Defence Logistics 2007 contains sections on:
• The logistics requirements, strategies and policies of the three main European Defence Departments: United Kingdom, France and Germany.
• The IT systems presently employed and their functionality.
• Analysis and overview of the key European systems’ integrators: Rolls Royce, Thales, Agusta Westland, BAe and EADS.
• The developing role of the third party logistics sector in the market and the key players.
• An analysis of the use of logistics in the recent Iraq War, examining its success and failures.

The report also contains a section on the logistics employed by the British Army during the Iraq War, critiquing its effectiveness and the repercussions it has had, both operationally and politically.