Next Generation Logistics

The Expeditionary Logistics program, funded under Program Element (PE) 0604289M in the Navy's Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) budget, is focused on advancing logistics capabilities for the United States Marine Corps (USMC). The primary objective of this program is to support the research, development, and prototyping of innovative logistics solutions, with a particular emphasis on additive manufacturing (AM) technologies. Administered by the Marine Corps Systems Command, the program aims to enhance combat readiness and sustainment by enabling Marine units to rapidly produce critical parts and structures in both garrison and expeditionary environments.

The central line item within this program is the development and implementation of additive manufacturing processes and infrastructure across the Marine Corps. This includes the creation of policies, approval processes, engineering analysis, and the establishment of facilities to prototype and produce AM parts. The project also supports the development of training programs to ensure Marines can effectively utilize AM technologies in the field, thereby increasing operational flexibility and reducing logistical delays.

A significant objective is the development of the Digital Manufacturing Data Vault (DMDV), a digital repository designed to store and share technical data and part designs across the Marine Corps, other Department of Defense (DoD) services, and the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA). The DMDV is critical for standardizing and disseminating AM data, facilitating the rapid identification and approval of printable parts, and supporting the sustainment of USMC equipment.

The project also invests in maturing tools that assess equipment for AM part candidacy, enabling the Marine Corps to identify which components can be produced using AM to support both current and future sustainment operations.

Another objective is the experimentation and prototyping of large-scale AM constructs, such as metal and polymer landing craft, concrete structures, and circuit boards. This includes both garrison-based and overseas (OCONUS) experimentation, such as Construction Scale Additive Manufacturing (CSAM), which aims to demonstrate the feasibility of producing infrastructure components in expeditionary settings. The program also plans to standardize advanced manufacturing equipment sets for use in garrison environments, further integrating AM capabilities into daily operations.

The Next Generation Logistics (NexLog) initiative, supported under this program element, focuses on the research and rapid fielding of emerging logistics technologies. This includes the development of autonomous ground, surface, and sub-surface material distribution systems, as well as sensor-driven logistics information technology. These efforts are designed to inform and update logistics policies and enable the Fleet Marine Forces to execute the Marine Corps Operating Concept more effectively.

Strategic partnerships are a key component of the Expeditionary Logistics program. The initiative collaborates with other Department of Navy (DoN) Systems Commands, field activities, and joint service partners to develop DoN-wide standards and processes for additive manufacturing. These partnerships are intended to leverage existing capabilities, align acquisition activities, and promote the adoption of AM and other emerging technologies to improve warfighter readiness, capability, survivability, and effectiveness.

The program employs a non-traditional acquisition strategy, reflecting the enabling nature of additive manufacturing technologies rather than a conventional, milestone-driven platform approach. Funding adjustments in recent years reflect shifts in priorities, such as a reduction in efforts for the expanded development of the Digital Manufacturing Data Vault and a focus on promoting efficiencies in line with government-wide cost-saving initiatives. The Expeditionary Logistics program is positioned to address critical gaps in logistical readiness and provide innovative solutions to support Marine Corps operations in diverse environments.