Lessons from a load carrier

Source: The post is based on the article “Lessons from a load carrier” published in “Business standard” on 4th August 2023.

Syllabus: GS3- Security challenges and their management in border areas;

News: The author highlights the Indian Army’s use of Stallion vehicles and their costs. He suggests standardizing military gear for easier logistics. The article promotes involving civilian networks in military logistics and using retired military staff for maintenance. The aim is efficient logistics management.

How would the Indian army be able to standardize a load carrier?

The Indian Army can standardize a load carrier as follows:

Single Vehicle Type: Choose mainly one type of vehicle, like the Stallion by Ashok Leyland, which is already heavily used by the army. For example, the army operates about 50,000 Stallions today.

Commonalities: Even if different vehicles are used, ensure they have basic similarities with the primary chosen type. Like, base vehicle types should have common spare parts with marginally different types.

Reduce Spare Parts Inventory: By standardizing, the army can reduce the number of spare parts needed. For instances, the Soviets simplified logistics by using standard parts across different vehicles.

Involve Civil-Retail Network: Use Ashok Leyland’s wide truck network to simplify delivery and maintenance processes. Like, the Vehicle Factory Jabalpur can anticipate and cater to vehicle service needs through local retailers.

What are the benefits of standardizing a load carrier?

Cost Efficiency: Reduced need for various spare parts. For example, each Stallion costs 230 lakh, with a yearly fleet renewal of about 21,500 crore.

Simplified Logistics: Easier inventory management and reduced complexities. Like, Soviet Union simplified their military logistics by using standardized parts across different equipment.

Maintenance Predictability: Easier to anticipate servicing needs and spare parts consumption. Such as, Vehicle Factory Jabalpur can pre-ship components based on anticipated consumption.

Civil-Retail Involvement: Opportunity to involve local retail networks for better delivery and maintenance. For example, Ashok Leyland’s network can be used for transporting Stallions directly to military units.

Re-employment: Retired military personnel can maintain equipment they are familiar with. Like, Ex-servicemen can service equipment they used during service.