How does sustainment logistics differ from initial logistic support?

Sustainment logistics is primarily concerned with the ongoing support and maintenance of operations after initial logistic support has been established. This involves ensuring that all systems, personnel, and resources maintain readiness and operational capability throughout the duration of a mission or operation. Sustainment logistics encompasses activities such as replenishing supplies, providing maintenance for equipment, and managing logistics resources to adapt to changing operational requirements.

The focus on continuous support contrasts with initial logistic support, which is primarily about setting up resources, systems, and processes to get an operation started. Initial support often involves the logistics necessary for the commencement of activities, while sustainment logistics ensures that operations can continue effectively over an extended period. This ongoing support is crucial for mission success, as it addresses the dynamic and evolving needs of forces in the field, making sustainment logistics a key component of overall logistics management.