Senior Pentagon commanders informed senators about the extensive military efforts of the United States spanning from Europe to the Middle East. Gen. Alexus Grynkewich and Gen. Randall Reed testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee, detailing the intricate process of moving forces, equipment, and supplies across continents. They highlighted the reliance on allied support, commercial transport networks, and aging yet capable mobility fleets for ongoing operations and deterrence efforts.
Operation Epic Fury, the current campaign, demands a high level of coordination among air, naval, and allied forces, according to Grynkewich. He emphasized the critical logistical support provided by European allies to enable US military operations, including access, basing, and overflight for refueling and logistics. US bases and alliances in Europe play a central role in American power projection beyond the continent, Grynkewich added.
Gen. Randall Reed, responsible for global military logistics and transportation, praised the performance of the US mobility system under wartime pressures. He noted the significant role of commercial transportation networks, with about 40% of daily flights being commercial. Reed highlighted the reliance on commercial shipping for sustainment once operations commence, with over 90% of sustainment handled by the commercial fleet.
Lawmakers expressed concerns during the hearing about the vulnerability of commercial carriers and infrastructure to cyberattacks in a major conflict. Reed assured that the Pentagon collaborates with private companies to enhance cyber defenses and monitor vulnerabilities. Grynkewich also raised alarms about Russia’s ongoing ‘hybrid activities’ in Eastern Europe, including sabotage and information operations, while noting that most Russian ground forces are focused on the conflict in Ukraine.
The testimony underscored the increasing significance of logistics and mobility systems in modern warfare, especially as the US prepares for potential conflicts with major powers. Reed emphasized the essential role of strategic airlift aircraft like the C-17 and C-5 in moving American forces overseas, considering that a majority of US troops are based domestically.
