Prospects and Challenges of Integrating Digital Technologies in the Military Supply Chain
摘要
The military, as a complex and resource-intensive organization, maintains extensive logistical infrastructure and material assets that offer considerable potential for systemic optimization. Given the scale, heterogeneity, and mission-critical nature of defense operations, the imperative to modernize supply chain structures has become increasingly urgent. Digital technologies—such as blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) methodologies—are emerging as key enablers of this transformation. These technologies support enhanced traceability, real-time monitoring, and lifecycle management, while also fostering alignment with circular economy principles, particularly in material reuse, waste reduction, and sustainable resource flows. This study proposes a conceptual framework for the progressive digitalization of military logistics, with a focus on the incorporation of quantitative decision-support tools and mathematical optimization models. Despite their potential, significant implementation challenges remain—ranging from cybersecurity vulnerabilities and system interoperability to institutional inertia. The framework aims to inform future empirical research and guide the structured deployment of adaptive, transparent, and sustainability-oriented logistics systems in the defense sector.