Mountain warfare always entails the battle of the high ground – the decisive terrain. Consequently, the logistical support of combat forces must also occur there.

Combat operations in mountainous terrain can only yield success when the deployed forces are adequately supplied with essential ammunition, fuel, water and combat rations. Damaged equipment, vehicles and weapons should be removed, and repairs should be carried out.

In the absence of resupply, combat units deployed in the mountains have an estimated operational endurance of approximately five days, during which they must rely on the supplies carried in their backpacks (self-sustainment). Within this five-day window, it is imperative to establish a resilient supply chain which delivers the critical supplies required by the engaged forces.

In mountain warfare, the primary supplies are ammunition, water (especially during the summer), combat rations, and fuel for stoves, heaters, and generators. Secondary priorities include materials and tools for entrenching and building field fortifications, as well as replacement clothing and equipment. The evacuation and exchange of damaged equipment are of tertiary importance. The supplies must reach the positions of the engaged troops; it is crucial that the supply chain does not stop at the base of the mountain.

This supply chain in mountainous terrain is primarily contingent on three principal factors:

• Topography
• The prevailing meteorological conditions
• The volume and weight of the supplies

Factor I: Topography

Topography stands out as the paramount factor. Beyond the incline that must be conquered, the condition of roads and pathways serves as the chief limiting factor, impacting the extent of logistical routes and the duration of logistical operations.

In mountainous regions, often only a limited number of ‘main’ supply routes and lines of communication are serviceable. In the valleys, asphalted, ‘high-capacity’ roads are available. As altitude increases, gravel roads, paths, and trails become the norm. The combat actions of mountain troops are likely to take place in areas with no established paths.

In the event that one of these routes becomes obstructed due to environmental factors (such as avalanches, etc.) or enemy activities, extensive detours must be undertaken to reach the engaged units. Where supply routes are rare and/or bypass options are limited, it is advisable to maintain transportation capabilities on both sides of the primary supply route. In the event of an obstacle/barrier, this approach mitigates the necessity of carrying supplies beyond the obstacle/barrier. Consequently, only the obstruction needs to be surmounted, and supplies must be transhipped.

The battle for control of the high ground/decisive terrain also implies the imperative to maintain thorough surveillance of supply routes, typically from these high grounds. However, the high ground also provides the adversary with favourable positions for utilizing artillery fire, close air support (CAS), and drones against logistical convoys. Given the challenging terrain, all convoys must hold 360° self-security on the move.

As the altitude rises, the availability of infrastructure diminishes. Wherever possible, existing huts, cowsheds, and bivouac accommodation should be employed for the establishment of depots or concealed supply caches. These depots and caches serve to shorten the supply chain and enhance the sustainability of the deployed forces. Frequently, makeshift infrastructure may need to be constructed.

Altitude not only affects the physical capabilities of the troops but also those of helicopters. These aerial assets can only be effectively employed up to a specific altitude.

The maintenance and repair of vehicles, weapons, communication equipment, generators, and other essential gear usually necessitates the utilization of heavy tools and machinery. Mobile workshop facilities integrated into vehicles can only be deployed in areas accessible by these vehicles. Maintenance and repair of vehicles ceases when the paved roads end.

In mountainous terrain and remote areas, repairs are typically limited to small arms, communication equipment, and generators. For optimal operational efficiency, it is recommended to establish appropriate facilities within the limited available infrastructure. In general, it is more prudent to maintain an ample supply of replacement weapons, equipment, and materials to transport  damaged equipment to the repair facilities located in the valley.

Factor II: Prevailing meteorological conditions

The second factor to consider is the climatic conditions in mountainous terrain. In exposed areas, soldiers’ fluid requirements significantly increase, especially during the heat of summer. This increased demand is further exacerbated by the heightened physical exertion required when ascending. It is to be expected that the estimated minimum requirement of 10 litres per soldier will be significantly exceeded. Complicating matters, there is progressively less water available at higher altitudes during the summer. Consequently, an elevated supply of water is necessary.

Heavy rainfall is not uncommon, especially in mountainous regions. This not only hinders movements in the mountains but can also damage or destroy improperly stored supplies. The only solution in such cases is once again the utilization of the limited available infrastructure.

The use of helicopters is, in addition to the altitude, also subject to weather conditions. In unfavourable weather, alternative methods of transport must be planned and prepared.

In high-altitude and winter conditions, temperatures can drop significantly. Snow and avalanches can render areas inaccessible, cutting off the fighting force from resupply. Under these conditions, it is essential to store temperature-sensitive supplies in a warm environment to prevent freezing. Repair work, especially delicate tasks with insulated gloves outside heated facilities, becomes challenging. In general, personnel must wear tough gloves at a minimum to prevent freezing of the skin to metal surfaces.

In remote areas, a minimum of 7 days of supplies (DoS) in summer and 14 DoS in winter should be stockpiled. This is necessary to ensure that the mountain fighting force is not cut off by adverse weather conditions.

Factor III: The volume and weight of the supplies

The third factor is the dimensions and weight of the supplies. On an average day of combat, a mountain infantry company alone requires 1.5 tons of ammunition for their small arms, anti-tank weapons, and hand grenades