Page 116 - MDSL Final

MARITIME DOCTRINE OF SRI LANKA

Although the D-Day invasion was the most massive
amphibious assault ever conducted, the principle of
economy of force would actually be applied in many ways
during OVERLORD.

Economy of force measures were applied before, during
and after D-Day. In the months prior to the invasion, the
Allies began to work closely with the French resistance.
Teams of two officers (British or American) and a radio
operator were dropped all over France to train French
Resistance fighters. Several groups of Special Air Service
(SAS) men also parachuted into France with jeeps to
undermine German lines of communication.

The British Special Operations Executive (SOE) supplied
the resistance at night with airdrops in remote fields
temporarily lit by torch at the sound of aircraft. With the
assistance of these small teams, the resistance would play
a vital role prior to and after D-Day by sabotaging bridges,
railways, and telephone lines, assassinating German
officers, and providing targeting information and other
intelligence.

Sustainability

Sustainability refers to the support arrangements necessary to
implement strategies and operational plans. These arrangements include
those personnel efforts and logistics necessary for the efficient support
of a force committed to operations. The principle of sustainability is
considered as an element of maritime power itself, especially a base
at which all the material necessary to equip a ship and prepare ship’s
company for sea is located. It comprises with training institutions,
logistics, repair and maintenance facilities and medical services that
necessary to enhance operational abilities and support the war fighting
for maritime forces.

98 To Nurture a Stable Environment at Sea