Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Fall 1990

Abstract

The United States military presence in Central and South America is under attack, both literally and politically, as bombings and sniper fire directed against U.S. military personnel characterize the low-intensity conflict (LIC) environment in certain parts of Latin America. The process of contracting support for U.S. forces in a LIC environment is oriented toward sustaining operations in the field, as opposed to contracting for mobilization or surge production. A significant characteristic of this field support is that a contracting officer (KO) deploys overseas with the supported military unit. Some of the unique concerns faced by a KO deploying with an operational unit involve chain of command disconnects, locating vendors in the local economy, the timeliness of administrative support, obtaining special authorizations for purchases, and maintaining personal security. These concerns are exacerbated by the fact that a deployed contracting officer normally operates one-deep without backup. This article reflects the author's personal experience in Honduras and illustrates the obstacles a KO may encounter in the performance of his mission in a LIC environment.

Source Publication

DISAM Journal

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