Defense Transportation Journal

The Official Publication of the National Defense Transportation Association

April 2024

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FEATURES FUELING THE FIGHT: USTRANSCOM April 2024 • Vol 80, No. 2

CLOSES GAPS WITH INDUSTRY

10

By USTRANSCOM Global Bulk Fuel Management and Delivery Division

PUBLISHER

VADM William A. Brown, USN (Ret.) MANAGING EDITOR

Sharon Lo | slo@cjp.com CIRCULATION MANAGER

Leah Ashe | leah@ndtahq.com PUBLISHING OFFICE

NDTA 50 South Pickett Street, Suite 220 Alexandria, VA 22304-7296 703-751-5011 • F 703-823-8761

CYBER OPERATIONAL READINESS ASSESSMENT PROGRAM UNDERPINS MISSION ASSURANCE

12

By Steven Maica

THE 2024 NDTA-DTMO GOVTRAVELS SYMPOSIUM

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DEPARTMENTS NDTA FOUNDATION HALL OF FAME......................................................................................6 PRESIDENT’S CORNER | VADM William A. Brown, USN (Ret.).................................................7 CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE........................................................................................................... 28 HONOR ROLL........................................................................................................................ 29 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS....................................................................................................... 30

Defense Transportation Journal (ISSN 0011-7625) is published bimonthly by the National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA), a non-profit research and educational organization; 50 South Pickett Street, Suite 220, Alexandria, VA 22304-7296, 703-751-5011. Copyright by NDTA. Periodicals postage paid at Alexandria, Virginia, and at additional mailing offices.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES: One year (six issues) $40. Two years, $60. Three years, $75. To foreign post offices, $45. Single copies, $6 plus postage. The DTJ is free to members. For details on membership, visit www.ndtahq.com.

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EDITORIAL OBJECTIVES The editorial objectives of the Defense Transportation Journal are to advance knowledge and science in defense logistics and transportation and the partnership between the commercial transportation industry and the government transporter. DTJ stimulates thought and effort in the areas of defense transportation, logistics, and distribution by providing readers with: • News and information about defense logistics and transportation issues • New theories or techniques • Information on research programs • Creative views and syntheses of new concepts • Articles in subject areas that have significant current impact on thought and practice in defense logistics and transportation • Reports on NDTA Chapters

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EDITORIAL POLICY The Defense Transportation Journal is designed as a forum for current research, opinion, and identification of trends in defense transportation and logistics. The opinions expressed are those of the authors and not necessarily of the Editors, the Editorial Review Board, or NDTA. EDITORIAL CONTENT Archives are available to members on www.ndtahq.com.

Sharon Lo, Managing Editor, DTJ NDTA 50 South Pickett Street, Suite 220 Alexandria, VA 22304-7296 703-751-5011 • F 703-823-8761 slo@cjp.com

6 | Defense Transportation Journal | APRIL 2024

As the Foundation is funded by voluntary donations, with your support, the Foundation will be empowered to help students for decades to come. Please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to help our future professionals have a future. Visit https://www.ndtahq.com/foundation/ to find out more. GIVE HAPPY - The NDTA Foundation is now a vetted charity listed in Combined Federal Campaign! CFC charity code #94212

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Exploring Readiness

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE

VADM William A. Brown, USN (Ret.) NDTA President & CEO Greetings NDTA Team, This edition of the DTJ delves into two critical issues surrounding the deployment of forces and the movement of sustainment resources to the point of need—global bulk fuel management and delivery, and cyber operational assurance. Both topics are critical to meeting readiness challenges in contested environments. In fact, USTRANSCOM Commander, Gen Jacqueline Van Ovost recently testified before Congress that refueling is her top readiness concern, just behind the country's aging sealift fleet.

Additionally, you will find keynote speaker insights from the recent GovTravels Symposium. In particular, please see the discussion points on sustainability and Artificial Intelligence. These keynote summaries provide insights into the latest developments and best practices in government travel management.

Currently, we are seeing the US’s deployment of Joint Logistics-Over-the-Shore (JLOTS) to support humanitarian operations in Gaza. While such capabilities are not used frequently, capabilities such as JLOTS and Offshore Petroleum Discharge

• Alamo City Engineering Services Inc. • Federated Maritime, LLC • JET Infrastructure (upgrade) SUSTAINING • C5T Corporation (upgrade) • Everts Air Cargo • Preferred Corporate Housing • Priority Worldwide (upgrade) • Wertz Motor Coaches REGIONAL PATRONS • NorSea Denmark A/S

System (OPDS) can play essential roles in supporting operations in austere environments. JLOTS and OPDS provide a flexible and rapid means of offloading cargo and fuel from ships at sea and transportSee Pres. Corner pg. 30

SURFACE FORCE PROJECTION CONFERENCE “Ready Now – Contested Joint Force Deployments to and through Strategic Ports”

May 14-17, 2024 Christopher Newport University, Newport News, VA REGISTER TODAY! www.ndtahq.com/events/sfpc/ This conference focuses on CONUS strategic seaports, surface transportation modes, and unique challenges associated with operations in and through the contested environment now and in the future.

The National Defense Transportation Associa­ tion (NDTA) and Christopher Newport University’s Center for American Studies (CAS), along with the NDTA Surface Transportation Committee and Ports Subcommittee, partner with USTRANSCOM’s Military Surface

Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC), and Military Sealift Command, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Ad­ ministration (MARAD), the logistics and transportation industry, and academia to examine a wide range of challenges associated with deploying forces and moving sus­tainment to the point of need. Together we will build and strengthen our relationships, examine chal­ lenges, look for solutions, educate and collaborate, and find ways to improve readiness and capacity.

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Fueling the Fight: USTRANSCOM Closes Gaps with Industry

The world’s largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford receives fuel lines from USNS Laramie (T-AO-203) to conduct a fueling-at-sea in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea on October 11, 2023. Gerald R. Ford is the US Navy's newest and most advanced aircraft carrier, representing a generational leap in the service's capacity to project power on a global scale. The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the US Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by US Sixth Fleet to defend US, allied, and partner interests. US Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Triniti Lersch/Released.

I

By USTRANSCOM Global Bulk Fuel Management and Delivery Division

n an era defined by technological advancements and global conflicts, the relationship between industry and the Department of Defense (DOD) has forged groundbreaking innovations and reshaped the landscape of modern warfare.

From pioneering aerospace technologies to revolutionizing communication systems, the collaborative efforts between the civilian enterprise and the US Military have driven the nation’s defense capabilities to unprecedented heights. However, in a resource-constrained environment, it is critical for the DOD to consider not only its warfighting platforms but also what fuels them.

Throughout history, the fuel industry has played an integral role in supporting the DOD during conflicts. In 1942, German U-boats would target and sink US oil tankers before they could even begin their trans-Atlantic journey, choking fuel to the Eastern Front.

To mitigate risk to these tankers, the US worked with industry to build two major 10 | Defense Transportation Journal | APRIL 2024

pipelines that led from Texas to New York.

These lifelines moved more than seven million barrels of fuel daily, helping protect our tankers while sustaining the fight in the European theater.

This close relationship with the fuel industry has been and continues to be integral to safeguarding national interests at home and abroad. But our world is at an inflection point, and fuel is a strategic advantage that near-peer adversaries could challenge in a modern conflict. To secure this edge, the Defense Department in 2023 named US Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) the single manager of the military’s global bulk fuel.

Just months later on December 11-12, USTRANSCOM’s newly formed Global Bulk Fuel Management and Delivery Division, and the Defense Logistics AgencyEnergy, hosted a classified Industry Day at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois.

This first-ever event within the Joint Petroleum Enterprise (JPE) brought 22 commercial companies and 18 government organizations together to discuss five stra-

tegic gaps: global prioritization, command and control, lack of assured distribution, sub-optimal governance, and insufficient human capital. More specifically, the event focused on the secret-level challenges within the US Indo-Pacific Command theater.

During the event, USTRANSCOM Global Bulk Fuel Division Chief, Col Daniel Mendoza, USAF, noted that “history has shown us time and time again that our success on the battlefield depends upon the strength of our industrial base and our relationships with the commercial sector. Incorporating our commercial partners into these conversations is imperative to [DOD’s] success.”

This event is a significant step in the journey to optimize our nation's bulk fuel infrastructure, a path paved by our strategic partnership with leading commercial industry players.

Our industry partners not only found the event format satisfactory but also played a pivotal role in providing valuable feedback on the commercial capabilities to address the identified issues. Recognizing

A Senior Airman from the 386th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels distribution operator, communicates with the ramp operator to begin refueling a C-17 Globemaster III at an undisclosed location in Southwest Asia. Photo by Tech.

Sgt. Tony Trolley/Released.

the crucial role of the commercial industry in pre-crisis and conflict planning will enhance our understanding of the commercial petroleum sector and establish robust lines of communication for uninterrupted fuel support to the warfighter.

Planning, hosting, and executing the event highlighted two overarching issues across the JPE that must be resolved to improve future endeavors.

The first was the DOD's lack of understanding of industry capabilities. The human capital gap within the JPE significantly impedes the DOD's ability to articulate requirements properly and has resulted in the DOD requesting solutions that aren't optimal. This highlighted the need for the DOD to learn about industry options earlier in the planning cycle so that planners can ask for efficient and effective solutions.

The second overarching issue was the importance of industry being able to participate in classified planning and information-sharing events.

To fully utilize our industry partner's expertise, we must be able to communicate with industry at a higher level of security classification than is common today. As noted above, there is a great need to talk to industry partners earlier in the planning cycle, but those conversations typically must occur, at a minimum, at the secret classification level. Many companies have personnel with active and valid security clearances, but they often lack the required Facility Security Clearance (FCL). Without an FCL, companies are unable to participate in these discussions.

Like the petroleum supply chain challenges in World War II, Mendoza added, logistics was, is, and always will be contested. However, the key to overcoming these obstacles is working with industry partners early to ensure the joint force can fight and win in any environment. DTJ

An F-22 Raptor receives fuel from a KC-10 Extender during a mission in support of Operation Inherent Resolve over Syria on August 7, 2017. The F-22 is a component of the Global Strike Task Force, supporting US and coalition forces working to liberate territory and people under the control of ISIS. US Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Trevor T. McBride/Released.

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 37th Armored Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas, refuel an M109 Paladin from the 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery Regiment, during Iron Union 18-6 in the United Arab Emirates on January 23, 2018. Iron Union is a recurring exercise focusing on combined arms, security, and staff operations. It is designed to strengthen military-to-military relations between the US and the UAE land forces.

It is a training opportunity for both countries to build tactical proficiency in critical mission areas, gain an understanding of each other's forces, and support long-term regional stability. US Army photo by SGT Thomas X. Crough, US ARCENT PAO/Released. www.ndtahq.com | 11

Cyber Operational Readiness Assessment Program Underpins Mission Assurance

O

By Steven Mavica, Joint Force Headquarters – Department of Defense Information Network

ver the past four years, Joint Force Headquarters — Department of Defense Information Network (JFHQ-DODIN) has made significant changes to the Defense Department Command Cyber Readiness Inspection program, transforming mindsets from inspection compliance to operational readiness underpinning mission assurance.

To enunciate this significant shift, the program has been renamed to the Cyber Operational Readiness Assessment (CORA).

According to Lt Gen Robert Skinner, USAF, Commander of JFHQ-DODIN, CORA is one of the most critical components of the DOD's cyber security strategy and lays a strong cornerstone to support the command's goal of continuous holistic assessments. The new processes help strengthen the posture and resiliency

12 | Defense Transportation Journal | APRIL 2024

by supporting the DODIN Areas of Operation (DAO) commanders and directors in efforts to harden their information systems, reduce the attack surface of their cyber terrain, and enhance a more proactive defense. These are the foundational cybersecurity principles measured by the CORA program.

"CORA is a vital aspect of continually understanding our cyber readiness through fusing many risk factors including access control, detecting anomalies, adjusting to adversary threat information and executing cyber orders," said Skinner. "Ultimately, the assessment provides commanders and directors a more precise understanding of their high-priority cyber terrain and their overall cyber security and defensive posture enabling greater command and control and enhancing decision making."

As John Porter, JFHQ-DODIN's Acting Director of DODIN Readiness and Security Inspections Directorate, shared "CORA represents a consolidated look at threat, vulnerability and impact designed to give DAO commanders and directors relevant information for making decisions about cyber terrain, forces and other resources."

"CORA prioritizes MITRE ATT&CK mitigations to minimize adversarial risk to the DODINs through JFHQ-DODIN's risk-based metrics. The command created risk-based metrics after analyzing MITRE ATT&CK tactics, techniques, and procedures for initial access, persistence, privilege escalation, lateral movement and exfiltration," said Porter.

MITRE ATT&CK is a knowledge base of adversarial TTPs utilized by cyber defenders worldwide to protect and defend

information systems and networks and hunt malicious actors.

According to Porter, "the JFHQ-DODIN CORA team developed key indicators of risk from the risk-based metrics to ensure alignment with JFHQ-DODIN cybersecurity priorities and to direct focus onto the most critical areas of remediation."

This, in turn, allows organizations to focus their mitigation efforts on risk and exposure to common adversarial TTPs. He added, "focusing on these essential remediation points allows DOD Components to concentrate limited resources and staffing on correcting high-risk areas." JFHQ-DODIN risk-based metrics and CORA key indicators of risk are adjusted as the MITRE ATT&CK TTPs and mitigations priorities shift, enabling the CORA program to keep pace with the

rapidly changing cyber domain.

In addition to the key indicators of risk, Porter said "CORA is hyper-focused on securing the boundary." The boundary consists of network perimeter devices, public and DOD-facing assets servicing the public or external DOD components, and any information systems with a direct interface to an external information system. The boundary reviews measure the cyber-hardening risk of information systems exposed to the public internet and the possibility that the malicious activity could spread to other DOD Components if an information system is compromised.

The CORA has become a more agile process encouraging and enabling adjustments in strides. The assessment can be adjusted as new orders, policies, or directives are issued, add new assessed technology if Security Technical Implementation

Guides exist, and adjust key risk indicators as the threat landscape changes.

The program will help ensure a strong cybersecurity foundation for all DOD networks. It will help DAO commanders and directors better understand the status of their high-priority terrain and their overall cyber security readiness and defensive posture and provide them with relevant information for making decisions about terrain, forces and other resources.

At the same time, it will provide the US Cyber Command and JFHQ-DODIN commanders a greater understanding of level of risk to the DODIN. CORA is crucial for validating current, future, and emerging technologies that will help the DOD continuously monitor and assess terrain to assess and mitigate risk across the DODIN. DTJ

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2024

The NDTA-DTMO GovTravels Symposium

NDTA-DTMO’s Symposium on The Future of Government Travel: Government Travel & Passenger Services Trends in Sustainability, Innovation, and Evolving Technologies February 26-28, 2024 | Alexandria, VA

The Future of Government Travel:

Trends in Sustainability, Innovation, and Evolving Technologies The GovTravels summary material was written using a combination of Artificial Intelligence and Human Intelligence (AI + HI). It is intended to provide an overview of presentations and should not be considered verbatim. This information does not necessarily represent the official position of the US government or any of its entities, NDTA, or any of its corporate members. We regret any errors or omissions. All photos by Cherie Cullen. For more information regarding the meeting, please visit NDTA’s website at www.ndtahq.com.

February 26-28, 2024

14 | Defense Transportation Journal | APRIL 2024

Hilton Alexandria Mark Center Alexandria, VA

The Future of Government Travel

M

ore than 1,100 government and industry leaders recently convened for the ninth Annual GovTravels Symposium. Co-sponsored by the National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA) and the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO), GovTravels took place February 26-28, 2024, at the Hilton Alexandria Mark Center in Alexandria, Virginia.

Each year the Symposium brings together travel and transportation professionals to build relationships, exchange ideas, educate and collaborate, learn about innovative technologies, and find ways to improve the federal government’s commercial travel readiness.

This year’s theme, The Future of Government Travel: Trends in Sustainability, Innovation, and Evolving Technologies, focused forward, challenging attendees to consider new developments in passenger travel within the context of protecting and preserving the environment.

NDTA President and CEO VADM William A. “Andy” Brown, USN, served as master of ceremonies for the event. He underscored the significance of collaboration between government and industry in navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advancements and sustainability imperatives.

The Joint Armed Forces Color Guard presented by the Military District of Wash-

ington served as color guard. Technical Sergeant Samuel Allen from the United States Air Force Band Singing Sergeants performed the National Anthem.

Bryan Scott, Chair of NDTA’s Government Passenger Travel Advisory Council (GPTAC), provided an overview of the meeting presentations. He also recognized the hard work of members of the GPTAC including the Council’s Vice Chair and the Chairs of its six committees, which include the Car Rental, Travel Management, Long-Term Lodging, Bus, Hotel Lodging, and Airline Committees.

Director Jennifer McPherson-Todd welcomed the audience on behalf of DTMO. She acknowledged that the travel landscape had undergone significant changes in recent years and emphasized the importance of sustainability in government travel, aligning with President Biden's directive to prioritize sustainable transportation for official travel.

“Everyone in the industry, and specifically those of us who are responsible for government travel understand that travel itself is dynamic. Travel has changed and we all understand we need to be ready for it. And it's time to focus on innovation and technology and sustainability in travel.

That time is now. Change can be hard—we all know that. But as the landscape of travel shifts, our collective job is to meet those challenges head on,” said McPherson-Todd.

www.ndtahq.com | 15

Lauren Concklin, Deputy Director of Travel Category Management at GSA, echoed McPherson-Todd's sentiments on the prioritization of sustainability, emphasizing the pivotal role of category management in modernizing government travel.

“At its core category management is more than just the buying of products and services. It's understanding the supply chain from sourcing to delivery. It's identifying opportunities to add value at every step. It’s about building really strong relationships with our suppliers and negotiating favorable terms for both sides— and ensuring that we meet the customer's mission. Throughout the next two days, I hope we all embrace category management and make it a priority in all our discussions,” said Concklin.

The meeting agenda incorporated a wide variety of interactive government and industry meetings and professional development sessions, keynote speakers and moderated panels, exhibit hall and networking sessions, a Travel Academy including sixteen classes spread over four sessions, continuing education unit credits, and young leader events.

The GovTravels Symposium provided a platform for the robust exchange of ideas and best practices, empowering participants to glean actionable insights and forge meaningful connections.



Travel/Transportation Technology Coming Your Way

I

n the ever-evolving landscape of government and military operations, the seamless integration of travel, transportation, and cutting-edge technology stands as a pivotal frontier. GovTravels 2024 keynote speaker Rita Visser, Director Global Travel Sourcing & GPO at Oracle, offered profound insights into this future. With three decades of travel industry experience, including a significant focus on government contracts through Oracle’s recent acquisition of Cerner, Visser’s perspectives bridge the gap between commercial travel innovation and its applications within government and military travel.

16 | Defense Transportation Journal | APRIL 2024

Adapting to Change: The New Era of Government Travel The presentation title, Travel/Transportation Technology Coming Your Way, aptly captured the essence of the transitional phase government and military travel is currently undergoing. As Visser shared her journey from Rosenbluth to Oracle, it became evident that the crux of advancing government travel lies in leveraging technology not as a tool but as a transformative force. The complexity of managing travel for Oracle’s vast workforce across 157 countries has bestowed her with invaluable insights applicable to government

and military passenger travel. The focus in these instances shifts from the mere act of traveling to how digital innovations can redefine this experience, enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring the security of personnel.

Digital Transformation: A Strategic Imperative The discourse on travel technology’s future, as presented by Visser, is not merely speculative but grounded in emerging realities. The military sector, with its unique requirements for precision, security, and rapid adaptability, stands to gain significantly from embracing these innovations.

The concept of a “universal profile,” where each traveler’s preferences, security clearances, and logistical needs are integrated into a seamless digital framework, mirrors the strategic advantage such personalization offers to military operations.

This vision extends beyond convenience, proposing a future where travel arrangements—from deployment to training missions—are dynamically optimized in real-time. The implications for readiness, operational security, and logistical efficiency are profound, marking a departure from traditional travel management towards a more agile, responsive model.

Overcoming Challenges: The Road Ahead The journey towards this digitized future is not without its obstacles. Data privacy, cybersecurity, and the integration of disparate technological systems pose significant challenges. However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation, particularly in developing secure, scalable platforms that can accommodate the unique needs of government and military travelers. Visser’s insights underscore the importance of collaboration across sectors, urging the military community to engage with technological advancements proactively. By partnering with industry leaders and leveraging commercial best practices, military travel can transcend traditional limitations, achieving unprecedented levels of efficiency and security.

ciencies to encompass a broader strategic dimension. In an era where global mobility and rapid response are paramount, the ability to move personnel securely and efficiently constitutes a strategic asset. Visser’s call to action for the defense community is clear: To navigate the future of government and military travel successfully, embracing innovation is not optional but essential. As the GovTravels Symposium illustrated, the path forward for government and military travel is one of integration, innovation, and anticipation. The military sector, with its rich history of technological innovation, is uniquely positioned to lead this charge.

By embracing the technologies that prom-

ise to redefine travel, military leaders can ensure that their operations remain at the cutting edge of efficiency, security, and strategic mobility.

Charting the Course: Anticipating Tomorrow’s Journeys Today In closing, Visser left the audience with a vision of the future where travel is not a challenge to be managed but an opportunity to be optimized. This future, characterized by personalized, predictive travel experiences, is not merely a possibility but an impending reality. For the government and military sectors, the implications are

A Call to Arms: Embracing Innovation in Military Travel The transformative potential of travel technology extends beyond logistical effiwww.ndtahq.com | 17

When your mission depends on freight, you can depend on Crowley crowley.com/dfts 18 | Defense Transportation Journal | APRIL 2024

CARRY THE WORLD. FORWARD.

clear: The future of travel offers a landscape brimming with potential. By leveraging technology to enhance mobility, security, and operational flexibility, military and government travel can set new standards for excellence. As we stand on the thresh-

old of this new era, the lessons of the past and the innovations of the present point us towards a future where government and military travel is not just efficient and secure but a testament to the transformative power of technology. The journey ahead

promises to reshape not just how we travel, but why we travel—reinforcing the strategic value of mobility in national defense and government operations.



Travel Trends & Innovations

D

efense travel is undergoing significant transformations, driven by innovative technologies, and changing global dynamics. In a recent panel discussion on Travel Trends and Innovations, moderated by Laura Kistler, Senior Director, Defense and Defense Contractor Customer, CWTSatoTravel, industry leaders gathered to share insights and forecast the future of travel for defense professionals.

The panel included Glenn Hollister, Vice President Sales Strategy and Effectiveness, United Airlines; Paul Reh, Vice President Customer Experience, Enterprise Mobility; Kevin Gay, Director, Head of Safety, Autonomous Mobility and Delivery, Uber; Robert Tappan, Managing Director, International Biometrics + Identity Association; and Tom Kershaw, Chief Product Technology Officer, Travelport.

Autonomous Mobility and Safety Enhancements Gay discussed the groundbreaking strides in autonomous mobility, highlighting how

autonomous vehicles are set to redefine the concept of travel. He described the future of electric, shared, and autonomous transport, with safety as the paramount concern. Autonomous vehicles are expected to significantly reduce human error on the roads, which is particularly pertinent to defense personnel who require reliable and secure transportation. Integrating these vehicles into platforms like Uber is not just about transforming personal transport but also enhancing the safety and efficiency of defense travel logistics.

Digital Transformation in Car Rentals Reh shed light on the digital transformation in car rental services, focusing on enhancing customer experience through digitization. The shift towards digital platforms aims to alleviate common pain points such as vehicle pick-up and return.

By implementing digital check-in processes and leveraging biometric solutions, the goal is to streamline operations and pro-

vide a more seamless and secure service for defense professionals, who often face tight schedules and high-pressure scenarios.

Advancements in Air Travel Hollister spoke about the efforts to improve sustainability and customer experience in air travel. United is focusing on New Distribution Capability (NDC) to provide more personalized travel options and transparency in ticketing and services. Additionally, the airline is investing in sustainable aviation fuels and exploring new technologies to reduce carbon emissions, aligning with the defense sector’s growing commitment to environmental responsibility.

Security and Digital Identity Tappan discussed the critical role of digital identity and biometrics in enhancing travel security. The use of facial recognition technology at TSA checkpoints is aimed See Travel Trends pg. 23

www.ndtahq.com | 19

Innovative Technology for Today and Tomorrow The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities While the future painted by Parker is one of optimism, it is not without its challenges. The TSA's innovative endeavors, from exploring biometric solutions to deploying AI for threat detection, underscore the ongoing battle against emerging security threats. For the military and government sectors, these innovations are not just about convenience but are integral to operational readiness and security.

I

lluminating the Transportation Security Agency’s (TSA) innovative strides, the Agency’s Chief Innovation Officer Steven Parker painted a vivid picture of what the future holds for government and military passenger travel. With a rich background that marries legal expertise with industry innovation, Parker is steering TSA towards a future where technology and security converge to create a seamless, efficient, and safer travel experience.

The TSA Beyond Security Checkpoints Often synonymous with airport security checkpoints, TSA's scope, as Parker elaborated, extends much further. With responsibilities spanning across various modes of transportation, including pipelines, mass transit, and freight rail, TSA's innovation drive is holistic. This approach is critical for government and military personnel, whose travel needs are as diverse as they are complex.

Collaboration as the Catalyst for Innovation across the globe. Innovations like facial recognition technology for identity verification and automated processes for luggage handling hint at a future where focus can shift from the logistics of travel to the mission at hand.

Harnessing Technology for Security and Efficiency The TSA's commitment to innovation is not just about enhancing traveler experience but also about bolstering security. Parker highlighted several areas where technology is making significant inroads, from advanced imaging technology that can detect non-metallic objects to algorithms designed to identify prohibited items with greater accuracy. For military and government travelers, such advancements promise a balance between stringent security requirements and the need for operational agility.

Envisioning Travel in 2050

Empowering the Frontline with Innovation

Parker's insights ventured into the future, imagining a travel scenario in 2050 where driverless taxis, air taxis, and a seamless airport experience underscored by advanced technology make travel stress-free and efficient. Such a vision is particularly resonant for military and government travel professionals, who often face the dual challenge of managing secure yet swift movements

Parker's strategy emphasizes bottom-up innovation, recognizing that those on the frontline often hold the keys to transformative changes. This philosophy could serve as a model for military and government travel programs, where leveraging insights from personnel who navigate travel logistics daily could unlock efficiencies and improve security protocols.

20 | Defense Transportation Journal | APRIL 2024

Parker's presentation underscores the importance of collaboration between the TSA, its transportation industry partners, and the broader security ecosystem. This collaborative spirit is something that military and government travel professionals can take to heart, as it is through partnerships and shared visions that the future of secure, efficient travel will be realized.

Preparing for Tomorrow's Travel Today As we stand on the cusp of a new era in travel, driven by unparalleled technological advancements, the insights shared by Parker offer both inspiration and a roadmap. For those responsible for orchestrating government and military travel, the message is clear: By embracing innovation, fostering collaboration, and staying ahead of security challenges, we can ensure that our travel systems are not only efficient and secure but are also ready to meet the demands of tomorrow. In a world where change is the only constant, the TSA's vision for the future of travel is a beacon for all who navigate the complex terrain of government and military passenger travel.

As we look to the horizon, it is with the knowledge that through innovation and collaboration, we can achieve a travel experience that is seamless, secure, and tailored to the needs of those who serve our nation.

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A.I.: It’s Here and Will Change the Government Traveler’s Experience for a future where AI's full potential can be harnessed to revolutionize defense and government travel.

AI: Beyond the Horizon

I

n the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI), the defense and government sectors stand on the brink of a revolution. At the 2024 GovTravels Symposium, Dr. Amir Bagherpour, Managing Director at Accenture Federal Services, delivered a compelling keynote that underscored the transformative potential of AI in enhancing the government traveler's experience. As a vanguard in the development of AI platforms and advanced analytics for national security and federal civilian agencies, Dr. Bagherpour's insights offer a glimpse into a future where travel is not just a process, but an optimized, personalized journey enabled by AI.

The Genesis of AI in Defense and Government Dr. Bagherpour began with a historical perspective, highlighting how the seeds of today's AI advancements were sown by government organizations like the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). Yet, ironically, bureaucratic hurdles often prevented these innovations from being fully realized within the Department of Defense itself. Instead, these nascent technologies found fertile ground in the commercial sector—particularly the travel industry—where they have since flourished. This dichotomy sets the stage

The keynote delved into the current and future impacts of AI on the travel industry, emphasizing advancements in computing power and AI technologies like facial recognition and automated concierge services. These innovations are streamlining processes, enhancing security, and personalizing the travel experience, marking the onset of what Dr. Bagherpour terms the "fourth Industrial Revolution." However, the journey doesn't end here. The advent of generative AI, which automates cognitive processes, promises to further humanize customer assistance processes and revolutionize predictive capabilities, reshaping the travel industry landscape.

Navigating the AI Terrain: Opportunities and Challenges As the defense and government sectors look to integrate AI into their travel operations, Dr. Bagherpour outlined both the immense potential and the pitfalls of AI deployment. The benefits of AI in automating booking, enhancing communication, and improving data-driven decision-making are clear. Yet, the path to AI integration is fraught with challenges, including ensuring privacy, avoiding bias and discrimination, and addressing job displacement concerns. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of establishing ethical and legal frameworks to govern AI use, as underscored by recent executive orders and legislative efforts.

The Future of Government Travel with AI Looking ahead, Dr. Bagherpour painted a picture of a future where AI not only enhances the efficiency and personalization of government travel but also serves as a critical tool in ensuring national security. The ability of AI to process and analyze vast amounts of data in real-time can revolutionize logistics, forecasting, and threat detection. However, this future also demands a careful balance between leveraging AI's capabilities and safeguarding against its potential risks, requiring a concerted effort from both government and industry to navigate the evolving AI landscape responsibly.

Conclusion: A Call to Action Dr. Amir Bagherpour's insights serve as a clarion call to the defense and government sectors to embrace AI's transformative potential while being mindful of its ethical, legal, and social implications. As we stand on the cusp of a new era in travel, the journey ahead is one of collaboration, innovation, and vigilance. By harnessing the power of AI, the government and defense travel sectors can not only enhance operational efficiency and security, but also ensure that the benefits of this technological revolution are realized in a manner that is equitable, ethical, and in the best interest of all citizens.

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www.ndtahq.com | 21

Sustainability in Transportation – Getting There More Efficiently

T

he 2024 GovTravels symposium highlighted a pivotal shift towards sustainability in transportation.

Amidst a backdrop of evolving travel norms and the pressing urgency of climate change, a panel of distinguished speakers from both government and private sectors delved into strategies for a cleaner, more efficient future in transportation. Katy Newhouse, Director of Sustainable Operations, Supply Chain for the White House Council on Environmental Quality, moderated. Panel members included Leigh Method, SES, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Logistics (DASD(Log)), Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment; Kevin Welsh, Vice President Environmental Affairs and Chief Sustainability Officer at Airlines for America; Nancy Prowda, Senior Director, ESG Engagement, at Hilton; and Page Motes, Vice President of Sustainment and Impact Initiatives at The Hertz Corporation. Their conversation offered a comprehensive outlook on reducing CO2 emissions, enhancing transportation infrastructure, and fostering innovations for more efficient passenger transportation.

Government and Industry: A Symbiotic Path to Efficiency Method highlighted the DOD’s comprehensive approach to sustainability, em22 | Defense Transportation Journal | APRIL 2024

phasizing the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and the integration of renewable energy sources. The DOD's strategy encompasses not just the adoption of green technologies but also a broad evaluation of logistics and supply chain operations to ensure energy efficiency at every step.

From the aviation sector perpsective, Welsh outlined Airlines for America's commitment to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as a cornerstone of their strategy to reduce carbon emissions. The industry's push towards SAF, backed by collaborative efforts with the government and private sector, underscores a collective resolve to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

Hospitality and Car Rental: Pioneering Sustainable Choices Prowda presented Hilton's ambitious goals for reducing its carbon footprint through energy-efficient practices and sustainable operations. The hotel chain's initiative to provide guests with transparent reporting on the carbon footprint of their stays reflects a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and customer engagement in sustainability efforts.

Similarly, Motes discussed Hertz Corporation's strides towards electrification of its vehicle fleet and the development of sustainability and impact initiatives.

Hertz's focus on public-private partnerships for electrification and education

on EV usage highlights the critical role of collaboration in advancing sustainable transportation solutions.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities The panel underscored the need for concerted efforts across sectors to overcome barriers to sustainability. Key challenges include the scalability of green technologies, the integration of sustainable practices into existing infrastructure, and the imperative to balance operational efficiency with environmental responsibility.

A Collective Journey Towards a Greener Future The 2024 GovTravels Symposium served as a clarion call for a unified approach to sustainability in transportation. By sharing insights, challenges, and strategies, the panelists illustrated the potential for transformative change through collaboration between government, industry, and the broader community. As the journey towards a sustainable transportation future unfolds, the insights shared at the symposium pave the way for innovative solutions and enduring partnerships, underscoring the critical role of sustainability in shaping the future of government and military travel.

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Cont’d from Travel Trends pg. 18 at streamlining security processes while ensuring the integrity of traveler identities.

For defense professionals, this means enhanced security measures that are less intrusive and time-consuming, allowing for a focus on mission-critical tasks.

The Role of Global Distribution Systems (GDS) Kershaw highlighted the challenges and opportunities in integrating vast amounts of travel data to improve service delivery.

The GDS industry is working towards better standardization and simplification to make travel more accessible and comprehensible. For the defense sector, this translates to more efficient travel arrangements

and the ability to make informed decisions quickly, which is crucial in times of crisis or rapid deployment.

Looking Forward The discussion underscored the industry’s collective effort towards a future where travel is safer, more efficient, and sustainable. Innovations in autonomous vehicles, digital transformation in car rental services, advancements in air travel, enhanced security through digital identity, and the integration of global distribution systems are all converging to redefine the landscape of defense travel.

For defense transportation professionals, these advancements promise a future where travel logistics are less of a burden and more of a strategic asset. As we navi-

gate this new era, the collaboration between government and industry will be pivotal in harnessing these innovations to support defense objectives and ensure the safety and efficiency of defense personnel on the move.

The Travel Trends and Innovations panel provided valuable insights into the evolving world of defense travel. The convergence of technology, security, and sustainability sets the stage for a transformative era in defense logistics and mobility. As these trends continue to develop, defense transportation professionals must stay informed and adaptable, ready to leverage these innovations to enhance mission effectiveness and operational readiness.

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NDTA Corporate Distinguished Service Award Winners

Congratulations to the travel industry 2023 NDTA Corporate Distinguished Service Award winners: Choice Hotels International, CWTSatoTravel, Drury Hotels Company, Enterprise Mobility, Omega World Travel, Sabre, SAP Concur, SIXT Rent a Car, Southwest Airlines, Travelport, United Airlines, and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. This award is presented annually to corporate members that have provided outstanding service in support of the Association’s goals and programs at the local and national levels.

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www.ndtahq.com | 23

Your strategic partner for government and military success.

24 | Defense Transportation Journal | APRIL 2024

Thank You

Sponsors PLATINUM SPONSORS

GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS

BRONZE SPONSORS

Hilton Garden Inn Arlington/Shirlington • Synergy Global Housing

GovTravels will be back at the Hilton Alexandria Mark Center, February 24-26, 2025! Stay tuned to NDTAHQ.com for details.

www.ndtahq.com | 25

The NDTA Exposition was larger than ever this year. Held in

conjunction with the GovTravels

Symposium, the Expo is always a highlight of the week, providing an invaluable opportunity

for attendees to share ideas,

network, and learn about new products and services. The

packed Expo floor was bustling

throughout the event and proved

to be a truly rewarding experience for all.

26 | Defense Transportation Journal | APRIL 2024

www.ndtahq.com | 27

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE

These corporations are a distinctive group of NDTA Members who, through their generous support of the Association, have dedicated themselves to supporting an expansion of NDTA programs to benefit our members and defense transportation preparedness.

AAR AAT Carriers, a Covenant Logistics Company Accenture Federal Services Agility Defense & Government Services Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) AIT Worldwide Logistics, Inc. Alamo City Engineering Services Inc. Amazon American President Lines, LLC American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings Bennett Family of Companies C5MI Carlile Transportation Systems, LLC Chapman Freeborn International Ltd. Corporate Travel Management (CTM) Crowley Deloitte DHL Express Enterprise Mobility Federated Maritime, LLC FedEx Freeman Holdings Group Hapag-Lloyd USA, LLC

HomeSafe Alliance International Auto Logistics, LLC JET Infrastructure Kalitta Air, LLC Landstar System, Inc. Leidos Liberty Global Logistics LLC Maersk Line, Limited Matson Naniq Government Services, LLC National Air Cargo, Inc. Omni Air International, LLC Patriot Maritime SAP Schuyler Line Navigation Company LLC Sealift, Inc. Sixt Rent a Car LLC Southwest Airlines The Pasha Group TOTE Group Tri-State Motor Transit Co. United Airlines US Ocean, LLC Waterman Logistics

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE AEG Fuels Air Charter Service American Maritime Partnership Amerijet International, Inc. Berry Aviation, Inc. BNSF Railway Boeing Company Bristol Associates Choice Hotels International CSX Transportation 28 | Defense Transportation Journal | APRIL 2024

CWTSatoTravel Echo Global Logistics, Inc. Ernst & Young Global Logistics Providers ICAT Logistics KGL National Air Carrier Association Norfolk Southern Corporation Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. PayCargo LLC

SAP Concur Sikich LLP The Port of Virginia Transportation Institute U.S. Bank Union Pacific Railroad US Marine Management Western Global Airlines Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc.

HONOR ROLL SUSTAINING MEMBERS REGIONAL PATRONS OF

AND

ALL OF THESE FIRMS SUPPORT THE PURPOSES AND OBJECTIVES OF NDTA

SUSTAINING MEMBERS 3Sixty Able Freight Admiral Merchants Motor Freight, Inc. ALARA Logistics All Aboard America Holdings American Bureau of Shipping American Maritime Officers American Trucking Associations Apex Logistics International Inc. ArcBest Army & Air Force Exchange Service Arven Services, LLC ATS Secure Avis Budget Group Baggett Transportation Company Beltway Transportation Service Benchmarking Partners, Inc. Boyle Transportation Bridgeway Connects, Inc. BWH Hotels C5T Corporation CGI Federal Coleman Worldwide Moving Construction Helicopters, Inc. (d/b/a CHI Aviation) Cornerstone Systems, Inc. Council for Logistics Research CPKC Cypress International, Inc. Dash Point Distributing, LLC Delta Air Lines Drury Hotels Company, LLC Duluth Travel, Inc. (DTI) Estes Forwarding Worldwide Everts Air Cargo Eyre Bus Service, Inc. Gallantry Global Logistics GeoDecisions Global Secure Shipping Green Valley Transportation Corp.

Groundswell Hilton Worldwide REGIONAL PATRONS ACME Truck Line, Inc. Amyx CakeBoxx Technologies, LLC Cartwright International Dalko Resources, Inc. Delaware River Stevedores, Inc. Enterprise Management Systems

Holland & Knight Hyatt Hotels IHG Army Hotels Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) International Association of Movers International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) Interstate Moving | Relocation | Logistics Isaac Instruments J.B. Hunt Transport, Inc. Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) Juvare Federal & Defense K&L Trailer Sales and Leasing Keystone Shipping Co. LMI LMJ International Logistics, LLC Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association Mayflower Transit McCollister’s Global Services, Inc. Mercer Transportation Company mLINQS National Industries for the Blind (NIB) National Van Lines, Inc. Nika Corporate Housing Northern Air Cargo, LLC Omega World Travel One Network Enterprises, Inc. ORBCOMM Paxton Van Lines Perfect Logistics, LLC Pilot Freight Services, a Maersk Company Plateau GRP PODS Enterprises LLC Port of Beaumont Port of Corpus Christi Authority Port of San Diego Preferred Corporate Housing Prestera Trucking, Inc. Priority Worldwide Procharter Prosponsive Logistics PTS Worldwide Radiant Global Logistics

Gridiron Forwarding Co., Inc. HLI Government Services JAS Forwarding John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences Kalitta Charters, LLC Lineage Lynden, Inc.

Ramar Transportation, Inc. Rampart Aviation Red Roof Inn ReloQuest Sabre SAIC Savi SeaCube Containers Seafarers International Union of NA, AGLIW SEKO Government, Space and Defense Selsi International Inc Signature Transportation Group Sonesta International Hotels Corporation SSA Marine St. Louis Union Station Hotel a Curio Hotel Collection by Hilton StarForce National Corporation Steam Logistics, LLC Stevens Global Logistics, Inc. Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP The Flight Lab Aviation Consulting LLC The Hertz Corporation The MITRE Corporation The Suddath Companies Thinklogical TLR - Total Logistics Resource, Inc. TMM, Inc. Toll Group Trailer Bridge Transportation Intermediaries Assn. (TIA) Travelport Triangle Bus Charters Inc TTX Company Tucker Company Worldwide, Inc. Uber for Business UNCOMN United Van Lines, Inc. UPS US1 Logistics Wertz Motor Coaches Women In Trucking Association, Inc. World Kinect Xwing

Move One NorSea Denmark A/S North Carolina State Ports Authority Overdrive Logistics, Inc. PITT OHIO Port Canaveral Port of Port Arthur Trans Global Logistics Europe GmbH

UNIVERSITIES Christopher Newport University

www.ndtahq.com www.ndtahq.com| | 29

PROUD TO SERVE THOSE

WHO SERVE

®

At Enterprise, our commitment to the military has been around from the very beginning. It started with the values our founder, Jack Taylor, learned in the Navy while serving on the USS Enterprise during World War II and continues to this day.

From the convenience of renting directly on a US military base to our low-touch transactions, we’re ready whenever service members are.

Learn more at enterprise.com/military

Enterprise Founder Jack Taylor (back row, far right) and fellow Navy pilots during WWII

Cont’d from President’s Corner pg. 7 ing it to shore when port access is lacking.

NDTA salutes the efforts of Joint Force to provide this capability—safely and effectively.

One of the key topics facing the US is the strategic deployment of forces in hostile or contested environments. The ability to move troops and equipment rapidly and effectively is crucial through these environments as seen in the challenges we face in the Red Sea and Strait of Bab el Mandeb. The logistical challenges of maintaining supply lines and ensuring timely delivery of critical supplies not only applies to our military, but to the World’s economy. As this issue goes to print, USTRANSCOM, MSC, MARAD, USCENTCOM, and industry continue to work together on this delicate contested strategic chokepoint.

Central to this discussion is the role of strategic seaports, which serve as crucial

30 | Defense Transportation Journal | APRIL 2024

©2023 Enterprise Rent-A-Car. The ”e“ logo and Enterprise are registered trademarks of Enterprise Holdings, Inc. L00771

hubs for the movement of military assets.

These ports play a vital role in facilitating the rapid deployment of forces, serving as entry points for troops and equipment into operational theaters. These important “deployment platforms” also present unique challenges, including security, infrastructure, and workforce issues. Our ports are the connection to the sea lanes and inland to our forts and national supply routes. I look forward to our upcoming Surface Force Projection Conference in mid-May, which will dive deeply into ports and movement of equipment and troops.

Thank you to all of our NDTA Committee Chairs and Chapter Presidents for their insightful leadership in bringing together military/government leaders and industry together. I am encouraged by the cooperative environment NDTA provides for frank and open discussions. Let’s keep the communications going! DTJ

DTJ INDEX OF ADVERTISERS American Express Global Business Travel..................3 American President Lines, LLC...................................2 American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC)................. 31 Corporate Travel Management (CTM)..................... 8-9 Crowley Logistics, Inc............................................... 18 Enterprise................................................................. 30 FedEx Government Services.................................... 32 Landstar Transportation Logistics, Inc.......................4 United Air Lines........................................................ 24

U.S.-flag shipping and logistics solutions from America’s leading Ro-Ro carrier

For more information, visit ARCshipping.com or call 904-605-3420 www.ndtahq.com | 31

The road to success may be different for everyone.

At FedEx, we understand what it takes to deliver when it counts.

We salute those with the drive to never stop pushing forward.

32 | Defense Transportation Journal | APRIL 2024

©2021 FedEx. All rights reserved.