scope:

Logistics operations conducted over the shore fall into two general categories:

a. A logistic operation usually conducted in support of the assault echelon (AE) or assault follow-on echelon (AFOE) phase of an amphibious operation in a hostile, or potentially hostile, environment. Such a logistic operation, conducted by the Navy in coordination with USMC, is identified by the acronym ALS (amphibious logistic system).

b. A logistic operation conducted in friendly territory or in a nonhostile environment, when it is anticipated that there will be no opposition from enemy forces other than covert operations by small teams or irregular forces. Such a logistic operation, normally conducted by the Army or by the Army supported/in coordination with other Services, is identified as logistics over the shore (LOTS) or joint LOTS operation. This LOTS or joint LOTS operation may be conducted as part of the base, garrison, or theater development operation which immediately follows an amphibious or joint amphibious operation.

(1) LOTS operations are conducted over unimproved shorelines, through fixed ports partially destroyed by combat action, through shallow draft ports not accessible to deep-draft shipping, and through fixed ports that are inadequate without utilizing LOTS capabilities. The type of LOTS operation selected will depend on geographical, tactical, and time considerations.

(2) LOTS operations consist of loading and unloading breakbulk; roll-on/roll-off; container; and bulk POL and water cargo from ships in the theater of operations. LOTS operations include shoreside operations, stevedoring, and water and POL hoseline operations. They also include the operation of ships, watercraft, and lighterage in the loading and unloading area.