Logistics in the Vietnam Wars, 1945-1975

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Reveals that basic traditional techniques proved superior to expensive state of the art systems.

During the Indochina or 'French' war, France's initial use of wheeled transport and finally air supply proved vulnerable given the terrain, climate, and Communist adaptability. The colonial power gave up the unequal struggle after the catastrophic defeat at Dien Bien Phu.

To stem the advance of Communism throughout the region, the Americans stepped in to support the pro-Western South Vietnam regime and threw vast quantities of manpower and money at the problem. The cost became increasingly unpopular at home. General Giap's and Ho Chi Minh's ruthless use of coolies, most famously on the Ho Chi Minh Trail, proved resistant to carpet-bombing and Agent Orange defoliation.

The outcome of the final war between the Communist North Vietnam and the corrupt Southern leadership, now with minimal US support, was almost a forgone conclusion.