Nachschub

Nachschub is a German term used in military and civilian logistics to describe the replenishment of materials and supplies from support organs to end users—typically front-line units, installations, or retail outlets.

Literally, nachschub derives from nach "after, following" and Schub "pull" or "thrust," reflecting the flow of resources from support to demand points.

In a military context, Nachschub covers the entire supply chain: forecasting needs, procurement, transport (rail, road, air, sea), storage, and on-site distribution of ammunition, fuel, food, spare parts, medical supplies, and equipment necessary for operations.

In civilian logistics, the term is used to denote replenishment of inventory and resupply to stores, warehouses, or distribution centers, encompassing replenishment planning, procurement, and transport to maintain stock levels.

Effective Nachschub requires coordination among suppliers, transporters, and demand points; delays or failures can constrain operations or production.

Historically, the concept has been central to military campaigns and large-scale logistics operations, from 19th-century armies to modern theaters where supply lines extend across continents.

See also: Logistics, Supply chain management, Replenishment, Provisioning.