In the fast-evolving landscape of defence logistics, a new study offers a roadmap for balancing efficiency, security, and adaptability in buyer-supplier relationships. The paper, “A Balancing Act: Towards a Conceptual Framework for the Governance of Buyer-Supplier Relationships in Defence Supply Chains,” published in the Scandinavian Journal of Military Studies, sheds light on the challenges and opportunities in managing critical supply chains during geopolitical instability.
Led by Olger Pedersen at the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment and Lund University, the research underscores the urgent need for a more nuanced approach to supply chain governance in defence. The study highlights the lack of existing literature on the role of commercial suppliers in defence logistics, despite their pivotal function in maintaining readiness. Pedersen and his team conducted a systematic review of current research, revealing that the governance of these relationships must adapt to shifting security threats—requiring a blend of contractual and relational strategies.
“The security crisis spectrum is a key factor influencing governance mechanisms,” Pedersen explains. “Defence supply chains must balance formal agreements with flexible, collaborative relationships to accommodate rapid changes in demand and operational requirements.”
A standout contribution of the study is its proposal for a new governance framework, which moves beyond the traditional binary view of peacetime and wartime logistics. Instead, it introduces a “preparedness phase” to proactively address potential disruptions, ensuring smoother transitions between different operational states.
The findings have significant implications for defence practitioners and suppliers alike. By refining governance mechanisms and addressing regulatory barriers, the report suggests that organisations can enhance their collective response to crises and strengthen societal resilience.
As geopolitical tensions persist, the study’s recommendations could shape future defence supply chain strategies, ensuring that critical systems remain resilient and adaptable. The research not only fills a critical knowledge gap but also sets the stage for further exploration into governance models for wartime logistics and the impact of regulatory frameworks.
For defence leaders and industry stakeholders, Pedersen’s work serves as a call to action—urging greater collaboration and innovation to meet the demands of an uncertain global landscape.