Like other enablers, logistics lays the groundwork for, and often determines, what may be possible to accomplish. With inefficient supply, there is the risk that logistical needs exceed available resources, causing limitations, as a result reaching logistical culmination. However, can logistical culmination be avoided by pursuing specific factors or principles of logistics?
The purpose of this study is to investigate if logistical principles can explain the occurrence of logistical culmination through a case study of Germany's campaign in North Africa during World War II. The results of the study show that Kress's logistical principles, together with the context of the case, can demonstrate why logistical culmination occurred. The study also highlights the importance of including logistics in the planning and execution of military operations.