The Pacific Problem: Distance, Deterrence, and Logistics at Scale

In this episode of The Logistics Lens, Kevin Sampels sits down with Brigadier General Michael Zuhlsdorf, Director of Logistics, Engineering, and Force Protection for Pacific Air Forces (PACAF A4). From his beginnings as an enlisted Airman to shaping strategy inside the Pentagon and now executing it across the Indo-Pacific, Zuhlsdorf offers a rare end-to-end perspective on military logistics.The conversation explores the immense scale and complexity of the Pacific theater—covering over half the globe—and the challenges of operating across vast distances, aging infrastructure, and contested environments. Zuhlsdorf outlines his four core priorities: setting and sustaining the theater, strengthening allies and partners, executing logistics under attack, and preparing Airmen for high-end conflict.He also dives into emerging innovations like AI-enabled logistics, autonomous delivery systems, and regional sustainment frameworks that keep combat power forward. The episode highlights how logistics is not just support—but a key pillar of deterrence in today’s strategic environment.👉 Catch up on more episodes here: www.youtube.com/@The-Logistics-Lens#Strategy #Logistics #USArmy #Commerce #War