Invicta

[Preview] Roman Logistics Overview

Added 2018-06-27 05:57:24 +0000 UTC

I've been working on a follow up video for our recent episode on how Roman soldiers ate. For context I figured we would do a quick overview of the logistics of the Roman army. One of the main points I discuss is the supply line. This can be broken down in to several levels.

The strategic base is basically the area outside of the campaign theater which generates the supplies going to the army. Generally one or more provinces would be assigned to a particular army or campaign. These goods would typically travel across the sea.

The operational base was located in the theater of operations and linked the incoming water-based supply lines with those on land, effectively serving as the logistical anchor. It was generally a well fortified port which could stockpile many goods.

The tactical base was located with or near the army. It served as the final end of the supply line and would advance with the legions. Old tactical bases could be turned in to supply depots. These would be garrisoned to help provide shelter for the supply convoys as they made their way to the army.

Stay tuned for the full video soon : )