In some of the world’s most complex and fragile environments, the United Nations relies on agile, resilient supply chains to deliver critical support. At the heart of this effort is the Office of Supply Chain Management (OSCM), which provides end-to-end logistics solutions for peacekeeping missions and other UN entities across the globe.
From digital platforms that streamline procurement to aerial systems that enhance situational awareness, OSCM is transforming how the UN operates. These innovations are more than logistical upgrades—they are tools that help save lives, protect communities, and ensure the UN can respond swiftly and effectively to global challenges.
Innovation at the Core
OSCM’s work spans continents and contexts, supporting peacekeeping missions in volatile regions while also serving the broader UN system. This dual role demands constant innovation to meet diverse operational needs under pressure.
Whether deploying unmanned aircraft systems for surveillance and reconnaissance or sourcing body armor tailored for female peacekeepers, OSCM continuously adapts its strategies. Innovation is not an add-on—it’s embedded in every aspect of the supply chain, ensuring the UN remains responsive, efficient, and mission-ready.
Here are some of the creative solutions reshaping the future of UN supply chains.
Digital Management Systems
- Electronic Rations Management System
Managing food rations for peacekeepers is a massive logistical undertaking—one that OSCM has revolutionized with the electronic Rations Management System (eRMS). Launched in 2015, eRMS digitizes the entire rations supply chain, from menu planning and order placement to delivery tracking, invoicing, and performance monitoring.
With about 230,000 meals served daily, eRMS ensures consistency, transparency, and efficiency across missions. The system’s recent enhancements include a fully automated quality management module, further streamlining operations. Currently deployed in all peacekeeping missions, eRMS continues to expand, setting a new standard for food logistics in peacekeeping.
- Vehicle Acquisition System
In 2023, OSCM unveiled a major upgrade to its Vehicle Acquisition System (VAS), transforming it into a centralized, digital platform for fleet procurement. Originally designed for peacekeeping, the new VAS is positioned to serve the entire UN system, offering a user-friendly catalogue interface for selecting and ordering vehicles.
Key innovations include real-time workflow automation, integration with other UN catalogues, and a vendor portal for up-to-date procurement opportunities. With advanced analytics and global accessibility, VAS empowers UN entities to make informed, efficient, and environmentally conscious fleet decisions.
- Electronic Fuel Management System
The introduction of the Electronic Fuel Management System (EFMS2) in 2013 marked a significant transformation from manual fuel data collection and accounting practices. This digital system now supports all UN missions, capturing data from over 700,000 fuel transactions annually. EFMS2 enhances transparency, control, and monitoring of fuel resources, ensuring efficient and accountable usage.
Recent upgrades to EFMS2 have further improved data input controls and introduced 33 tailored management and operational reports. These reports cover stock levels, consumption patterns, and fuel fraud alerts, providing comprehensive insights and strengthening the UN’s ability to manage its fuel resources effectively.
Technology in the Air
- Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) are transforming how the UN assesses and responds to complex environments. These systems provide real-time aerial imagery and data, enabling teams to monitor road conditions, assess damage from natural disasters like floods or fires, and enhance situational awareness in areas that are difficult to access by ground.
OSCM sources a wide range of UAS tailored to specific mission needs and ensures their safe and effective use through robust training, regulatory oversight, and strategic partnerships. By integrating UAS into field operations, the UN strengthens its ability to make informed, timely decisions that protect lives and support humanitarian efforts.
- On-Call Aviation Contracts
In regions where roads are impassable or time is of the essence, air transport becomes a lifeline. OSCM’s on-call aviation contracts ensure that aircraft and crews can be deployed within 24 to 72 hours to crisis zones, disaster areas, or logistical bottlenecks. These multiple, pre-negotiated agreements ensure availability, fixed pricing, and standardized operational terms—enabling swift, reliable air support when it matters most.
This flexible model allows the UN to avoid the high costs of maintaining a permanent fleet while still ensuring rapid deployment capabilities. From delivering emergency supplies in Somalia’s 2024 floods to supporting peacekeeping operations in South Sudan and the DRC, on-call aviation contracts are a cornerstone of the UN’s global logistics strategy.
Gender Inclusion
- Designing for All
OSCM is committed to advancing gender equality across the UN supply chain. This includes increasing the participation of women-owned businesses in competitive procurement processes, promoting gender parity in field operations, and ensuring that contractors uphold these values as well.
A standout example is the sourcing of body armor specifically designed for female peacekeepers. Traditional armor, often built for male physiques, can be uncomfortable or even unsafe for women. OSCM has addressed this by sourcing gear with tailored fits—featuring curved panels and improved mobility—ensuring that all personnel are equally protected and empowered in the field.
- The Elsie Initiative
Now in its sixth year, the Elsie Initiative for Field Missions, funded by the Government of Canada, is another key effort to support the meaningful participation of uniformed women in UN peace operations. The initiative focuses on creating gender-sensitive infrastructure, accommodations, and logistics that enhance the safety, well-being, and working conditions of uniformed women.
Through gender-sensitive assessments, technical support for engineering designs, and the refurbishment of accommodations, the project aims to create more inclusive and supportive environments. The initiative also promotes the integration of gender-sensitive standards into broader logistics strategies. While designed to support women, these improvements benefit all personnel and contribute to more effective and equitable peace operations.
Reducing Our Environmental Footprint
Peacekeeping missions often operate in remote areas where energy supply is both costly and carbon-intensive. To address this, OSCM is leading the charge toward sustainability by promoting cleaner fuels, reducing waste, and investing in renewable energy solutions.
- Promoting Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel
One key initiative is the promotion of ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD), which significantly reduces harmful emissions. In addition, OSCM has implemented strict fuel standards and provided training to missions on the responsible use of fuel and minimizing the use of oil and lubricants through longer-lasting, high-efficiency products. These efforts are continuing to make a measurable impact on the UN’s environmental performance.
- Turnkey Renewable Energy
To contribute to meeting the UN’s goal of sourcing most of its energy from renewables by 2030, OSCM has launched the Turnkey Renewable Energy Project—a comprehensive solution that includes design, installation, and maintenance of clean energy systems. This initiative supports peacekeeping missions in transitioning to solar, hybrid, and locally sourced power, even in the most remote locations.
With vendors based in China, Denmark, India, and Kenya, the project ensures global reach and regional responsiveness. Since the launch of the UN’s Environment Strategy in 2017, renewable energy use in missions has increased by 10 per cent. With continued investment, the turnkey project could boost this share significantly over the next five years—reducing emissions, lowering costs, and leaving a lasting positive legacy for host communities.
OSCM is an office of the United Nation’s Department of Operational Support.