Direct support

"Direct Support" is not the name of a specific military unit but rather a term used to describe a type of support provided by military units, particularly in logistics, maintenance, and operational roles. The concept of direct support emerged prominently during World War II, when increasingly complex military operations required dedicated units to provide immediate assistance to combat forces, such as maintenance battalions repairing tanks and vehicles close to the front lines. In the U.S. Army, for example, units designated as "Direct Support" (DS) provide tailored support to specific maneuver units, ensuring rapid response to operational needs. Over time, the direct support structure has evolved with modern military doctrine, emphasizing flexibility and integration with supported units to enhance combat effectiveness.