January  |  MOBIDIC (Mobile Digital Computer)

Automated logistics is a crucial Quartermaster mission in the modern Army, but many might not know about some of the technology that helped pave the way for today’s systems. The museum has two models that show one of the Mobile Digital Computer (MOBIDIC) fielded by the Army in the 1960s. Originally designed for communications use in the field, the Army quickly realized the potential for MOBIDIC’s use for logistics and supply.

The main computer system was installed onto a 30-foot Army trailer, with three supporting trailers for power generation, spare parts, and repair. The Army never widely fielded this project, but several were put into use, including the MOBIDIC 7A, which the 7th Army Stock Control Center operated in Germany starting in 1962. The computer proved its merit, drastically shortening requisition times from days to hours, as well as saving manpower.

While ultimately a short-lived project, the MOBIDIC system helped illustrate the value in utilizing new technology to provide soldiers with needed equipment as fast as possible. Later computers continued to build on the lessons learned from MOBIDIC.

For more in-depth information with original footage, see this YouTube video