Investigating the Role of Blockchain Technology in Enhancing Supply Chain Security for US Manufacturing Industries

The increasing sophistication of supply chain threats, coupled with the 
proliferation of counterfeit components and the vulnerabilities inherent in legacy 
information systems, presents a critical challenge for US manufacturing industries. 
This study investigates the role of blockchain technology in enhancing supply 
chain security by conducting a systematic literature review of 57 peer-reviewed 
studies, government reports, and industry case analyses published between 2018 
and 2025. Six dominant themes are identified: traceability and transparency, fraud 
and counterfeit prevention, smart contract automation, regulatory compliance, 
interoperability challenges, and scalability barriers. The study proposes a Unified 
Blockchain Security Framework (UBSF) comprising four interdependent layers 
Governance and Policy, Technology Integration, Risk Assessment and Monitoring, 
and Supply Chain Security Outcomes supported by a continuous improvement 
loop. Case study evidence from Walmart, Lockheed Martin, Ford Motor Company, 
and the US Department of Defense illustrates the practical applicability of 
blockchain for manufacturing supply chain security. Findings indicate that while 
blockchain offers significant security enhancements, adoption barriers including 
implementation costs, workforce skill gaps, and regulatory uncertainty remain 
prevalent. The UBSF provides standardized guidance for manufacturers, 
regulators, and supply chain stakeholders seeking to leverage blockchain 
technology safely and effectively.