2009

Concepts & Programs

U.S. Marine Corp s

includes the marine corps almanac
Concepts & Programs

U.S. Marine Corp s

2009
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

II

We offer this 2009 edition of Concepts 

and Programs as a current picture of the 

state of the Marine Corps. It reviews our 

current exercises and deployments and describes how we fight — our operating concepts and the organization of our forces. It contains our vision of the future and 

the strategic direction of the Marine Corps. It reflects current 

information on our programs of record and our major end item 

equipment. Finally, it includes our annual almanac, which contains a digest of facts and figures on our personnel and budget.

We pride ourselves on being good stewards of the resources 

provided by Congress. That starts with taking care of Marines 

and their families — our number one priority. We offer the Nation’s sons and daughters the opportunity to serve a cause greater than themselves. In the crucible of war, their performance has 

been magnificent. They have added new pages to the illustrious 

battle history of our Corps.

Innovation and fiscal responsibility are hallmarks of the 

Corps. In our ground and aviation programs, we continue to 

test, develop, and pursue the procurement of dual-use equipment. We look for new ways to employ emerging technology.

A Message from the Commandant 

of the Marine Corps
III

foreword

Our recent publication of Marine Corps Vision and Strategy 2025 describes a 

balanced, multicapable expeditionary force. To Marines, expeditionary means fast, 

austere, and lethal — with an emphasis on austere. We must be able to get out 

the door fast, deploy where there is no infrastructure, and operate with lethality. 

Our statutory responsibility is to be an air-ground force in readiness, capable of 

operating across the full range of military operations. 

Change is one thing that is certain about the future. Populations and demographics in the world will shift, and peer competitors to the United States may rise. 

Threats to our way of life will remain. Our enemies will adapt their tactics and techniques. However, we enthusiastically accept the challenge of eternal vigilance — in 

defense of this great Nation.

 Semper Fidelis,

 James T. Conway

 General, U.S. Marine Corps
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A Message from the Commandant of the Marine Corps . . . . . . . . . ii

CHAPTER 1: The USMC: America’s Expeditionary Fighting Force in Readiness . . . . 1

CHAPTER 2: Concepts and Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

CHAPTER 3: Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

Part 1: The Individual Marine.........................................64

Marine Expeditionary Rifle Squad (MERS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Marine Enhancement Program (MEP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Infantry Automatic Rifle (IAR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

Modular Weapon System (MWS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Image Intensifier Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

Laser Targeting and Illumination Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

Part 2: Command & Control (C2) / Intelligence, Surveillance,

and Reconnaissance (ISR) ..........................................74

Distributed Common Ground System-Marine Corps (DCGS-MC) . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Marine Corps Intelligence, Surveillance and 

Reconnaisance Enterprise (MCISR-E) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Concepts & Programs

2009 U.S. Marine Corp s
V

table of c ontents

Aviation Command and Control.......................................79

Common Aviation Command and Control System (CAC2S).................81

AN/TPS-59(V)3 Radar System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Composite Tracking Network (CTN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar (G/ATOR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Assault Amphibious Vehicle-Command; Command and Control

Upgrade Program (AAVC7A1 C2 Upgrade) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

Intelligence Analysis System Family of Systems (IAS FoS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System, Common

Ground Station (JSTARS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

Marine Air-Ground Task Force Secondary Imagery 

Dissemination System (MSIDS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Tactical Data Network (TDN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Tactical Exploitation Group (TEG) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Marine Corps Enterprise Network (MCEN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94

Global Command and Control Systems-Integrated 

Imagery and Intelligence (GCCS-13

) Initiative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Counterintelligence and Human Intelligence 

Equipment Program (CIHEP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Expeditionary Intelligence Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Part 3: Ground Mobility and Fire Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Marine Personnel Carrier (MPC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle (MRAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Internally Transportable Vehicle (ITV) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement (MTVR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Lightweight 155mm Howitzer (LW155) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Expeditionary Fire Support System (EFSS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
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Part 4: Aviation Support............................................112

Aviation Combat Element (ACE) Legacy Aircraft Modernization.............114

Aviation Ground Support (AGS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Theater Battle Management Core System (TBMCS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

F-35B Lightening II Short Take-Off Vertical Landing (STOVL)

Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Transition Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

MV-22 Osprey Program............................................125

H-1 Upgrade (UH-1Y Huey/AH-1Z Cobra) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

KC-130 Hercules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

CH-53K Heavy Lift Helicopter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

Operational Support Airlift (OSA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

Marine Aviation Logistics Transformation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Naval Aviation Enterprise (NAE) FY 2009 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

Part 5: Logistics Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Electronic Acquisition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

Logistics Command (LOGCOM) Forward . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

Logistics Modernization (Log Mod) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

Global Combat Support System-Marine Corps (GCSS-MC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

Marine Corps Small Business Program................................145

Naval Logistics Integration (NLI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

Sense and Respond Logistics (S&RL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Autonomic Logistics (AL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

Family of Material Handling Equipment (MHE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

Logistics Vehicle System Replacement (LVSR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

Marine Corps Business Enterprise Initiatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151

Feeding Marines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152

Marine Corps Bases and Installations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

Part 6: Maritime Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154

Amphibious Warships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156

Amphibious Assault Ship Replacement (LHA(R)) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
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table of c ontents

San Antonio-Class Amphibious Transport Dock Ship (LPD 17) . . . . . . . . . . . . 158

Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC)/Ship to Shore Connector (SSC) . . . . . . . . . 159

Joint High-Speed Vessel (JHSV).....................................160

Maritime Prepositioning Force (Future) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

Naval Surface Fire Support Initiatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164

Part 7: Supporting Establishment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

Manpower Recruiting..............................................168

Marine Corps Recruiting Information Support System-Recruiting 

Sub-Station (MCRISS-RSS) & Officer Selection System (MCRISS-OSS) . . . . 171

Manpower Personnel and Pay Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172

Marine Corps Retention............................................173

Marine Corps Reserve.............................................175

Civilian Marines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176

Combined-Arms Command and Control Training Upgrade System (CACCTUS) . . . 179

Deployable Virtual Training Environment (DVTE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180

Distance Learning (DL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 181

Homestation Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) Training Systems . . 182

Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group (MCTOG) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183

Reconstituting the Force . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184

Mission-Capable Training Ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187

Predeployment Training Program (PTP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188

Facilities Management.............................................190

Barracks Initiative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191

Military Construction Supporting Grow the Force . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192

Range Modernization/Transformation (RM/T) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193

Encroachment Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195

Installation Energy Conservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196

Garrison Mobile Equipment (GME) Fleet Management System (FMS) . . . . . . 197

Quality of Life (QOL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198

Taking Care of Marines and Families . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199

Wounded Warrior Regiment (WWR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201

Marine For Life (M4L) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
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Part 8: Other Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204

Force Protection Capability Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206

Green Beam Designator-III Custom (GBD-IIIC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207

Joint Materiel Decontamination Systems (JMDS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208

Non-gasoline Burning Outboard Engine (NBOE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209

Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210

Marine Corps Information Operations Center (MCIOC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211

Non-Lethal Weapons (NLW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213

Communication-Electronic Equipment Maintenance Shelter (CEEMC) . . . . . . 215

Family of Tactical Soft Shelters (FTSS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216

Family of Field Medical Equipment (FFME) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217

Vehicular Multi-Band Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218

Virtual Training Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219

Joint Service General Purpose Mask M50 and M51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 223

Joint Chemical/Biological Coverall for Combat Vehicle Crewmen . . . . . . . . . . 224

Joint Effects Model (JEM) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225

Joint Warning and Reporting Network (JWARN).........................226

Joint Chemical Agent Detector (JCAD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227

Thermal Optic Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228

Non-Lethal Tube Launched Munitions System (VENOM®) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230

Mission Payload Module Non-Lethal Weapons System (MPM-NLWS) . . . . . . 231

Escalation of Forces Mission Modules (EoF-MM) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232

Targeting Systems................................................233

Ground-Based Air Defense Transformation (GBAD-T) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235

CHAPTER 4: Current Operations and Lessons Learned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236

CHAPTER 5: Marine Corps Almanac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 252

Appendix A: Other Supporting Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274

Appendix B: Acronyms & Abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 283
IX

table of c ontents
chapter 1
chapter 1 The USMC: America’s Expeditionary Force in Readiness

The U.S. Marine Corps:

Ready Today...More Capable Tomorrow

Marines exist to meet the security needs of the Nation, and in early 2009 we confront complex and difficult security challenges world wide. America’s Marines are intensely engaged in conflict response, which is characterized by central campaigns in 

Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as by diverse and sustained engagement around the globe 

through numerous theater security cooperation, humanitarian-assistance and disaster-relief actions. The Corps’ primary role in all these operations is to provide combined-arms operating forces, including integrated aviation and logistical components, 

for service as part of a naval expeditionary force. Marine forces significantly magnify 

the projection capabilities of U.S. naval forces, ensuring that they remain influential in 

peacetime, compelling in crisis and decisive in war. 

During the past year, Marines were engaged throughout the Central Command’s 

Area of Responsibility (AOR), in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi 

Freedom (OEF/OIF). The resourcefulness and versatility of our Marines has enabled 

our forces in Iraq to conduct major combat operations, engage in stability and security 

operations, and transition to counterinsurgency (COIN) operations. The Marine success in Anbar province along with the “Surge” in Iraq reinforced hard-won successes 

and allowed Iraqis to take responsibility for maintaining their own security. In al Anbar 

province, Iraqi security forces are now in charge and, in a very real sense, this is a model 

for what is taking place throughout the rest of the country. While we must remain 

1
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

2

cautious and ready to respond to spasms 

of violence, Al-Qaeda in Iraq is clearly on 

the run. 

As violence subsides in Iraq, we are 

experiencing a different situation in Afghanistan. There, the Taliban has increased and expanded its attacks on coalition forces, which calls for an expanded 

commitment of Marine forces. We face an 

enemy and operating environment that 

are different than that in Iraq, and Marines 

are adapting accordingly. Nearly 2,600 

Marines are deployed to various regions 

throughout Afghanistan — either as part 

of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground 

Task Force (SPMAGTF)–Afghanistan or 

as members of Embedded Training Teams 

or Individual Augmentees. The Embedded Training Teams live and work with 

the Afghan National Army and continue 

to increase the Afghan National Army’s 

capabilities as they grow capacity. As attacks against the Afghan people and their 

fledgling democracy intensify, we must 

be postured for an extended campaign.

The Marine Corps also deployed 

forces in numerous theater security cooperation tasks, from small Mobile Training 

Teams in Central America to MEU exercises in Africa, the Middle East, the Pacific Rim. America’s Marines also supported 

civil-military and humanitarian-assistance operations throughout the world. 

During the last two years, the Marine 

Corps-Navy team has brought relief to 

thousands of people devastated by tsunamis, cyclones and hurricanes and evacuated citizens from Lebanon in the largest 

non-combatant evacuation since the fall 

of Vietnam. 

While today’s Marines are performing superbly in every clime and place, 

it is a leadership obligation to Marines 

and the Nation to prepare for tomorrow’s challenges today. To meet emerging and projected security threats facing 

the Nation, the strategic role of the Marine Corps, as defined by the 82nd Congress, remains unchanged: To provide a 

capable expeditionary force in readiness 

that is fast, austere, and lethal. This legislated role underpins the Marine Corps 

Vision and Strategy 2025 document that 

provides the “blueprint” and critical steps 

needed to shape the Marine Corps for tomorrow’s challenges and opportunities. 

The future Marine Corps will continue to 

fulfill its unique role as the world’s premier naval expeditionary fighting force. 

To enhance its strategic relevance and operational utility, however, the Corps must 

be a “two-fisted” fighter — highly effective in major contingencies but equally 

capable in irregular warfare. For this, we 

believe the individual Marine is the most 

formidable weapon on today’s battlefield 

and will remain so tomorrow. He must 

be well trained, broadly educated and 
chapter 1 The USMC: America’s Expeditionary Force in Readiness

3

properly equipped for all forms of warfare. 

He is the cornerstone of the Corps, providing the Nation an expeditionary force 

of choice for tomorrow’s challenges.

America’s Marines are fully engaged 

in the fight for freedom, peace and security around the globe. Supporting them is 

our number-one priority.

Today’s Corps...Foundation 

for Tomorrow

The Marine Corps today is the Nation’s expeditionary force-in-readiness

as outlined by the U.S. Congress nearly 

60 years ago. The unique capabilities of 

Marine forces have never been in more 

demand, and employment of naval forces 

to influence events in the littorals has become a major focus of contingency planning. Building upon the Marine Corps’ 

current capabilities and the Service’s legacy of innovation, the Corps will remain 

expeditionary in mindset, naval in character and committed to combat readiness. We will continue to build on this 

legacy and explore all opportunities to 

improve today’s capabilities and meet our 

deep commitment to Marines and Marine families. To sustain and enhance our 

operational excellence, we are focused on 

the following objectives:

• Right-Size the Corps

• Reset and Modernize

• Improve Quality of Life

• Provide a Multi-Capable Naval Force

• Posture the Marine Corps for the Future

Right-Size the Corps

In 2006, the President approved 

a permanent end strength increase of 

27,000 Marines, from 175,000 to 202,000, 

and the Secretary of Defense established 

a timeline to complete this by the end of 

FY 2011. “Growing the Force” will enhance our ability to prepare for the full 

spectrum of operations, improve our 

posture for the prosecution of the Long 

War and relieve the strain on the Marines 

who have volunteered to fight the Nation’s battles. Last year, the Marine Corps 

exceeded expectations in growing the 

force and is on track to achieve its goals 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

4

two years earlier than planned, by the end 

of FY 2009.

The “202K Marine Corps” provides 

three balanced Marine Expeditionary Forces (MEFs) and relieves stress 

on the Active and Reserve components 

as well as on individual Marines and 

their families. In some critical-skills areas — particularly intelligence, artillery, 

tracked vehicles and engineers — today’s 

deployment-to-dwell ratio is actually 

less than 1:1. That means some Marines 

deploy for seven months but have less 

than seven months “dwell” back homes. 

We believe that we need seven months 

deployed and 14 months home, which 

would give us the opportunity to more 

fully train to core competencies and to 

reduce the stress on our families. Achieving the Active force’s 1:2 deployment-todwell ratio and 1:4 for our Reserves will 

strengthen our capacity to train for any 

clime and place and fulfill our promise 

to be “most ready when the Nation is 

least ready.”

We continue to pursue policies and 

operational practices to develop, sustain 

and access the skills, knowledge and expertise of the 39,600 Marines in the Selected Marine Corps Reserve (SMCR). 

Our approach will provide the most effective warfighting solution for the Marine 

Corps’ Total Force manpower requirements. In particular, the Marine Corps is 

optimizing the SMCR to lessen deployment requirements for the Active Component. More than 55 percent of SMCR

Marines and 10 percent of Individual 

Ready Reserve (IRR) Marines have been 

activated — with 99.6 percent of those 

having served in the Central Command 

AOR.

As we right-size the Marine Corps, 

we will ensure our Marines and their 

equipment and training will meet the 

full spectrum of expeditionary missions 

and tasks. America needs the capabilities 

of a “two-fisted” force. A balanced force 

that is fast moving and hard hitting that 

provides a forcible-entry capability for 

intense combat in a major contingency 

and is equally adept at providing humanitarian and disaster-relief assistance, in 

irregular/counter-insurgency operations. 

We will stay connected to our roots of a 

lighter, faster, hard-hitting, expeditionary and sea-based Marine Corps that is 

reliant on speed, maneuver, shock and 

surprise.
chapter 1 The USMC: America’s Expeditionary Force in Readiness

5

Reset and Modernize

As we right-size the force for the Long 

War and prepare for the inevitable crises and 

conflicts that will challenge us in the future, 

we must reset our forces that have been 

stressed by global commitments. Intense 

combat operations for the Long War have 

had a significant impact on Marine Corps 

equipment. Equipment usage rates are as 

much as seven times greater than peacetime rates — tremendously decreasing the 

projected lifespan of our gear. Resetting the 

force will refurbish or replace equipment 

damaged or lost during combat operations 

and restore the capability and readiness of 

the Corps for future threats and operations. 

In addition, strategic and pre-positioned 

equipment stocks need to be replenished 

so we can remain responsive to emerging 

threats. In this, Active Component and Reserve Component units are treated equally, 

with equipment distributed to the highestpriority need established by the Commandant, regardless of component. Importantly, 

given the Reserve’s contribution to Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, at the 

training centers Reserve battalions are pro-
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

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vided equipment identical to active units, 

although in lesser quantity, and they marry 

up with equipment already in theater when 

they deploy. 

Congress has responded rapidly and 

generously to our requests for equipment 

and increased protection for our Marines 

and Sailors. Our responsibility is to manage 

these resources prudently as we upgrade 

and modernize. Through FY 2008, we have 

invested heavily to restore combat capability and readiness and our deployed Marines 

are receiving the key items they need. We 

are constantly monitoring our total reset 

and investment requirements against the 

changing demands of the operational situation while striving to optimize industrial 

capacity and responsiveness.

The U.S./Japanese Defense Policy 

Review Initiative (DPRI) will strengthen 

Marine Corps crisis-response capabilities in 

the Pacific Rim while mitigating the effects 

of civilian and commercial encroachment 

on U.S. military facilities in Japan. The most 

significant DPRI action outlined in the U.S. 

Pacific Command’s Guam Integrated Military Development Plan is the completion 

of the Futenma Replacement Facility on 

Okinawa, Japan, which is closely linked to 

the realignment of Marine units north of 

Kadena Air Force Base on Okinawa; shifting of KC-130s aircraft from Futenma to 

Iwakuni, Japan; and moving approximately 

8,000 Marines and their family members 

from Okinawa, Japan, to Guam. This will 

create a sustainable, enduring presence in 

the Asia-Pacific region in support of U.S. 

Theater Security Cooperation programs 

with allied and partner countries. Additionally, this will enhance regional security and 

build partner capacity to shoulder more of 

the defense and regional presence burdens. 

A key aspect of the successful transfer of 

Marines to Guam is ensuring that housing 

and training facilities equivalent to those on 

Okinawa are built.
chapter 1 The USMC: America’s Expeditionary Force in Readiness

7

Equipping the Individual Marine

Marines are trained, educated and 

equipped to operate effectively across the 

broadest spectrum of missions and tasks. 

A Marine’s focus in the field is on operational excellence and mission achievement, and the focus of our programs is on 

the “tools” they need to get the job done. 

The Marine Corps is therefore pursuing 

a variety of efforts to deliver advanced 

personal-protection and weapons — our 

Marines deserve nothing but the best we 

can afford.

Working closely with the other 

Armed Services, federal agencies, industry, and academia, we are developing 

systems that have increased effectiveness, 

efficiency, lighter weight, and increased 

modularity, and are integrated with other 

infantry equipment. The Modular Tactical Vest (body armor), QuadGuard (arms 

and legs) and Flame-Resistant Organizational Gear (FROG) enhance personal 

protection. Individual weapons such as 

the M32 40mm Multi-Shot Grenade 

Launcher, Modular Service Weapon, and 

a Scout Sniper Capability will ensure our 

Marines can carry out the tasks at hand.

Ground Tactical Mobility 

The evolving threat environment 

requires proactive management of our 

tactical wheeled vehicle programs. The 

Marine Corps Ground Combat Tacti-
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

8

cal Mobility Strategy refines the Corps’ 

ground mobility portfolio to sustain a 

large-scale MEF forcible-entry capability 

balanced with a mix of ground combat 

tactical vehicles. Working closely with the 

Army, the Marine Corps is an equal partner in leading joint-service development 

of our light, medium and heavy tactical 

wheeled vehicles for the joint force. 

The Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle

(EFV) is the Marine Corps’ numberone priority ground program and is a 

principal enabler of Ship-to-ObjectiveManeuver (STOM) operational concepts. 

The EFV provides enhanced agility, night 

agility, night-fighting capability, greater 

water speed and mobility, nuclear-biological-chemical collective protection, 

survivability, firepower and lethality. 

Initiated in response to the 2006 Strategic Planning Guidance, the Marine Personnel Carrier combat vehicle program 

complements the EFV by providing expeditionary protection tailored for irregular 

warfare (including IEDs), in combination 

with high off-road mobility for combat 

forces. The highly successful Mine-Resistant Ambush-Protected Vehicle (MRAP) 

program fulfills the urgent requirement 

to provide highly survivable vehicles to 

the OEF/OIF theater as quickly as possible. We are actively pursuing vehicle upgrades to meet emerging threats and enhance automotive performance through 

both engineering change proposals and 

new-vehicle acquisition. The Joint Light 

Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) family of vehicles is focused on flexibility, survivability, force protection, responsiveness and 

agility, compared to the in-service High 

Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle 

(HMMWV). 

MAGTF Fires

Recent studies have identified serious gaps in our organic MAGTF firesupport capabilities, especially against 

moving and armored targets during joint 

forcible-entry operations. Additionally, 

we found that counter-battery systems 

would be very effective in irregular warfare contexts. We are therefore pursuing 

a Ground Fires Triad strategy to provide 

responsive, precision, 24-hour groundbased fires and reactive counter-fires in 

all weather conditions and throughout all 

phases of combat operations ashore.

The High-Mobility Artillery Rocket 

System (HIMARS) consists of a guidedrocket launcher with a command and control system and resupply vehicles transportable by assault-support aircraft. The 

Army is the lead developer of both the 

HIMARS launcher and the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System rockets, which 

have demonstrated 0-2 meter accuracy at 

ranges greater than 70 kilometers in realworld operations in Iraq. The Lightweight 
chapter 1 The USMC: America’s Expeditionary Force in Readiness

9

155mm Howitzer (LW155, also known 

as the M777) serves as the Marine Corps’ 

primary direct-support artillery. Transportable by air, the LW155 howitzer has 

already been used extensively by the Marines in Iraq and Afghanistan. The LW155 

can fire all current U.S. 155mm artillery 

munitions, including the Excalibur precision-guided munition. The Expeditionary 

Fire Support System (EFSS) will be the direct-support weapon system for the vertical-assault element of a STOM force. EFSS 

operational requirements include: the 

maximum range for an unassisted high-explosive round is no less than 7 kilometers; 

the system is internally transportable 110 

nautical miles by both the MV-22 and 

CH-53E; and the launcher prime mover, 

the launcher, a portion of the basic load of 

ammunition and elements of the crew can 

be transported in a single inter/intra-theater lift aircraft. 

Marine Aviation

The Marine aviation modernization 

effort will replace every major aircraft 

type in our inventory, making the future 

joint force more effective across the range 

of military operations. Tilt-rotor and 

short take-off and vertical-landing aircraft (STOVL) technologies bring revolutionary enhancements to the battlefield. 

The greater range, speed and agility will 

enable flexible distributed shipboard and 

expeditionary airfield basing, rapid response to crises, high sortie-generation 

rates, a small “footprint” ashore or on 

ships and improved survivability. Our 

STOVL aircraft will thus improve the agility and utility of the MAGTF/MEF Aviation Command Element and its contribution to the joint fight. Although the Long 

War has resulted in aircraft usage rates 

that are far greater than designed or pro-
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

10

grammed, our mitigation strategies will 

manage our in-service inventory through 

their transition to newer platforms. However, projected shortfalls in legacy aircraft 

(especially the F/A-18D Hornet and CH53E helicopter) underscore the urgency 

for next-generation STOVL and heavylift aircraft programs.

The STOVL F-35 Lightning II, Joint 

Strike Fighter (JSF) is a network-enabled 

and digitally interoperable expeditionary 

aviation combat element that will execute 

responsive, persistent, lethal and adaptive 

full-spectrum operations. There are three 

JSF variants for U.S. and international users: STOVL (U.S. Marine Corps, United 

Kingdom and Italy); a conventional 

take-off and landing variant (U.S. Air 

Force); and a variant tailored for aircraft 

carrier operations (U.S. Navy). The Marine Corps’s JSF will operate from every 

available basing environment, including 

prepared airstrips, austere sites and largedeck amphibious warships. The MV-22B 

Osprey has twice the speed, three times 

the payload and more than six times the 

range compared to the CH-46E mediumlift helicopter it replaces. Operating from 

virtually any shore base and amphibious 

platform, the MV-22B’s primary missions 

include combat assault, combat resupply and casualty evacuation. The initial 

combat deployment of the Osprey, with 

VMM-263 in Iraq during early 2008, 

clearly demonstrated the effectiveness of 

this unique naval aircraft. The next-generation CH-53K Heavy-Lift Helicopter is 

critical to sea basing and STOM operational concepts with its ability to externally transport 27,000 pounds at ranges 

of 110 nautical miles, more than doubling 

the current, increasingly obsolescent, 

CH-53E lift capability. The KC-130J Super Hercules tanker is replacing our aging 

KC-130R/T tanker fleet. The KC-130J offers increased utility, increased speed and 

range, improved air-to-air refueling system, and night systems and survivability 

enhancements. It is capable of refueling 

both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft 

as well as conducting rapid “hot-engine” 

ground refueling.

In addition to new-aircraft acquisition, The AH-1Z Super Cobra and UH-1Y 

Huey Upgrade Program will ensure that 

the MAGTF possesses credible rotarywing attack and utility support platforms 

for at least the next 20 years. The program 

will reduce life-cycle costs, significantly 

improve operational capabilities and extend the service life of both aircraft. The 

two helicopters have eighty-four percent 

of the design in common, which greatly 

enhances the maintainability and deployability of the systems, particularly in light 

of the capability to support and operate 

both aircraft within the same squadron 

structure.
chapter 1 The USMC: America’s Expeditionary Force in Readiness

11

Finally, the Marine Corps operates 

two Unmanned Aviation Systems (UAS): 

Dragon Eye (in the process of transitioning to Joint Raven-B) and Shadow. 

Dragon Eye has flown more than 10,000 

hours in support of OIF and OEF, and the 

Shadow has replaced the Pioneer in Iraq. 

The Pioneer had flown more than 18,000 

combat hours in theater, underscoring 

our critical need for these systems. We 

are conducting an over-arching requirements study to refine future requirements 

for the USMC Family of Unmanned Aviation Systems. For example, the Vertical 

Unmanned Aircraft System (VUAS) will 

provide a responsive, real-time reconnaissance, surveillance, intelligence, targeting and weapons employment capabilities organic to the MAGTF and Joint 

Force Commanders. Its key attributes will 

include vertical takeoff and landing from 

all air-capable ships and austere land 

bases, sufficient speed to be responsive 

and tactically agile, and the survivability 

required to operate effectively in deniedaccess environments.

Command and Control

The Marine Corps Command and 

Control (C2) Harmonization Strategy 

synchronizes top-down and bottom-up requirements to create a joint-integrated and 

resource-informed vision for MAGTF C2. 

It is the Marine Corps’ application of Navy 

FORCEnet capabilities and the service 

“plug-in” to the Net-Enabled Command 

Capability and Net-centric Enterprise Services. The Common Aviation Command 

and Control System, MAGTF C2 Systems 

and Applications Software Baseline, and 

the Combat Operations Center will provide the joint task force commander maximum flexibility resulting from seamless 

integration with joint and coalition partners. The Marine Corps Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Enterprise

(MCISR-E) integrating concept is being 

designed to enable the MAGTF Commander to sense threats and other activities in near real time and without interruption. The MAGTF C2 family of systems will 

provide the interfaces necessary to integrate 

capabilities into combat operations centers 

and small unit C2 nodes. The Global Combat Support System–Marine Corps (GCSSMC) is the primary technology enabler for 

the Marine Corps Logistics Modernization strategy. It is a portfolio of approximately 40 legacy systems that provide the 

backbone for all MAGTF logistics information, enabling the warfighter to operate while deployed with reach back from 

the battlefield.

Improve Quality of Life

Our Highest Priority — 

The Individual Marine

We take care of our own — period. 

Just as every Marine makes a commitment to the Corps when they earn the title 

“Marine,” the Corps makes an enduring 

commitment to every Marine — and an 

enduring commitment to their families 

— in peacetime and war. Our pledge is to 

honor those who have fallen and always 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

12

to treat their families with compassion, 

dignity and honor.

Others have come home, burdened 

by severe injuries. The Wounded Warrior 

Regiment, stood up in April 2007, is responsible for non-medical wounded warrior care. It has absorbed all facets of the 

Marine For Life program and will continue that function as a part of its overall 

responsibilities. The Regiment’s mission 

is to provide and facilitate assistance to 

wounded, ill or injured Marines and their 

family members, throughout the phases 

of recovery. The Regiment maintains a 

“24/7” call center with links to the USMC 

website (www.Marines.mil/units/hqmc/

mnra/wwr/Pages/Home.aspx) to provide a venue where separated and active 

duty Marines can seek help. In addition, 

the program is reaching out to more than 

9,000 Marines who were identified by a 

casualty report during OEF/OIF but are 

now separated from the service. The Regimental Headquarters element, located in 

Quantico, Virginia, coordinates the operations of the Wounded Warrior Battalions located at Camp Pendleton, California (covers Hawaii), and Camp Lejeune, 

North Carolina.

Among the highest-priority medical concerns for the Marine Corps are 

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and PostTraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). As 

many as 10 percent of returning service 

members have sustained a TBI during deployment, and, while 90 percent have fully recovered by their return home, many 

need further assistance. The Defense and 

Veterans Brain Injury Center maintains 

clinics at Camp Lejeune, Camp Pendleton and in Hawaii that provide critical expertise in treating Marines with TBI. The 

Wounded Warrior Regiment tracks Marines who have sustained a TBI and ensures that they and their families receive 

the assistance they need.

Some five-to-seven percent of Marines returning from Iraq and Afghanistan report PTSD symptoms. In response, 

we have developed hyper-realistic stressinoculation training that simulates as 

closely as possible the sights, sounds and 

smells of combat. Other initiatives, including the Operational Stress Control 

and Readiness (OSCAR) program, which 

improves access to psychological care 

and reduces the personal stigma that can 

be associated with PTSD, and the Combat/Operational Stress Control (COSC) 

program, which focuses on force preservation and readiness and long-term 

health and well-being, directly supports 

these goals.

Marine Families 

Marine families are proud of their 

contributions to the Long War; we owe it 

to those families to put our family service 

programs onto a wartime footing. We are 

enhancing family support services at every level of command and in each Marine 

Corps installation by:

• Increasing staffing and technological improvements at our Unit Family Readiness 

Program and Marine Corps Family Team 

Building Program

• Improving the Exceptional Family Member 

Program from one primarily responsible 

for integrity of assignments to a program 
chapter 1 The USMC: America’s Expeditionary Force in Readiness

13

providing for the continuity of care of 

all our Exceptional Family Member 

Program members

• Establishing a school liaison capability at 

every Marine Corps Installation to advocate 

for our school age children for access and 

availability to quality education and seek 

ways to mitigate education transition issues

• Transitioning our Children, Youth and Teen 

Programs to ensure that our Marines’ child 

care needs are met at remote and isolated 

military locations

• Expanding communication capabilities 

of units to Marines and their families via 

information technology initiatives, such as 

the Mass Communication Tool (interactive 

mass communication capabilities) and the 

Family Readiness Assessment Tool (provides 

commander with a snapshot of unit family 

readiness and instant feedback to Marines 

on their personal family readiness), and

• Accelerating our Child Development Center 

military construction projects

The successful Marine Corps Public Private Venture (PPV) and housing 

privatization authorities are integral to 

our efforts to accommodate both existing 

and future family housing requirements. 

The need for additional family housing 

will increase by more than 30 percent 

as the “202K Marine Corps” is achieved. 

Our public-private venture initiatives are 

not only providing outstanding quality 

homes and community support facilities, 

but they are also providing significantly 

improved maintenance services. With 

strong congressional support, the Marine 

Corps privatized 96 percent of its worldwide family housing inventory by the end 

of FY 2008, and in future years we will request funding for 1,500 new PPV homes 

and renovation of 42 percent of our overseas family housing to keep it adequate. 

Barracks and Infrastructure 

Modernization

Barracks for enlisted Marines and 

Bachelor Officers Quarters are qualityof-life concerns that directly affect quality of service and retention. By the end of 

FY 2010, most of the Bachelor Enlisted 

Quarters associated with “Growing the 

Force” will be completed. Older barracks 

will be retained in order to provide additional “surge” living space for Marines to 

live until all new barracks are completed, 

with the permanent solution to demolish 

these older facilities as soon as possible.
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

14

Another 54 infrastructure projects — 

such as roads, water treatment and electrical-generating facilities — and operational facilities need to be completed. In 

FY 2008 the Marine Corps total facilities 

sustainment requirement was more than 

$570 million to maintain approximately 

$40 billion of infrastructure.

Provide a Multi-Capable 

Naval Force

The enduring value of naval expeditionary forces in protecting our homeland, 

preventing or responding to crises, and 

winning our Nation’s wars is a key theme of 

the tri-service maritime strategy, A Cooperative Strategy for 21st Century Seapower, 

and the Naval Operational Concept. These 

foundation documents underscore the 

need to maintain enduring U.S. advantages 

in operational maneuver, projecting force 

to gain and maintain access, and winning 

the battle for influence — thus preventing 

conflict. Our ability to maintain a sovereign sea base off shore in critical world regions undergirds partnerships and enables 

selective missions. We will sustain and enhance our naval expeditionary advantages 

to help ensure that vital U.S. interests are 

safeguarded, world wide. 

Joint Seabasing 

Joint Seabasing will enable forward 

presence and engagement while “stepping 

lightly” on local sensitivities and avoiding 

unintended political, social and economic 

disruptions that often result from a large 
chapter 1 The USMC: America’s Expeditionary Force in Readiness

15

American presence on foreign shores. 

Seabasing allows us, in concert with our 

sister Services and allies, to conduct a 

broad range of operations. Embarked 

Marines on multiple platforms such as 

amphibious warfare ships, Maritime 

Prepositioning Force (Future) ships, Joint 

High Speed Vessels, surface connectors 

and future aviation platforms will enable 

Commanders to influence events ashore 

from over the horizon and play a key role 

in surmounting access challenges. These 

capabilities and programs are scalable 

(i.e., Global Fleet Station) and expand 

operational maneuver options and facilitate assured access from the sea. Seabasing breaks down the traditional sea-land 

barrier, maximizes the effect of forward 

presence and assures joint access. 

Amphibious Ships 

Amphibious warfare ships are the 

centerpiece of the Navy-Marine Corps’ 

forcible-entry and seabasing capabilities. 

These ships are equipped with aviation 

and surface-assault capabilities that, coupled with their survivability, make them 

ideally suited to support a broad range 

of mission requirements. Not only must 

amphibious forces maintain the ability to 

rapidly close, decisively employ, and sustain Marines from the sea, their capacity 

to provide equipment and supplies ashore 

both vertically and by surface connectors 

enables them to quickly respond to any 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

16

crises or disasters on short notice around 

the world. 

For major operations, a Marine Expeditionary Force will aggregate the assault 

echelons of two Marine Expeditionary 

Brigades to support amphibious assault. 

By shifting a portion of their vehicles and 

cargo to follow-on shipping, the assault 

echelon of each brigade can be accommodated on 17 ships, for a total of 34. Given 

an appropriate maintenance factor, this 

calls for an inventory of 38 amphibious 

ships comprising not less than 11 largedeck aviation-capable (LHA/LHD), 11 

Landing Platform Dock (LPD), 12 Landing Ship Dock (LSD), and four additional 

ships, which can either be LPD or LSD. 

This force structure accepts a degree of 

risk but is feasible if the assault echelons 

can be rapidly reinforced by Maritime 

Prepositioning Future (MPF(F)).

The San Antonio (LPD-17) Amphibious Transport Dock ships are optimized 

for operational flexibility and designed to 

meet MAGTF lift requirements, including helicopter operations, 34,000 cubic 

feet for cargo, accommodations for approximately 720 troops (800 surge) and a 

medical facility (24 beds and two medical 

and two dental operating rooms). 

The newly-designed LHA 6 USS 

America is the first of this new class 

of ships that will provide enhanced 

forward-presence and power-projection 

capabilities. LHA 6 will be an aviationcentric modified repeat of the LHD 8 and 

is scheduled for delivery to the Navy in 

2013. Key differences between LHA 6 

and the LHD Class ships include an enlarged hangar deck, enhanced aviation 

maintenance facilities, increased aviation 

fuel capacity, additional aviation storerooms, removal of the well deck, and an 

electronically reconfigurable C4ISR suite. 

With elements of a Marine landing force, 

the LHA 6 will operate helicopters, MV22 and Joint Strike Fighter aircraft for 

sustained periods. The LHA 6 will also 

support contingency-response, forcibleentry and power-projection operations. 

Joint High-Speed Vessel (JHSV) bridges 

the gap between low-speed sealift and 

high-speed airlift. It enables rapid closure 

of forces to the sea base from advanced 

bases, logistics movement from pre-positioned ships to amphibious shipping, 

ship-to-ship replenishment and, in appropriate threat environments, maneuver of assault forces to in-theater austere ports. The Ship to Shore Connector 

(SSC) is the functional replacement for 

the Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) 

vehicles, providing a high-speed, overthe-beach sea base-to-shore connector 

capability for carrying all Marine Corps 

ground equipment. Maritime Prepositioning Force (Future) — MPF(F) — 

program will preposition the equipment 
chapter 1 The USMC: America’s Expeditionary Force in Readiness

17

and supplies of a Marine Expeditionary 

Brigade and will provide the ability to 

rapidly reinforce the assault echelon of a 

Marine Expeditionary Force, selectively 

offload materiel, and assemble and project joint or multinational forces at and 

from sea without reliance on ports or airfields in the objective area. Additionally, 

these ships will augment and reinforce 

other naval forces for smaller contingency operations. One or more MPF(F) 

ships can support disaster-response operations by providing equipment and supplies, while an aviation-capable MPF(F) 

ship can complement an Amphibious 

Ready Group/Marine Expeditionary Unit 

(ARG/MEU) during a non-combatant 

evacuation by providing additional deck 

spots for 24-hour flight-deck operations.

Optimally, the MPF(F) squadron 

will include: three aviation-capable ships 

(two LHA and one LHD); three auxiliary 

cargo and ammunition ships (T-AKE); 

three “float-on/float-off ” Mobile Landing Platforms (MLP); three Large, Medium Speed, Roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) 

ships; and two traditional prepositioning 

ships. Additionally, two squadrons of the 

legacy MPS will be retained. Each of these 

squadrons will carry the equipment and 

supplies of a Marine Expeditionary Brigade on board five-to-six ships.

Posture the Marine Corps 

for the Future

The Marine Corps Vision and 

Strategy 2025 — rooted in our traditions and core competencies, focused 

on today’s critical priorities, and anticipating emerging requirements of a new 

era — serves several purposes. It states 

in fundamental terms what we will be 

and, most importantly, establishes the 

operational foundation that will guide 

institutional efforts to ensure the Corps 

is effectively organized, trained, and 

equipped for tomorrow’s challenges.

Focus on the Individual Marine 

The individual Marine will remain 

our most important warfighting asset. 

The recruitment, training, professional 

education, and retention of high-quality, 

disciplined warriors imbued with our 

core values is paramount to our mission. 

Marines at all levels must be prepared to 

excel in ambiguous and dangerous conditions and operate from a commander’s 

intent with minimal direct supervision. 

And we will continue to exploit technology to enhance the performance of the 

individual warrior.

Improve Training and Education 

for Fog, Friction and Uncertainty 

Our realistic training and education 

system will prepare Marines for complex 

conditions and to counter the unexpected. It will provide small unit leaders the 

tactical acumen and knowledge to develop and assess these conditions in order 

to make sound decisions, and the proficiency to employ supporting intelligence, 

fires, and information resources. Our 

noncommissioned and junior officers 

will be prepared for greater responsibility 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

18

in an increasingly complex environment 

with the potential for operating in a decentralized manner.

Expand Persistent Forward 

Presence and Engagement 

The Marine Corps will provide tailored, persistently engaged, and contingency-capable MAGTFs in five highpriority regions:

1. East and Southeast Asian Littorals — 

U.S. Pacific Command (PACOM)

2. Red Sea, Arabian Gulf, and Arabian 

Sea Littorals — U.S. Central Command 

(CENTCOM)

3. East and West African Littorals — U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and CENTCOM

4. Latin America and the Caribbean Basin — 

U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM)

5. Mediterranean Sea and North African

Littorals — U.S. European Command 

(EUCOM) and AFRICOM

Marines will be consistently deployed 

in the littoral areas of these regions and 

deliberately engaged in the campaign 

plans of the combatant commanders: 

(1) the routine, rotational deployment 

Marine Corps Vision and Strategy 2025

Vision 

The Marine Corps of 2025 will fight and win our Nation’s battles with multi-capable Marine Air Ground Task Forces, either from the sea or in sustained operations 

ashore. Our unique role as the Nation’s force in readiness, along with our values, enduring ethos, and core competencies, will ensure that we remain responsive to combatant 

commanders. In an uncertain and complex world, and against irregular and hybrid 

as well as traditional threats, we will continue to excel as the Nation’s expeditionary 

“force-of-choice.”

Strategy

To achieve this vision, the Marine Corps will be:

Organized to execute operations with MAGTFs that are mission tailored and 

operate as part of a naval and joint team.

Optimized to conduct naval expeditionary operations while retaining the institutional agility, battlefield flexibility and initiative to meet constantly changing 

conditions of crisis and combat.

Modernized with equipment and logistics that expand expeditionary capability 

and preserve our ability to operate from the sea.

Postured to prevent or respond to crises with forward positioned MAGTFs — 

both afloat and ashore — that are engaged and ready to act decisively in response 

to combatant commanders’ requirements.
chapter 1 The USMC: America’s Expeditionary Force in Readiness

19

of Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs) 

as theater “first responders”; (2) the routine, rotational deployment of SpecialPurpose MAGTFs (SPMAGTFs) for such 

missions as training and advising, stability, humanitarian support, and other 

theater security cooperation activities; 

and (3) providing an advisory group capacity within each Marine Expeditionary 

Force (MEF).

Posture for Hybrid Threats in 

Complex Environments 

Without sacrificing its conventional 

capabilities, the Corps will prepare to conduct operations against hybrid threats in 

complex environments — urbanized littorals, mountainous terrain, and dense 

jungles. We must successfully identify, 

engage, and operate against clever and 

cunning opponents who will exploit irregular approaches with modern lethal capabilities and advanced cyber technology. 

Robust intelligence capabilities will support all levels of command awareness and 

decision-making. Advancements in secure 

communications will extend the commander’s operational reach and enhance 

force protection. Our approach to problem 

solving and organization, our maneuver 

warfare philosophy, and our combinedarms skills will continue to serve us well in 

these chaotic environments.

Reinforce Naval Relationships 

The ability to operate freely in the littorals and high seas underwrites America’s access to foreign markets. Likewise, it 

is fundamental for our ability to carry out 

humanitarian and disaster-relief efforts, 

to support theater security cooperation 

strategies, and to protect our national 

interests in crises and conflict. The Navy 

has embraced a posture of persistent 

presence and multifaceted engagement 

worldwide. The Corps’ ability to integrate 

and operate seamlessly with the Navy — 

and increasingly the Coast Guard under 

the tri-service Cooperative Strategy and 

Naval Operational Concept — requires 

constant attention to relationships, skills 

and mindsets developed through years of 

side-by-side operations. The Corps will 

place renewed emphasis on training, exercises, and deployments in order to reinvigorate our expeditionary roots and the 

naval relationships that have served the 

Nation well for more than two centuries.

Ensure Amphibious Force Levels Meet Strategic Requirements 

We are resolved to maintain the requisite capacity of modern amphibious 

lift to support the Nation’s ability to execute forcible-entry operations and other 

critical expeditionary roles, missions, and 

tasks in support of the regional combatant commanders. The Nation’s amphibious lift requirement has two primary 

drivers. The first is the capacity to support joint forcible-entry operations. This 

is a MEF-level requirement, defined as 

the total shipping needed to lift a MEF 

command element and the assault echelon of two Marine Expeditionary Brigade 

equivalents, reinforced by a third MEB 

equivalent through the use of Maritime 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

20

Prepositioning Force (Future) assets. 

The second driver is the combatant commanders’ needs for theater security cooperation, presence, and crisis-response 

forces, requirements that have increased 

significantly the frequency of these 

missions and other expeditionary and 

amphibious operations since the end of 

the Cold War. 

Create Joint Seabasing

Capabilities 

We will improve our ability to cross 

wide expanses of ocean and remain persistently offshore at the place and time of 

our choosing. Joint force commanders 

depend upon the sea as both maneuver 

space and as a secure base of operations 

to overcome anti-access capabilities. 

Seabasing is our approach to both challenges. Seabasing provides an initial port 

and airfield afloat in the area of operations to minimize the reliance on ports 

and airfields ashore in support of security 

cooperation activities, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, adversary deterrence, and major combat operations. Our 

Maritime Prepositioning Force (Future) 

program, amphibious ships, and other 

seabasing initiatives will expand joint 

operational capabilities and offer tremendous flexibility to joint force commanders. The ability to conduct at-sea transfer 

of resources, for both ship-to-ship and 

ship-to-shore purposes, is a key enabler 

for deploying, employing, and sustaining 

joint forces sovereign bases at sea, while 

minimizing the operational and political 

“footprint” of our joint forces ashore.

Lead Joint/Multinational 

Operations and Enable 

Interagency Activities 

A clearly changing characteristic of 

the modern battle space is the shift from 

a primarily military focus to one that 

achieves a greater degree of operational 

integration of all instruments of national power. Accordingly, we will extend 

our combined-arms approach and add a 

“combined-actions” orientation. We will 

integrate interagency capabilities into our 

training, education, campaign planning, 

and operations while also improving our 

own capabilities to lead joint task forces. 

We will offer training and educational 

venues to joint, multinational, and interagency personnel. This will assist our 

preparation for contingencies and build 

the relationships needed when the Nation 

calls on the Corps to lead or enable a joint, 

multinational, or interagency effort.

Maintain a Ready 

Sustainable Reserve 

Our total-force approach will enable 

the Marine Corps to meet its force-generation requirements. We will pursue policies and operational practices to better 

develop and access the skills, knowledge, 

and expertise of Marines in the Reserve 

Component. Optimizing the use of the 

Reserve Component as a Total Force provider will generate the most cost-effective 

solution for the Marine Corps’ manpower 

requirements. 

Build and Deploy 
chapter 1 The USMC: America’s Expeditionary Force in Readiness

21

Multi-Capable MAGTFs

Our MAGTFs will be decisive across 

the range of military operations with their 

capacity tailored to combatant commanders’ requirements. They will be optimized 

to operate as an integrated system through 

the air, land, and maritime domains, as 

well as the information environment. We 

will be properly sized to reduce strategic 

and operational risks and provide our 

Nation’s leadership with the capabilities 

and right capacity to execute the missions 

we are assigned. Operational experience 

reaffirms the Congress’ decision to define 

the composition of the Corps as a combined arms team with a specified structure of three balanced, modern MEFs in 

the Active Component.

Corps Competencies

Achievement of the above strategic 

objectives will ensure that the Marine 

Corps remains proficient in its six core 

competencies and is the primary means 

by which the Corps will achieve its strategic vision.

The Marine Corps is devoted to an expeditionary way of life. It requires a force 

that is deployed with our Navy shipmates 

and engaged in the littorals, shaping the 

operational environment, and contributing to the prevention of conflict. 

• The Corps conducts persistent forward naval 

engagement and is always prepared to respond 

as the Nation’s force in readiness.

• The Corps employs integrated combined 

arms across the range of military operations 

and can operate as part of a joint or multinational force.

• The Corps provides forces and specialized 

detachments for service aboard naval ships, 

on stations, and for operations ashore.

• The Corps conducts joint forcible entry operations from the sea and develops amphibious 

landing force capabilities and doctrine.

• The Corps conducts complex expeditionary 

operations in the urban littorals and other 

challenging environments.

• The Corps leads joint and multinational operations and enables interagency activities.

Realizing the Vision

For more than 230 years, United 

States Marines have distinguished themselves in peace, crisis, and war. Forwarddeployed with the Navy, other U.S. Armed 

Services, and the military forces of allies 

and friends, America’s Marines deliver a 

“two-fisted fight” to our enemies as well 

as non-kinetic “soft power” — humantarian and disaster-relief operations —

for regional peace and security. Buttressed 

by our values, enduring ethos, and core 

competencies, we are highly responsive 

to the needs of combatant commanders 

in ambiguous environments and against 

irregular threats — as well as large-scale 

conventional conflict. In this, the Marine 

Corps will be increasingly focused on naval deployments and expeditionary capabilities.

Operating forward in fully capable 

combined-arms teams, Marine Corps 

forces will be on the scene, ever ready to 

protect the Nation’s interests. We will remain fundamentally a naval expeditionary force, as fully capable on the seas as 

on land and in the air. Marine forces, with 

the Navy, will be able to project forces 

rapidly across any shore, against any foe, 

while sustaining ourselves from sea or ex-
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

22

peditionary land bases. As America’s expeditionary “force-of-choice” we will be 

responsive and agile in approach, leaner 

in equipment, versatile in capabilities, 

and innovative in mindset.

Indeed, the Marine Corps has been 

at the forefront of military innovation 

since 1775. Innovation and improvisation will remain the foundation upon 

which we build the Corps of the future. 

The Corps will remain an adaptable organization, able to anticipate and adjust 

quickly to any challenge. We will continuously exploit the latest technologies, systems, concepts, and methods 

available to enhance the operational effectiveness of our forces.

Likewise, the Corps will continue 

to comprise the world’s finest military 

professionals, thinkers, and leaders. 

Individual Marines will continue to be 

trained and educated to act intelligently, to independently seek responsibility 

and to be accountable. Without doubt, 

the individual Marine is the most formidable “weapon system” on today’s battlefield...and will remain so tomorrow. 

We understand that a force in readiness 

must be well trained, broadly educated 

and properly equipped. We know as 

well that, while we must ensure that all 

Marines have what they need to achieve 

victory in the Long War, we must not 

lose sight of recruitment and retention, 

training and education, force structure, 

and quality of life requirements.

Our role as the Nation’s expeditionary force-in-readiness remains remarkably enduring and useful despite the 

dramatic changes in the strategic environment. The Marine Corps will be recognized globally as the premier crisisresponse force. We will be prepared to 

fight, anywhere, anytime, under any circumstances, and win decisively. Indeed, 

the strategic value of a combined-arms 

expeditionary and amphibious force 

standing most ready when the Nation 

is least ready remains undiminished, if 

not increased today. And, our emerging joint doctrine properly reflects the 

criticality of integrating all service capabilities within a unified warfighting 

effort. In this, our near-term priorities 

and long-term vision are crucial as the 

Marine Corps responds to congressional direction for a fourth Quadrennial 

Defense Review (QDR) in 2009.

2009 Quadrennial Defense 

Review

The 2009 Quadrennial Defense Review marks the fourth time that the United States will reassess the Department of 

Defense’s strategy, operational concepts, 

forces and modernization plans and 

programs. In the process, defense analysts will focus on “right-sizing” Defense 

forces to match the resources available. 

As part of the QDR, the military services 

will articulate their visions and competencies and will develop programmatic 

and budgetary plans required to meet 

the Nation’s security challenges. The 

plans will address several core questions: 
chapter 1 The USMC: America’s Expeditionary Force in Readiness

23

What are the strategic and operational 

settings in which U.S. forces will be employed? What are the threats to U.S. forces in those settings? What capabilities 

should our forces possess to defeat those 

threats? What are the requirements-capability gaps and how should we bridge 

them? And, what diplomatic purposes 

will U.S. forces serve?

As the QDR aligns the National Military Strategy with resources to support 

the Administration’s national security 

posture, it is essential that the strategy 

reflect the fact that the United States is 

most fundamentally a maritime nation, 

dependent on the unfettered use of the 

seas for its economic well being and to 

project military power in support of 

national interests. This reality and our 

close linkages with regional powers and 

economies demand that our national security strategy be transoceanic in scope 

and maritime in focus. More than half 

of the world’s population and more than 

three-quarters of world cities are within 

50 miles of the sea, underscoring the 

likelihood that the littorals will remain 

focal points of military, economic, cultural and environmental instability, 

tension, crisis and conflict. To protect 

vital U.S. security interests, citizens and 

friends, and to sustain our global leadership, a U.S. strategy based on the sea 

power concepts of forward presence, 

expeditionary power projection and sea 

control is essential. Moreover, U.S. forces 

must not only be combat-effective but 

also diplomatically useful in preventing conflict across the widest range of 

scenarios. 

Naval forces are uniquely suited to 

overcoming both diplomatic and operational impediments to access, while 

respecting the sovereignty of littoral 

states. They are powerful instruments 

of national policy with special strengths 

stemming from the complementary but 

distinct capabilities of Navy and Marine 

Corps forces to command the seas and 

conduct operations ashore. More specifically, America’s naval forces provide:

• Self-sustaining, sea based expeditionary 

forces, the Nation’s preeminent, combinedarms teams, uniquely tailored to fight and 

win from the sea. Manned, trained and 

equipped to operate without reliance on 

ports or airfields in an objective area. Expeditionary 

naval forces are ready to fight when they 

“leave the pier” and are self-sustaining 

throughout their extended deployments.

• Persistent presence without permanence, 

operating forward without reliance on hostcountry basing or overflight permission. 

Forward-deployed naval forces conduct 

security cooperation, build partnerships, 

prevent and deter conflict, communicate our 

Nation’s intent, respond to crises and, when 

necessary, bring the fight to our adversaries 

and facilitate the introduction of additional 

naval, joint, or multinational forces, as well 

as interagency, international or non-governmental organizations. 

• Maritime domain expertise, fully cognizant 

of the complexities of the water, air, and 

land interface, naval forces are the only 

forces skilled at operating at this confluence. They defend the homeland in-depth, 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

24

protect national interests in the maritime 

domain, including space and cyberspace and 

safeguard the Nation’s vital global interests. 

They fight by imposing sea control and 

projecting power ashore as part of a service, 

joint or multinational team. They employ a 

range of lethal and non-lethal capabilities 

in both irregular/hybrid and conventional 

conflicts. Enabled by sea basing, naval forces 

assure global access.

• Flexible force options are scalable with 

respect to capability, capacity and legal authorities. Our forward-deployed posture is a 

cost-effective means of proactively influencing events and responding to crises. When 

required, other naval forces surged from 

globally dispersed locations can rapidly reinforce forward-deployed naval forces. Their 

inherent mobility, organizational agility and 

self-sustainability provide the combatant 

commanders with a variety of options, including the ability to command and control 

joint task forces from afloat and ashore, for 

missions across the spectrum of operations. 

• Comprehensive deterrence, via the ability 

to conduct or support proactive, unconventional activities designed to prevent conflict, 

complemented by a credible, maneuverable and scalable ability to retaliate against 

aggression using conventional and nuclear 

weapons. 

• Joint, multinational and interagency enabling, facilitating the integration and application of all elements of national power for 

activities across the spectrum of operations. 

Victorious on hundreds of battlefields across more than two centuries, 

Marines have repeatedly demonstrated 

global relevance and combat effectiveness to the Nation and our friends and 

enemies world wide. Today’s domestic 

and global environments pose complex 

and daunting economic and security 

challenges to America — global recession and continuing war efforts in the 

CENTCOM AOR — that will demand 

balanced apportionment of limited resources. In this, the Marine Corps has 

identified four critical issues that must be 

addressed and prioritized by the QDR:

• First, we must re-establish the relevance of 

our naval forces’ global posture as essential 

to the Nation’s security.

• Second, we must hold the gains made in 

Afghanistan this past year and prepare for 

even greater efforts next year.

• Third, we must ensure a lasting transition 

from conflict to post-conflict actions in Iraq. 

• And, fourth, we must re-establish our maritime expeditionary character. 

The Marine Corps will be an important factor in the Nation’s response 

to these issues, and the need for the 

Corps to have additional resources to 

secure these goals must be addressed. 

The Marine Corps believes the 

QDR will revalidate the unique contributions made to national defense by 

Navy and Marine Corps expeditionary 

forces. Indeed, the Corps has demonstrated its ability to grow without reducing standards while at the same time 

satisfying increased combatant commander demands. Marines will ensure 

regional stability by supporting statecraft, protecting vital interests and, 

when necessary, projecting decisive 

combat power. Marines will remain the 
chapter 1 The USMC: America’s Expeditionary Force in Readiness

25

sine qua non for America’s 21st Century 

global engagement.

The remainder of the 2009 edition 

of Concepts & Programs describes our 

concepts and organization, research 

and development, acquisition programs, 

and current operations that are guided 

by our fundamental principles. 
chapter 2
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

27

concepts and organization

Introduction

The Marine Corps-Navy Team is engaged in a focused, long-term transformation that will allow us to respond to a changing national security environment.This 

transformation is dedicated to greatly expanding the worldwide, sovereign options 

available to the President of the United States across the full spectrum of warfare, by 

exploiting one of our nation’s asymmetric advantages, control of the sea. To this end, 

this chapter addresses our current warfighting concepts.
chapter 2

part 1 

concepts
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

29

United States Marine Corps Strategy And Concepts

The United States Marine Corps has partnered with the Navy and Coast Guard to 

produce a family of strategy and concept documents that articulate a singular vision 

of the naval contribution to fulfilling the National Defense Strategy. These publications 

provide a hierarchy of mutually supporting ideas that guide capability development in 

the naval service. 

A Cooperative Strategy for 21st Century Seapower describes how the Navy, Marine 

Corps and Coast Guard contribute to achieving enduring objectives. The Naval Operations Concept 2008 describes how, when and where U.S. naval forces will contribute to 

preventing conflict and, when necessary, prevailing in war, in order to guide maritime 

strategy implementation. The Marine Corps Vision and Strategy 2025 document provides guidance and direction for the future and describes our core competencies — 

“what we do.” The Marine Corps:

• Conducts persistent forward naval engagement and is always prepared to respond as the Nation’s force in readiness. 

• Employs integrated combined arms across the range of military operations, and can operate as 

part of a joint or multinational force. 

• Provides forces and specialized detachments for service aboard naval ships, on stations and for 

operations ashore. 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

30

• Conducts Marine Expeditionary Force 

(MEF)-level joint forcible-entry operations 

from the sea and develops amphibious landing force capabilities and doctrine. 

• Conducts complex expeditionary operations 

in the urban littorals and other challenging 

environments. 

• Leads joint and multinational operations 

and

enables interagency activities. 

Nested among these publications, the 

Marine Corps Capstone Concept provides 

a bridge from vision and strategy to the 

service-specific operating concepts and 

capabilities envisioned in Marine Corps 

Operating Concepts for a Changing Security Environment (MOC). Numerous 

supporting and enabling concepts, articulated separately from the MOC, amplify 

key ideas. This body of work is meant to 

inspire discussion, debate and innovation 

in order to guide capability development. 

The MOC describes how Marine Corps 

forces must be organized, based, trained, 

and equipped for:

• Forward Presence and Security Cooperation 

• Crisis Response and Conflict

• Amphibious Operations

• Sustained Littoral Operations

• Stability Operations and Counterinsurgency

The Marine Corps is the Nation’s 

naval expeditionary, combined-arms 

force-in-readiness. We have throughout 

our history routinely task-organized agile and adaptable forces, adjusted operations and developed innovative tactics — 

such as amphibious assault and seabasing 

— to meet the demands of the Nation. 

The multi-mission capability the Marine 

Corps delivers addresses the full range of 

military operations. This proficiency includes maintaining a persistent forward 

presence, providing response to a variety of man-made and natural crises and 

engaging in irregular and conventional 

conflict. 

In the 21st Century our adversaries 

are driven to dispersed employment of 

conventional and irregular tactics and 

techniques in combination — hybrid conflict — as a means of countering the United States’ pre-eminence in conventional 

capabilities. Concurrently, diplomatic 

challenges to overseas access are on the 

rise, even as global climate changes and 

population shifts to the urban littorals 

magnify the likelihood of humanitarian 

disasters. Furthermore, the speed of modern communications has given global 

visibility to events in remote locations, often generating calls for U.S. action. 

Given our core competencies described in the Commandant’s Vision and 

Strategy, the Marine Corps is uniquely 

suited to address the strategic challenges 

of the 21st Century. The MOC describes 
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

31

how the Marine Corps can make modest 

refinements in organizing, training and 

equipping Marines, further enhancing the 

Corps’ capability and capacity to better 

perform in the anticipated range of distributed and sea based operations. These 

refinements are focused on enhancing the 

organizational “sweet spot” of the Marine 

rifle company and increasing the Marine 

Air Ground Task Force’s (MAGTF’s) ability to operate across the range of military 

operations. While the MAGTF is made up 

of key supporting elements, it is the rifle 

company that remains the primary organizational focus of Marine Corps operations. In an uncertain future, it is the rifle 

company, with the MAGTF’s supporting 

elements, that enables the Marine Corps 

to meet tomorrow’s challenges.

In December 2007, the Commandant approved a force-employment concept that specifically addresses how the 

Marine Corps will support geographic 

combatant commanders’ engagement 

activities in their areas of responsibility. 

Known as The Long War Concept, this 

force-employment concept articulates 

how the Marine Corps plans to organize, 

train and equip forces to constitute multicapable MAGTFs that will be as adept at 

operations on the low end of the range 

of operations as they are at the high end. 

Capitalizing on the increased capabilities 

afforded by the growth in Marine Corps 

end strength to 202,000, the Commandant has directed that the Marine Corps 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

32

be postured to support a greater forward 

presence abroad. In addition to three 

Marine Expeditionary Units (MEUs), 

the Marine Corps will organize and deploy Security Cooperation MAGTFs (SC 

MAGTFs) that are specifically tailored to 

training partner-nation security forces 

and alleviating some of the underlying 

drivers of instability. Sourced from regionally focused units in the MEFs and 

supported by initiatives that increase 

regional understanding within the operating forces, SC MAGTFs will be organized based upon specific requirements 

requested by the geographic combatant 

commanders and validated by the Global 

Force Management process. SC MAGTFs

will be deployed from Continental U.S. 

(CONUS) and Outside CONUS (OCONUS) main operating bases to support 

specific training and operational events 

and re-deployed to home station at the 

end of the event. In addition to conducting security cooperation activities, the SC 

MAGTFs will be capable of providing crisis-response capabilities commensurate 

with their organic capabilities. 

Additionally, SC MAGTFs will be capable of supporting Navy efforts to conduct security cooperation activities along 

the littoral regions of the world. Capitalizing on the strength of the Navy-Marine 

Corps team, SC MAGTFs are expected to 

deploy on Navy Global Fleet Stations that 

are forward deployed to provide a more 

persistent maritime presence to support 

the combatant commanders. The Long 

War Concept calls for three MEUs, reinitiation of the Unit Deployment Program, and SC MAGTF detachments as 

required to support Global Fleet Stations, 

and land-based security cooperation activities in all of the geographic combatant 

commanders’ areas of responsibility.

 describes an approach to the operational art the maximizes the tactical 

flexibility offered by true decentralized 

mission accomplishment, consistent with 

commander’s intent and facilitated by 

improved command and control, intelligence, logistics, and fires capabilities. 

will be reliant on increased access to, and 

organic control of, functional support, as 

well as excellence at the individual, squad, 

and platoon levels. As such, it builds on 

the results of experimentation and capability development to provide battalion 

commanders the critical link between 

operational planning and squad level tactical execution. 

will drive the full range of combat 

development activities towards delivering fully tested and operationally ready 

military capabilities to the company commander. Graduated experimentation, indepth Wargaming, and unbiased analysis 

will guide the identification and integration of solutions that address all facets of 

capability development, across battlefield 

functions, Phase 0 through Phase 5 of the 

joint campaign.

Informed by the numerous documents mentioned above, the MOC 3rd 

edition will be published in early 2009.
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

33
chapter 2

part 2 

organization
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

35

The MAGTF is the Marine Corps’ 

principal organization for conducting 

missions across the spectrum of military 

operations. MAGTFs provide combatant commanders or joint task force commanders with scalable, versatile expeditionary forces able to respond to a broad 

range of crisis and conflict situations. 

They are balanced, combined-arms force 

packages containing organic command, 

ground, aviation and sustainment elements. A single commander leads and coordinates this combined-arms team from 

peacetime training through all phases of deployment and employment. MAGTF teams 

live and train together, further increasing 

their cohesion and fighting power.

MAGTF Capabilities

The naval character of MAGTFs enhances their global mobility, lethality and 

staying power. Embarked aboard amphibious ships, forward-deployed MAGTFs 

provide U.S. civilian and military leaders 

with the ability to do the following:

• Move forces into crisis areas without revealing their exact destinations or intentions

• Provide continuous presence from secure 

sea bases in international waters

• Provide immediate national response in 

support of humanitarian and natural-disaster relief operations

• Provide credible but non-provocative 

combat power over-the-horizon of a potential adversary for rapid employment as the initial response to crisis

• Support diplomatic processes for peaceful crisis-resolution before employing immediate response combat forces

• Project measured degrees of combat power ashore — at night and under adverse weather 

conditions, if required

• Introduce additional forces sequentially into a theater of operations

• Operate independent of established airfields, basing agreements, and over-flight rights

Marine Air Ground Task Force (Magtf)

Joint Task Force

MEF

Major Warfighting

20-90K

MEB (MEF Fwd)

Small-Scale Contingency 

Response

3-20K

MEU (SOC)

Forward Deployment

1.5-3K

SPMAGTF

Special Purpose 

Missions

Fleet Anti Terrorism Support Teams

Marine Security Guard Dets

Bases/Stations

Command Element

Ground 

Combat Element

Aviation

Combat Element

Logistics

Combat Element
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

36

• Conduct combat operations ashore, using 

inherent combat service support that is 

brought into the theater of operations

• Enable the introductions of follow-on 

MAGTF or joint and/or combined forces 

by securing staging areas ashore

• Operate in rural and urban environments, 

and during hostile nuclear, biological and 

chemical situations

• Withdraw rapidly at the conclusion of operations or remain to help restore stability to 

the affected areas

• Plan and commence execution of a mission 

within six to 48 hours of receiving a 

warning order

Along with the MAGTF, other special-purpose forces introduce additional 

depth to Marine Corps capabilities in 

support of joint operations. 

MAGTF Composition

The Marine Corps task-organizes for 

combat in accordance with its statutory 

mandate to provide forces of combined 

arms, including aviation by forming integrated, combined-arms MAGTFs. As 

the name indicates, MAGTFs are task-organized and specifically tailored by mission, as well as for rapid deployment by 

air and/or sea. However, no matter what 

their mission or mode of deployment, 

MAGTFs comprise four deployable elements, supported by a fifth element — 

our bases and stations.

Command Element (CE): The CE

contains the MAGTF headquarters and 

other units that provide intelligence, 

communications and administrative support. As with all other elements of the 

MAGTF, the CE is scalable and task-organized to provide the command, control, 

communications, computers, intelligence 

(C4I) and joint interoperability necessary for effective planning and execution 

of operations.

Ground Combat Element (GCE): 

The GCE is task-organized to conduct 

ground operations to support the MAGTF 

mission. This element includes infantry, 

artillery, reconnaissance, armor, light 

armor, assault amphibian, engineer and 

other forces as needed. The GCE can vary 

in size and composition. It can consist 

of a light, air-transportable battalion; a 

relatively heavy and mechanized unit that 

includes one or more Marine divisions; 

or another type of Marine Corps ground 

combat unit that meets the demands of a 

particular mission.

Aviation Combat Element (ACE): 

The ACE conducts offensive and defensive air operations and is task-organized 

to perform those functions of Marine 

aviation required to support the MAGTF 

mission. This element is formed around 

an aviation headquarters with appropriate air-control agencies, combat, combat support and combat service support 

units. The ACE can vary in size and composition from an aviation detachment 

of specifically required aircraft to one or 

more Marine Aircraft Wings (MAWs).
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

37

Logistics Combat Eement (LCE): 

The LCE is task-organized to provide the 

full range of combat logistics functions and 

capabilities necessary to maintain the continued readiness and sustainability of the 

MAGTF as a whole. It is formed around a 

combat service support headquarters and 

may vary in size and composition from 

a support detachment to one or more 

Marine Logistics Groups (MLGs).

Types of MAGTFs

Four types of MAGTFs can be taskorganized: the Marine Expeditionary 

Force, Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) and Special Purpose.

Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF): 

The MEF is the principal Marine Corps 

warfighting organization, particularly 

during larger crises or contingencies. It 

is normally commanded by a lieutenant 

general. A MEF can range in size from less 

than one to multiple divisions and aircraft 

wings, together with one or more Marine 

Logistics Groups. MEFs are capable of both 

amphibious operations and sustained 

operations ashore in any geographic environment. With appropriate augmentation, the MEF command element is 

capable of performing as a Joint Task 

Force (JTF) headquarters. 

MEFs are the primary “standing 

MAGTFs” that exist in peacetime, as well 

as wartime. Currently, the Marine Corps 

is organized with three standing MEFs, 

each with a Marine Division (MARDIV), MAW and MLG. The 1st Marine 

Expeditionary Force (I MEF) is located at 

bases in California and Arizona. The 2nd 

Marine Expeditionary Force (II MEF) is 

located at bases in North Carolina and 

South Carolina. The 3rd Marine ExpediLocations of MEFs, Maritime Prepositioning Ship Squadrons, and MARFORS

Marine Forces Reserve

Marine Forces ATLANTIC

Marine Forces PACIFIC 

I MEF II MEF III MEF

US Forces Korea

MPS-3 Guam

MPS-2 Diego Garcia

MPS-1 active in

Mediterranean

USNORTHCOM United States Northern Command

USSOUTHCOM United States Southern Command

USAFRICOM United States Africa Command

USCENTCOM United States Central Command

USEUCOM United States European Command

USPACOM United States Pacific Command

USPACOM United States Pacific Command

Locations of MEFs, Maritime Prepositioning Ship Squadrons, and MARFORS
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

38

tionary Force (III MEF) is based in Okinawa, mainland Japan, and Hawaii. 

MEFs are the “reservoirs” from 

which all other Marine Corps capabilities 

emanate. Marine component headquarters, MARFORCOM or MAR-FORPAC, 

may form smaller MAGTFs from these 

MEFs. A MEF will normally deploy in 

echelon and will designate its lead element as the MEF (Forward).

Marine Expeditionary Brigade 

(MEB): The MEB is the mid-sized MAGTF 

(up to 20,000 Marines) that is normally 

commanded by a brigadier general. The 

MEB provides transitional capability between the forward-deployed MEU and the 

MEF, which is our principal warfighting 

force. A reinforced infantry regiment, a 

composite Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 

and a Combat Logistics Regiment (CLR) 

comprise a notional MEB. The command 

element of the MEB is embedded within 

the command element of its parent MEF; 

the deputy MEF commander serves as the 

MEB commander.

MEBs provide supported combatant 

commanders with a scalable, warfighting 

capability across the spectrum of military 

operations. As an expeditionary force, it is 

capable of rapid deployment and employment via amphibious shipping (normally 

17 amphibious ships), strategic air/sealift, geographic or maritime pre-positioning force assets, or any combination 

thereof. With 30 days of accompanying 

supplies, MEBs can conduct amphibious 

assault and sustained operations ashore 

in any geographic environment. 

A MEB can operate independently 

or serve as the forward echelon of a MEF. 

With additional MEF Command Element 

augmentation, a MEB is also capable of 

acting as a JTF headquarters. Currently, 

the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd MEB Command Elements are embedded within the CEs of I, 

II and III MEF, respectively.

Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) 

and Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), or MEU 

(SOC): Forward-deployed MEUs and /or 

MEU(SOC)s embarked aboard Amphibious Ready Groups (ARG) operate continuously in the areas of responsibility of 

various unified combatant commanders. 

The MEU(SOC) is differentiated from 

the MEU by the addition of a Marine 

Special Operations Company (MSOC) 

provided by Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MEU + MSOC = 

MEU(SOC)). Overall, these units provide 

the President and the unified combatant 

commanders a forward-deployed, flexible sea-based Marine Air Ground Task 

Force (MAGTF), capable of conducting: 

Amphibious operations, specific subsets 

within the Range of Military Operations 

(ROMO), supporting operations, to include enabling the introduction of follow on forces, and, when the associated 

MARSOF is embarked, Special Operations missions. MEUs are characterized by 

their sea-based forward presence, expeditionary nature, ability to plan and respond 

to crises, combined arms integration, and 

their interoperability with joint, combined 

and special operations forces. 
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

39

The MEU is commanded by a colonel and deploys with 15 days of accompanying supplies. Prior to deployment, a 

MEU undergoes an intensive six-month 

training program, focusing on its Mission 

Essential Task List (METS) and interoperability with a MARSOF. The training 

culminates with a thorough evaluation 

and certification as “Operationally Ready 

to Deploy” and “interoperable” with its 

associated MARSOF. 

The organic capabilities of the 

MEU are:

• Amphibious Operations:

- Amphibious Assault

- Amphibious Raid

• Range of Military Operations:

- Humanitarian Assistance 

- Non-Combatant Evacuation Operations

- Security, Stability, Transition and Reconstruction Operations

• Supporting Operations:

- Joint and Combined Operations

- Theater Security Cooperation Activities

- Airfield and Port Seizures

- Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel

- Aviation Operations from 

Expeditionary Sites

- Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure

- Long Range/Deep Reconnaissance

The additional capabilities provided by the MEU (SOC) are:

• Special Operations:

- Direct Action

- Special Reconnaissance

Special Purpose MAGTF (SPMAGTF): 

A SPMAGTF is task-organized to accomplish a specific mission, operation, 

or regionally focused exercise. As such, 

SPMAGTFs can be organized, trained 

and equipped to conduct a wide variety 

of expeditionary operations, ranging from 

crisis-response to training exercises and 

peacetime missions. They are designated 

as SPMAGTF with a mission, location or 

exercise name, for example, “SPMAGTF 

(X),” “SPMAGTF UNITAS” or “SPMAGTF 

Afghanistan.” Their duties cover the spectrum from security cooperation to noncombatant evacuation and disaster relief 

to major combat operations.

Unique Unified 

Commander Support

A combatant commander or subordinate joint force commander may also 

require Marine forces that do not possess 

all elements of a MAGTF. These forces 

are not given a MAGTF designation. Examples are installation security forces, 

engineer and medical support teams for 

humanitarian operations, deployments 

for training, law enforcement operations 

and mobile training teams. In these cases, 

forces will be designated by the name of 

the senior headquarters having operational control, for example, 1st Combat 

Engineer Battalion (Rein), 1st Marine 

Division.

Other Special-Purpose 

Marine Corps Forces 

The MAGTFs discussed above 

provide a continuum of capabilities to 

support naval, unified combatant commander and national requirements. These 

MAGTFs are joined by other unique Marine forces to help the Corps deal with a 

full range of conventional and unconventional threats and assignments.
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

40

Global Response Forces

 Marine Corps Global Response 

Forces (GRFs) are standing contingency 

forces that can respond rapidly to emerging crises anywhere in the world. COMMARFORPAC and COMMARFORCOM 

maintain GRFs in continuous states of 

readiness, enabling JFCOM to provide 

combatant commanders with the appropriate GRF as soon as the SecDef directs.

Marine GRFs provide great versatility: 

they can be immediately employed from 

U.S. Navy amphibious ships, fly into a 

crisis area and marry-up with equipment 

from the Maritime Prepositioned Force 

or conduct security and enabling functions as the lead element of a MEF. Additionally, the Chemical and Biological 

Incident Response Force (CBIRF) — a 

unique Marine Corps capability — maintains a high-state of readiness to respond 

to asymmetric enemy action at home 

or abroad.

MAGTF Sustainability

A fundamental characteristic of a 

MAGTF is its ability to operate for extended periods as an expeditionary 

force, relying on internal resources for 

sustainment. All MAGTFs have inherent sustainability that allows them to be 

self-sufficient for planned periods. Larger MAGTFs have a deeper, broader, and 

more capable organic support capability. 

Different-sized MAGTFs deploy with sufficient accompanying supplies to support 

joint operations.

MAGTFs can augment their organic 

sustainability by using external support 

from Navy organizations, host-nation 

support (HNS) agreements, inter-service 

support agreements (ISSAs) and in-theater cross-service support.

Maritime Prepositioning Force 

(MPF)

The Maritime Prepositioning Force 

is a strategic power-projection capability 

that combines the lift capacity, flexibility, and responsiveness of surface ships 

with the speed of strategic airlift. Strategically positioned around the globe, the 

Maritime Prepositioning Ships (MPS) of 

the MPF provide Geographic Combatant 

Commanders (GCC) with persistent forward presence and rapid crisis response. 

The MPF is organized into three Maritime Prepositioning Ships Squadrons 

(MPSRON): MPSRON-1, based in the 

Mediterranean; MPSRON-2, based at 

Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean; and 

MPSRON-3, based in the Guam-Saipan 

area. These three interoperable MPSRONs 

are each designed to couple with a Fly-In 

Echelon (FIE) to support the rapid closure of a Marine Expeditionary Brigade 

(MEB). The MPF can also support smaller 

or larger Marine Air-Ground Task Forces 

(MAGTFs) by employing as few as one 
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

41

or as many as 16 MPS. The MPS include 

government-owned ships and long-termleased ships operated under charters to 

Military Sealift Command (MSC).

When needed, these ships move to 

a crisis region and offload either in port 

or in-stream offshore. Offloaded equipment and supplies are then married up 

with Marines arriving at nearby airfields. 

The end result is a combat-ready MAGTF 

rapidly established ashore, using minimal 

reception facilities. The MAGTF combat 

capability provided by MPF supports 

GCC military operations that defeat adversaries and win wars, but has also supported regional crises that require rapid 

and effective humanitarian assistance and 

disaster relief.

MAGTF deployment planning and 

training is conducted by the Commanding Generals, II Marine Expeditionary 

Force (MEF) –– MPSRON-1; I MEF –– 

MPSRON-2; and III MEF –– MPSRON-3. 

The Commander, Marine Corps Logistics Command (MARCORLOGCOM) is 

responsible for obtaining, prepositioning, and maintaining MPF supplies and 

equipment, primarily through the Marine 

Corps Support Facility at Blount Island 

(MCSF-BI) in Jacksonville, Florida. This 

is conducted in conjunction with operating forces through a maintenance-cycle 

program at MCSF-BI. 

The MPF program is in transition. 

From 2008-2010, Marine Corps and Navy 

headquarters will transfer three Large 

Medium Speed Roll-on Roll-off vessels 

(LMSRs) from the Military Sealift Command’s Surge Fleet to the MPF, while divesting older and less-capable Maersk 

Class vessels. The LMSRs will enhance 

the ability of the current MPF program 

to lift our armored rolling stock as well as 

preposition more of the MEB’s equipment 

and ammunition afloat. Each LMSR has 

the same gross square-foot capability as 

nearly three of the Maersk MPS and has a 

maximum draft comparable to other MPS. 

This increase in the MPF’s capability will 

reduce force-closure time and demands 

on the Air Mobility Command (AMC), in 

the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), to close the FIE during 

operations. It also facilitates interoperability and seabasing experimentation and 

provides a bridge between the MPF and 

MPF (Future) programs. The first newbuild LMSR in the Marine Corps MPF 

Program was loaded with equipment and 

supplies in September 2008.

Marine Corps Prepositioning 

Program – Norway (MCPP-N)

Marine Corps Prepositioning Program-Norway enhances all Geographic 

Combatant Commanders operational 

responsiveness by providing mission-tailored, prepositioned war reserve materiel 

that supports global Marine Corps expeditionary operations. MCPP-N’s prepositioned war reserve materiel is stored 

in six caves and two airfields throughout Norway and is available for rapid 

preparation and marshalling to aerial/

sea/rail ports of debarkation in support 

of deploying MAGTFs. Forward-prepositioned war reserve materiel reduces 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

42

reaction time and CONUS-based lift 

requirements.

Supporting Establishment

Marine Corps bases and stations, often referred to as the fifth element of the 

MAGTF, consist of those personnel, bases and activities that support the Marine 

Corps’ operating forces. This infrastructure consists primarily of 15 major bases 

and stations in the United States and Japan, as well as the personnel, equipment 

and facilities required to operate them.

The supporting establishment also 

includes the Marine Corps Recruiting 

Command, Marine Corps Combat Development Command, and Marine Corps 

Logistics Command as well as all training 

activities and formal schools. Additionally, the supporting establishment includes those civilian activities and agencies that support the Marine Forces.

U.S. Marine Corps Forces,

Special Operations Command

U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Special 

Operations Command (MARSOC) is the 

Marine Corps component of U.S. Special 

Operations Command (USSOCOM). As 

such, MARSOC trains, organizes, equips 

and, when directed by the Commander 

USSOCOM, deploys task-organized, 

scalable and responsive Marine Corps 

Special Operations Forces (MARSOF) 

worldwide in support of combatant commanders and other agencies.

In October 2005, the Secretary of 

Defense directed the Marine Corps to 

form a service component of USSOCOM 

and begin providing forces to the Commander of USSOCOM. Formally established on February 24, 2006, MARSOC 

is headquartered at Camp Lejeune, North 

Carolina, and will ultimately comprise approximately 2,600 Marines, Sailors and civilian employees. MARSOC includes five 

subordinate units: Marine Special Operations Advisor Group (MSOAG), 1st and 

2d Marine Special Operations Battalions 

(MSOBs), Marine Special Operations 

Support Group (MSOSG) and the Marine 

Special Operations School (MSOS).

A Marine Corps Major General commands MARSOC with a supporting staff 

designed to be compatible in all functional areas with both USSOCOM and Headquarters, Marine Corps (HQMC). The 

MARSOC headquarters is responsible 

for identifying Marine special operationsunique requirements; development of 

MARSOF tactics, techniques, procedures 

and doctrine; and execution of assigned 

missions in accordance with designated 

conditions and standards.

From August 2006 to late 2008, 

MARSOC units conducted 51 operational overseas deployments, continuously 

deploying Marine Special Operations 

Teams (MSOTs) and Marine Special Operations Companies (MSOCs) in support 

of all of the Geographic Combatant Commanders. Missions have included conducting combat operations in Afghanistan and training foreign SOF in Africa, 
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

43

Asia, South America, Central Asia and 

the Middle East.

Marsoc Core Capabilities

MARSOC is tasked by SOCOM with 

providing Marines who are specially 

trained in the following primary SOF 

disciplines:

• Direct Action (DA) — short-duration 

strikes and other small-scale offensive actions taken to seize, destroy, capture, recover 

or inflict damage in denied areas

• Special Reconnaissance (SR) — actions 

conducted by SOF to obtain or verify, by 

visual observation or other collection methods, information concerning the capabilities, intentions and activities of an actual or 

potential enemy 

• Foreign Internal Defense (FID) — participation by civilian and military agencies of 

a government in any of the programs taken 

by another government to free and protect 

its society from subversion, lawlessness and 

insurgency

• Counterterrorism (CT) — offensive measures taken to prevent, deter and respond to 

terrorism

MARSOC also provides support for 

the following: 

• Unconventional Warfare (UW) — a broad 

spectrum of military and paramilitary 

operations, normally of long duration, predominantly conducted by indigenous or surrogate forces organized, trained, equipped, 

supported and directed in varying degrees 

by an external source

• Information Operations (IO) — use of offensive and defensive information means to 

degrade, destroy, and exploit an adversary’s 

information-based process while protecting 

one’s own

MARSOC Subordinate Units 

MARSOC includes five subordinate 

units: Marine Special Operations Advisor 

Group (MSOAG), 1st and 2d Marine Special Operations Battalions (MSOBs), Marine Special Operations Support Group 

(MSOSG) and the Marine Special Operations School (MSOS). See chart on page 

61 for more details.
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

44

The United States Marine Corps is 

organized as a “force-in-readiness,” one 

that is able to support a wide range of national military requirements. The service 

is divided into three broad categories: 

• Headquarters Marine Corps

• Operating forces

• Reserves

Headquarters Marine Corps

Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps 

(HQMC) consists of the Commandant of 

the Marine Corps and those staff agencies 

that advise and assist him in discharging his responsibilities prescribed by law 

and higher authority. The Commandant 

is directly responsible to the Secretary of 

the Navy for the total performance of the 

Marine Corps. This includes the administration, discipline, internal organization, 

training, requirements, efficiency and 

readiness of the service. The Commandant also is responsible for the operation 

of the Marine Corps material support 

system.

Operating Forces

Operating forces — the heart of the 

Marine Corps — comprise the forwardpresence, crisis-response, and fighting 

power that the Corps makes available 

to U.S. unified combatant commanders. 

The Marine Corps has permanently established three combatant level service 

components in support of Unified Commands with significant Marine forces assigned: U.S. Marine Forces Command 

(MARFORCOM), Marine Forces Pacific 

(MARFORPAC) and Marine Forces, Special Operations Command (MARSOC). 

The Commander, U.S. Marine Forces 

Command (COMMARFORCOM) is 

assigned to the Commander, U.S. Joint 

Forces Command (USJFCOM). He provides the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Force

(II MEF) to USJFCOM. Likewise, the 

Commander, U.S. Marine Forces, Pacific (COMMARFORPAC) is assigned to 

the Commander, U.S. Pacific Command 

(US-PACOM). COMMARFORPAC provides I and III MEFs to USPACOM. 

The Commander Marine Forces Special 

Operations Command (COMMARSOC) 

is assigned to the Commander, Special 

Operations Command (USSOCOM). He 

provides assigned forces to USSOCOM. 

These assignments reflect the peacetime disposition of Marine Corps forces. 

Marine forces are apportioned to the 

remaining geographic combatant commands — the U.S. Southern Command 

(USSOUTHCOM), U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), U.S. European 

Command (USEUCOM), U.S. Central 

Command (USCENTCOM), U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM), and U.S. 

Forces Korea (USFK) — for contingency 

planning and are provided to these commands when directed by the Secretary 

of Defense.

Reserves

The United States Marine Corps 

Reserve is responsible for providing 

trained units and qualified individuals 

How the Marines are Organized
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

45

to be mobilized for active duty in time of 

war, national emergency or contingency 

operations, and to provide personnel 

and operational tempo relief for active 

component forces in peacetime. Marine 

Corps force expansion is made possible 

by activation of the Marine Corps Reserve, which, like the active forces, consists of a combined-arms force with 

balanced ground, aviation and logistics 

combat support units. Organized under 

the Commander, Marine Forces Reserve 

(COMMARFORRES), units of this command are located at 185 training centers 

in 47 states, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia. Over the past several 

years, the Reserve Component has been 

closely integrated with the Active Component under the Marine Corps’ Total 

Force concept. The Reserves provide 

individuals and specific units to augment and reinforce active capabilities. 

The ethos for Marine Forces Reserve is 

mobilization and combat readiness. This 

ensures the men and women of Marine Forces Reserve stand ready, willing 

and able to answer the Nation’s call at 

home and abroad at a moment’s notice.
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

46

Counsel for the 

Commandant

Chaplain of 

the marine corps

Sergeant Major of 

the Marine Corps

marine corps combat

development command

marine corps

national capital

Region command

Marine Corps

Recruiting Command

Marine Barracks 

Washington, D.C.

DC, plans, policy 

& operations

DC, Combat development 

& integration

Health Services

Legislative Assistant to 

the Commandant

Staff Judge Advocate to 

the marine corps

DC, Manpower & 

Reserve Affairs

DC, Installations 

& Logistics

Command, Control, Communications 

& Computers

Intelligence

Dc, Aviation

DC, Programs 

& Resources

Inspector General of 

the Marine Corps

Public Affairs

Safety Division

Assistant Commandant 

of the Marine Corps

Director 

Marine Corps Staff

Commandant of the Marine 

Corps Washington, D.C.

Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps

marine corps 

systems command

Assistant Secretary of 

the navy research 

development & acquisition
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

47

U.S. Marine Corps National Capital Region Structure

tecom

MCRD san diego MCRD parris island

Henderson Hall

tacon for 

force protection

of conus forces

coordinating authority

for AT /fp only)

marine corps base,

quantico

commanding general, 

MCNCR

marine barracks,

Washington, DC 8th & I

commandant of the 

marine corps

Education 

Command, quantico, VA

Marine Corps 

Recruit Depot, 

Parris Island, SC

Marine Corps 

Recruit Depot,

San Diego, CA

Training 

Command, Quantico, VA

MAGTF Training 

Command, 

29 Palms, CA

deputy commandant,

combat development & Integration

Deputy Commandant, Combat Development & Integration*/

CG Marine Corps Combat Development Command**/

Commander Marine Forces Strategic Command***/ 

CG Marine Corps Installations National Capital Region

Joint Capabilities

assessment and

integration

directorate*

capabilities 

Development 

directorate*

Marine Corps 

Base, 

Quantico, VA**

Training and 

Education 

Command**

MARINE CORPS

Warfighting 

Lab**

operations

analysis

division*

deputy cg

MCCDC**

Chief of Staff

MCCDC**

Chief of Staff

marforstrat***

strategic

vision group*
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

48

2d

Marine Division

2d

Marine Aircraft Wing

2d Marine

Logistics group

2d Marine 

Expeditionary Brigade

22d, 24th, 26th

Marine Expeditionary 

Units

chemical biological

incident response force

Marine Corps 

Air Station

Cherry Point, NC

Marine Corps 

Air Station

Beaufort, SC

Marine Corps 

Air Station

New River, NC

Marine Corps 

Air facility 

quantico, va

US Marine 

Corps Forces

command

US Marine Corps 

training and 

advisory group

II Marine Expeditionary Force

Marine Corps 

Logistics Base

Albany, GA

marine corps 

support facility

Blount Island, fl

Marine Corps Base

Camp Lejeune, NC

US Marine 

Corps Bases 

Atlantic

Marine Corps 

Installations 

east

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Command, Marine Corps Bases Atlantic

marine corps security 

force regiment
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

49

Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, NC

II Marine Expeditionary Force

II Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group

8th Communication Battalion

2d Intelligence Battalion

2d Radio Battalion

2d Force Reconnaissance Battalion

2d Marine Expeditionary Brigade

22d Marine Expeditionary Unit 

24th Marine Expeditionary Unit 

26th Marine Expeditionary Unit 

2d Marine Logistics Group

Marine Logistics Group Headquarters

Combat Logistics Regiment 27

Combat Logistics Battalion 22

Combat Logistics Battalion 24

Combat Logistics Battalion 26

Combat Logistics Regiment 2

Combat Logistics Battalion 2

Combat Logistics Battalion 6

Combat Logistics Battalion 8

Combat Logistics Regiment 25

2d Maintenance Battalion

2d Supply Battalion

2d Medical Battalion

Combat Logistics Company 21 (Cherry Point, NC)

Combat Logistics Company 23 (Beaufort, SC)

8th Engineer Support Battalion

2d Dental Battalion

2d Marine Division

Headquarters Battalion

2d Marine Regiment

1st Battalion (1/2)

2d Battalion (2/2)

3d Battalion (3/2)

2d Battalion, 9th Marines (2/9)

6th Marine Regiment

1st Battalion (1/6)

2d Battalion (2/6)

3d Battalion (3/6)

3d Battalion, 9th Marines (3/9)

8th Marine Regiment

1st Battalion (1/8)

2d Battalion (2/8)

3d Battalion (3/8)

1st Battalion, 9th Marines (1/9)

10th Marine Regiment

1st Battalion (1/10)

2d Battalion (2/10)

3d Battalion (3/10)

5th Battalion (5/10)

2d Tank Battalion

2d Assault Amphibian Battalion

2d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion

2d Combat Engineer Battalion

2d Reconnaissance Battalion

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Command Ground Units
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

50

2d Marine Aircraft Wing

Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, NC

Headquarters, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing

Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 2

Marine Aircraft Group 14

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 14

Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare 

 Squadron 1

Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare 

 Squadron 2

Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare 

 Squadron 3

Marine Tactical Electronic Warfare 

 Squadron 4

Marine Attack Training Squadron 203

Marine Attack Squadron 231

Marine Attack Squadron 223

Marine Attack Squadron 542

Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 252

Marine Light Attack Helicopter 

 Squadron 467

Marine Air Control Group 28

Marine Tactical Air Control Squadron 28

Marine Wing Communications 

 Squadron 28

Marine Air Control Squadron 2

Marine Aircraft Support Squadron 1

Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 2

2d Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion

Marine Wing Support Group 27

Marine Wing Support Squadron 274

Air Traffic Control Detachment

Bogue Airfield, NC

Marine Wing Support Squadron 271

 Air Traffic Control detachment

Marine Corps Air Station New River, 

NC

Marine Aircraft Group 26

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 26

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 261

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 264

Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 266

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 366

Marine Light Attack Helicopter 

 Squadron 167

Marine Medium Tiltrotor Training 

 Squadron 204

Marine Aircraft Group 29

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 29

Marine Medium Tiltrotor

 Squadron 162

Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 263

Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 365

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 464

Marine Light Attack Helicopter 

 Squadron 269

Marine Helicopter Training 

 Squadron 302

Marine Wing Support Squadron 272

Air Traffic Control Detachment

Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, SC

Marine Aircraft Group 31

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 31

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 115

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 251

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 312

Marine All Weather Fighter Attack

Squadron 224

Marine All Weather Fighter Attack

Squadron 533

Marine Wing Support Squadron 273

Air Traffic Control Detachment

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Command Aviation Units
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

51

I Marine Expeditionary 

Force

1st 

Marine Division

3d

Marine Aircraft Wing

1st Marine 

Logistics Group

1st 

Marine Expeditionary 

Brigade

11th, 13th, 15th

Marine Expeditionary 

Units

31st Marine Expeditionary Unit

Marine Corps Base

Camp Pendleton, Calif.

Marine Air ground task 

force training center 

(mAGTFTC)

29 Palms, ca

Marine Corps Base

Camp Butler

Marine Corps 

Air Station

Iwakuni

Marine Corps 

Air Station

Futenma

Marine Corps Base

Camp Fuji

Marine Corps 

Air Station

Miramar, Ca

Marine Corps 

Logistics Base

barstow, Ca

Marine Corps 

Installations

West

Fleet Marine 

Forces, Pacific

US Marine Corps 

Forces, Pacific

US Marine Corps 

Bases, Pacific

US Marine Corps 

Forces,

Korea

Force Assigned 

As Needed

Force Assigned 

As Needed

III Marine Expeditionary 

Force

Marine Corps Bases

Japan

Marine Corps Base

Hawaii

Marine Corps 

Air Station

Yuma, Az

Marine Corps 

Air Station

Camp Pendleton, Ca

3d

Marine Division

1st

Marine Aircraft Wing

3d Marine Logistics 

Group

3d Marine Expeditionary 

Brigade

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific, Korea
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

52

Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, CA

I Marine Expeditionary Force

I Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group

9th Communication Battalion

1st Intelligence Battalion

1st Radio Battalion

1st Force Reconnaissance Battalion

1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade

11th Marine Expeditionary Unit

13th Marine Expeditionary Unit

15th Marine Expeditionary Unit

1st Force Reconnaissance Company

1st Marine Logistics Group

Marine Logistics Group Headquarters

Combat Logistics Regiment 17

Combat Logistics Battalion 11

Combat Logistics Battalion 13

Combat Logistics Battalion 15

 

Combat Logistics Regiment 1

Combat Logistics Battalion 1

Combat Logistics Battalion 5

Combat Logistics Battalion 7

Combat Logistics Regiment 15

1st Maintenance Battalion

1st Supply Battalion

1st Medical Battalion

Combat Logistics Company 11 (Miramar, CA)

Combat Logistics Company 16 (Yuma, AZ)

7th Engineer Support Battalion

1st Dental Battalion

1st Marine Division

1st Marine Regiment

1st Battalion (1/1)

2d Battalion (2/1)

3d Battalion (3/1)

1st Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment (1/4)

5th Marine Regiment

1st Battalion (1/5)

2d Battalion (2/5)

3d Battalion (3/5)

2d Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment (2/4)

11th Marine Regiment

1st Battalion (1/11)

2d Battalion (2/11)

5th Battalion (5/11)

3d Assault Amphibian Battalion

1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion

1st Combat Engineer Battalion

1st Reconnaissance Battalion

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific & Korea, Ground Units
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

53

Twentynine Palms, CA

I MEF assets located at the 

Marine Corps Air-Ground 

Combat Center

7th Marine Regiment

1st Battalion (1/7)

2d Battalion (2/7)

3d Battalion (3/7)

3d Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment (3/4)

11th Marine Regiment

3d Battalion (3/11)

1st Tank Battalion

3d Assault Amphibian Battalion

 D Company

Combat Logistics Battalion 7

3d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion

III MEF assets located at 

Marine Corps Base Kaneohe Bay

3d Marine Regiment

1st Battalion (1/3)

2d Battalion (2/3)

3d Battalion (3/3)

1st Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment (1/12)

Combat Logistics Battalion 3

3d Radio Battalion

Marine Corps Base Kaneohe Bay, HI

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific & Korea, Ground Units
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

54

Okinawa, Japan

III Marine Expeditionary Force

III Marine Expeditionary Force Headquarters Group

7th Communication Battalion

3d Intelligence Battalion

3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade

31st Marine Expeditionary Unit

3d Marine Logistics Group

Marine Logistics Group Headquarters

Combat Logistics Regiment 37

Combat Logistics Battalion 31

 

Combat Logistics Regiment 3

Combat Logistics Battalion 3 (Hawaii)

Combat Logistics Battalion 4

Combat Logistics Regiment 35

3rd Maintenance Battalion

3rd Supply Battalion

3rd Medical Battalion

Combat Logistics Company 36

9th Engineer Support Battalion

3rd Dental Battalion

3d Marine Division

4th Marine Regiment

 4 Unit Deployment Program Battalions

12th Marine Regiment

 Echo Battery, 2d Battalion, 12th Marines (2/12)

 3d Battalion, 12th Marines (3/12)

 Combat Assault Battalion

3d Force Reconnaissance Battalion

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific & Korea, Ground Units
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

55

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific & Korea, Aviation Units

1st Marine Aircraft Wing

Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, 

Okinawa, Japan

Marine Aircraft Group 36

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 36

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 262

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron – 

(Unit Deployment Program)

Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron – 

(Unit Deployment Program)

Marine Aerial Refueler Transport 

Squadron 152

Marine Air Control Group 18

Marine Tactical Air Command Squadron 18

Marine Wing Communications Squadron 18

Marine Air Control Squadron 4

Marine Air Support Squadron 2

Marine Wing Support Squadron 172

Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, 

Okinawa, Japan

1st Marine Aircraft Wing

Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 1

 Marine Wing Support Group 17

Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, 

Japan

Marine Wing Support Squadron 171

Marine Aircraft Group 12

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 12

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron / Navy Fighter Attack 

Squadron – (Unit Deployment Program)

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 

 All Weather 242

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron – 

All Weather (Unit Deployment Program)

Marine/Navy Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron – 

(Unit Deployment Program)

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron – 

(Unit Deployment Program)

Marine Corps Base Kaneohe Bay, HI

Marine Aircraft Group 24

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 362

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 363

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 463

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 24
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

56

3d Marine Aircraft Wing

Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, CA

Headquarters, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing

Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 3

Marine Aircraft Group 11

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 11

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 314

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 323

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 

 All Weather 121

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 

 All Weather 225

Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 101

Marine Aerial Refueler Transport 

Squadron 352

Marine Aircraft Group 16

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 16

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 161

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 163

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 165

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 166

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 462

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 465

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466

Marine Wing Support Group 37

Marine Wing Support Squadron 373

Marine Air Control Group 38

Marine Wing Communications Squadron 38

Marine Tactical Air Control Squadron 38

Marine Wing Support Squadron 3

Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, AZ

Marine Aircraft Group 13

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 13

Marine Attack Squadron 211

Marine Attack Squadron 214

Marine Attack Squadron 311

Marine Attack Squadron 513

Marine Wing Support Squadron 371

Marine Air Control Squadron 1

Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics 

 Squadron 1

Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 401

Marine Corps Air Station 

Camp Pendleton, CA

Marine Aircraft Group 39

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 39

Marine Light Attack Helicopter 

Squadron 169

Marine Light Attack Helicopter 

Squadron 267

Marine Light Attack Helicopter 

Squadron 367

Marine Light Attack Helicopter 

Squadron 369

Marine Helicopter Training Squadron 164

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 268

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 364

Marine Helicopter Training Squadron 303

Marine Wing Support Squadron 372

3d Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion

Twentynine Palms, CA

(I MEF Assets located at the Marine Corps 

 Air-Ground Combat Center)

Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 3

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1

Marine Wing Support Squadron 374

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific & Korea, Aviation Units
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

57

U.S. Marine Forces Reserve

4TH MARINE

DIVISION

NEW ORLEANS, LA

4TH MARINE

AIRCRAFT WING

NEW ORLEANS, LA

Marine

Logistics

Mobilization 

COMMAND

KANSAS CITY, MO

3D CIVIL

AFFAIRS GROUP

CAMP PENDLETON, CA

3D ANGLICO

LONG BEACH, CA

4TH CIVIL

AFFAIRS GROUP

WASHINGTON, DC

4TH ANGLICO

WEST PALM BEACH, FL

INTELLIGENCE

SUPPORT BATTALION

NEW ORLEANS, LA
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

58

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve Ground Units

4th Marine Division

New Orleans, LA

Headquarters, Headquarters Battalion

Tampa, FL

Headquarters, 4th Assault 

 Amphibian Battalion

Fort Worth, TX

Headquarters, 14th Marines

San Bruno, CA

Headquarters, 23d Marines

Kansas City, MO

Headquarters, 24th Marines

Worcester, MA

Headquarters, 25th Marines

San Diego, CA

Headquarters, 4th Tank Battalion

Bessemer, AL

Headquarters, Anti- Terrorism Battalion

Mobile, AL

Headquarters, 3d Force 

 Reconnaissance Company

San Antonio, TX

Headquarters, 4th Reconnaissance Battalion

Kaneohe Bay, HI

Headquarters, 4th Force Reconnaissance 

Company

Camp Pendleton, CA

Headquarters, 4th Light Armored 

 Reconnaissance Battalion

Baltimore, MD

Headquarters, 4th Combat

Engineer Battalion

Broken Arrow, OK

TOW Training Company

4th Marine Logistics Group 

New Orleans, LA

Headquarters, 4th FSSG

Marietta, GA

Headquarters, Headquarters and Service Battalion

Portland, OR

Headquarters, 6th Engineer 

Support Battalion

Red Bank, NJ

Headquarters, 6th Motor Transport Battalion

Newport News, VA

Headquarters, 4th Supply Battalion

Charlotte, NC

Headquarters, 4th Maintenance Battalion

Ft. Lewis, WA

Headquarters, 4th Landing Support Battalion

Brooklyn, NY

Headquarters, 6th Communications Battalion

San Diego, CA

Headquarters, 4th Medical Battalion

Marietta, GA

Headquarters, 4th Dental Battalion

Camp Pendleton, CA

4th MLG Forward-West

Camp Lejeune, NC

4th MLG Forward-East
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

59

U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve Aviation Units

4th Marine Aircraft Wing

Marine Aircraft Group 41 Ft. Worth, TX

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112 Ft. Worth, TX

Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 234 Ft. Worth, TX

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 41 Ft. Worth, TX

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 142 NAS Atlanta, GA

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 774 NAS Norfolk, VA

Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 773 (-) NAS Atlanta, GA 

Detachment, A NAS/JRB Belle Chasse, LA

Marine Aircraft Group 46 Headquarters MCAS Miramar, CA

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 769 Edwards AFB, CA

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 764 Edwards AFB, CA

Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 775 (-) MCB Camp Pendleton, CA

Marine Fighter Training Squadron 401 MCAS Yuma, AZ

Marine Wing Support Group 47 Headquarters Mt. Clemens, MI

Marine Wing Support Squadron 471 Minneapolis, MN

Marine Wing Support Squadron 472 NAS Willow Grove, PA

Marine Wing Support Squadron 473 MCAS Miramar, CA

Marine Air Control Group 48 Headquarters Great Lakes, IL

Marine Wing Communication Squadron 48 Great Lakes, IL; MCAS Miramar, CA

Marine Tactical Air Command Squadron 48 Great Lakes, IL

Marine Air Support Squadron 6 Westover AFB, MA; MCAS Miramar, CA

Marine Air Control Squadron 23 Aurora, CO

Marine Air Control Squadron 24 Great Lakes, IL; Ft. Worth, TX

4th Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion Pasadena, CA

Marine Aircraft Group 49 Headquarters NAS/JRB Willow Grove, PA

Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 452 Stewart ANGB, NY

Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 772 NAS/JRB Willow Grove, PA

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 774 NAS Norfolk, VA

Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 773 (-) NAS/JRB Willow Grove, PA

Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 49 Stewart ANGB, NY

Detachment, HMLA-775 Johnstown, PA (ADCON to MAG-49)

Detachment A NAS/JRB New Orleans, LA
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

60

U.S. Marine Corps Installations & Logistics

Marine Corps 

Logistics Base

albany, GA

Commanding general,

Marine Corps 

logistics Command

deputy commandant, 

installations & logistics

Commanding General

Eastern Recruiting Region

Parris Island, sC

Marine Corps 

Logistics Base

Barstow, Ca

marine corps

support facility Blount Island

Jacksonville, FL

Commanding General

Western Recruiting Region

San Diego, Ca

1ST MCD 4th MCD 6th MCD 9th MCD 8th MCD 12th MCD

U.S. Marine Corps Recruiting Command
chapter 2 CONCEPTS AND ORGANIZATION

61

MARSOC

MARSOC

Headquarters 

Company

3rd Marines 

Special 

Operations 

Battalion

4th Special 

Operations 

Battalion

Intelligence 

Company

Logistics 

Company

1st Marine 

Special 

Operations Bat- talion

Marine 

Special 

Operations 

School

Marine 

Special 

Operations 

Support 

Group

2nd Marine 

Special 

Operations Bat- talion

Marine 

Special 

Operations 

Advisor 

Group

Support Company
chapter 3
chapter 3 programs

Introduction

The Marine Corps primary role in the 21st Century is to be the Nation’s “expeditionary force-in-readiness” that provides combined-arms operating forces, including 

integrated aviation and logistical components, for service as part of naval, joint and 

combined forces world wide. Marine forces magnify the projection of U.S. naval forces, 

ensuring that they remain influential in peacetime, compelling in crisis and decisive in 

war. As we look ahead, we will return to our roots of a lighter, faster, hard-hitting, expeditionary and sea-based Marine Corps that is reliant on agility, shock and surprise.

Congress has responded generously to our requests. In this, innovation and fiscal 

responsibility are hallmarks of the Corps. We continue to invest scarce resources to 

restore combat capability and enhance our Marines’ readiness at home and in overseas operating areas. We are constantly monitoring our total investment requirements 

against the changing demands of the situation. 

In our ground and aviation programs we continue to test, develop and procure 

dual-use, and employ emerging technology. Our focus is on the Individual Marine’s 

ability to carry out the tasks at hand. 

Chapter Three of this 2009 edition of Concepts and Programs provides information on our programs of record and our major end-item equipment, which will ensure 

that today’s and tomorrow’s Marines have what they need to get the job done. 

63

PROGRAMS
chapter 3

part 1

The Individual Marine
chapter 3 programs

65

Introduction

The “Individual Marine” is the heart and soul of the Nation’s Marine Corps. The 

individual Marine is trained, educated and equipped to operate across the broadest 

spectrum of missions and tasks — a “two-fisted” fighter highly effective in major contingencies but equally capable in irregular warfare. 

While today’s Marines are superbly in every clime and place, it is a leadership obligation to Marines and the Nation to prepare for tomorrow’s today. Even as we grow the 

force to 202,000 Marines, however, the individual Marine will remain our number-one 

priority. And, while a Marine’s focus in the field is on excellence and mission, the focus 

of our programs is on the “tools” needed for operational success: our Marines deserve 

nothing but the best we can afford. For example, working closely with the Army and 

Air Force, we are developing systems that have increased effectiveness, efficiency, lighter weight and increased, and are integrated with other equipment.

Our commitment to our Marines extends to those who have returned with severe 

injuries. The Wounded Warrior Regiment is key to continuing to provide and facilitate 

assistance to wounded, ill or injured Marines and their family members, throughout 

the phases of recovery. Likewise, we look to our Marine families as a source of strength 

for our Marines, particularly when they are deployed overseas. In short, we take care 

of our own.
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

66

The Marine Expeditionary Rifle 

Squad (MERS) is a program charged 

with applying a system’s engineering approach to equipping a Marine rifle squad, 

our most fundamental warfighting unit. 

The focus of the program is to view the 

Marine rifle squad in a holistic manner 

— one in which the squad comprises a 

whole much more effective than the sum 

of its individual members. The integration and configuration management of all 

components that are worn, carried and 

consumed by the squad will increase lethality, mobility, and flexibility of infantry 

forces. MERS is the steward of the Marine 

rifle squad’s suite of equipment and works 

with all the Program Managers at Marine 

Corps Systems Command to optimize and 

integrate the rifle squad’s equipment. The 

program has founded the Squad Integration Facility. The facility provides a venue 

to engineer, evaluate, and try the capabilities and limitations of all equipment 

in development and under consideration 

for procurement that will be delivered to 

the infantry squad. This dynamic facility 

utilizes a human factors lab, equipment 

prototyping and modification workshop, 

a mobility platform integration area, and 

an infantry immersive environment focused on equipment evaluation in a foreign environment to accomplish equipment modernization and integration 

initiatives. Human factors and ergonomics are applied to the physical integration 

of the infantry squad’s equipment. The 

physiological and performance impacts 

of fielding new equipment creates a constant set of trade-offs between weight and 

volume management, comfort, usability, 

simplicity, lethality, survivability, mobility, sustainment, and training given that it 

must perform in combat in any clime and 

place. MERS will highlight these trade 

offs and refine solutions that incorporate 

the capabilities of the Marine rifle squad 

as an integrated system. 

MERS works closely with the MCCDC

 MERS Capabilities Development Officer 

and the HQMC PP&O MERS Infantry 

Advocate and the triad has established an 

Integrated Infantry Working Group in order to ensure that the operating forces are 

equipped with optimal solutions. Infantry 

Battalion surveys are continuously conducted in theater and post deployment in 

order to identify trends and issues with 

infantry equipment. In 2008, a thermal 

analysis was conducted with 1/9 and 3/4 

to determine exactly how hot Marines 

were actually getting in the Iraq summer 

heat conditions while on patrols. 

Integration efforts during 2009 

include:

• Integration of all the items worn on a Marine’s 

head into an optimized system of components 

of a headborne system

• Improvements in weapon weight characteristics and integration with equipment that 

is worn. 

• Integration and human factor improvements 

to MTV and Scalable Plate Carrier

• C2 / Situational Awareness integration and 

information presentation methods

• Squad electrical power analysis and power/

data distribution on the Marine

• Integration and anthropometry of the Marine 

Marine Expeditionary Rifle Squad (MERS)
chapter 3 programs

67

in mobility platforms under development 

such as JLTV and MPC.

• Integration of the various unique items carried in the billet positions within the squad

Human factors efforts during 2009 

include:

• Squad Weight Study – Isolate what equipment and weight degrades a Marines 

performance when conducting physically 

demanding tasks in a fatigued and nonfatigued state. 

• Thermal Analysis – Determine what the 

actual core temperature, heart rate, and 

respiratory rate are during operations with 

squads in various environmental and operational conditions. 

The MERS Program Office is also 

the Enhanced Company Operations 

(ECO) Equipping Coordinator for Marine Corps Systems Command. MERS 

also coordinates the R&D efforts for the 

long term objective of Distributed Operations. Infantry Battalions are nominated 

by the MEF’s for ECO equipping and 

new equipment training. ECO equipment is currently listed in the battalions 

table of equipment. The robust C2 package combined with appropriate training 

will empower the non-commissioned officers (NCO) at the fire team and squad 

level and increase the battalion’s capabilities across all six warfighting functions. 

At the end of FY-2008, 15 of the 36 active and reserve Infantry Battalions had 

been equipped with ECO items that were 

available.
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

68

The Marine Corps stood up the Marine Enhancement Program (MEP) in 

1989 in response to congressional guidance for the Corps to establish programs 

dedicated to improving the “lethality, 

comfort and survivability” of the individual Marine. The primary focus of the program is on low-cost, low-visibility materiel solutions that can be rapidly fielded 

and that typically do not compete well 

against larger, high-profile items in the 

Department of the Navy’s budget. 

The MEP thus ensures improvements 

for the individual Infantryman are identified and quickly transitioned into practical 

solutions. This goal is achieved through 

an accelerated acquisition process that 

takes advantage of commercially available 

technologies to provide lighter, more improved “infantry items” to the Marines as 

quickly as possible. Depending upon when 

the item is needed, its complexity, risk and 

cost, it can take from 90 days to two years 

to test, modify as appropriate, procure and 

field the item to the Marine. 

Items procured and fielded under the 

MEP seek to reduce the load, increase the 

survivability, enhance the safety and improve the lethality of the individual Marine Infantryman across the spectrum of 

operational environments. MEP systems 

are intended primarily for the Marine 

Infantryman within the Ground Combat 

Element (GCE). When applicable, MEP

items have also transitioned to support 

other Military Occupational Specialties 

(MOSs) within the GCE (e.g., Combat 

Engineers and Artilleryman) and across 

the Marine Air Ground Task Force (e.g., 

Supply, Maintenance, Administration and 

Ordnance). In recent years, the MEP has 

funded several critical programs, including: Combat Shotgun, Field Tarp, FlameResistant Organizational Gear, Modular 

Tactical Vest, Multi-Purpose Bayonet, 

Rifle Combat Optic, Individual Water Purification Block I (Miox Pen), Enhanced 

Hearing Protection, Grip Pod for the 

M16, Handheld Flashlight and 3-Seasons 

Sleep System. 

The MEP Working Group includes 

core representatives from Plans, Policies 

and Operations, Marine Corps Combat 

Development Command and Marine 

Corps Systems Command. Nominations for the MEP initiatives come from 

Marines via the website, email and the 

Advocate, or through review of the U.S. 

Army’s Soldiers Enhancement Program 

(SEP) for capabilities matching a Marine Corps need. Nominated capabilities 

must focus on Commercial-Off-TheShelf or Non-Developmental Items that 

can be executed quickly. The 2009 MEP

priority list includes: M16A4/M4 RCO

Optic Mount Enhancement; Improved 

Eye Protection; Small Unit Leaders Tactical Notebook; Fire-Suppression System; 

Sniper Concealment Suit; Magazine Follower; Grip Pod for the M203; Safety Blank 

Fire Adapter; Sling Keeper for the M203; 

Data Capture Pen; Wire Cutters; Individual Water Purification Block II; and 

Cooling Vest.

Marine Enhancement Program (MEP)
chapter 3 programs

69

Description

The Infantry Automatic Rifle (IAR) 

program seeks to replace the current 

M249 Squad Automatic Weapon (SAW) 

in all infantry, reconnaissance and 

Light Armored Reconnaissance squads. 

The IAR will be a non-developmental, 

5.56mm automatic rifle that is lighter, 

more durable, and more reliable than 

the M249 SAW. 

Operational Impact

Use of the automatic rifle will 

significantly enhance the automatic 

rifleman’s maneuverability and displacement speed, while providing the 

ability to suppress or destroy targets of 

most immediate concern to the fire team.

Program Status

The IAR program entered the system 

development and demonstration phase 

during 2nd Qtr FY 2008 following a successful Milestone B decision. A Milestone 

C decision is expected during 4th Qtr 

FY2009, after which the program will enter into the production and deployment 

phase. Initial operational capability is 

scheduled to be achieved during 1st Qtr 

FY 2011 and full operational capability is 

scheduled to be achieved during 1st Qtr 

FY 2012.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity 30 12

Developer/Manufacturer:

Systems from multiple contractors will be 

used during FY 2009 Verification Testing 

II, the results of which will support the decision that selects the Marine Corps’ IAR.

Systems from the IAR contractor that will 

be used during FY 2010 Initial Operational 

Test and Evaluation.

Infantry Automatic Rifle (IAR)
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

70

Description

The M16A4 rifle and an M4 carbine 

are the two weapons that satisfy the capability requirements of the Modular Weapon System (MWS) program. An M1913 

Rail Adapter System (RAS) replaces the 

upper hand guards and incorporates 

a removable rear-carrying handle that 

were standard on M16A2 rifles. The RAS 

provides the capability to mount various accessories, such as a modified M203 

launching system, high-intensity flashlights and infrared laser illuminators, as 

well as optics. The MWS M4 carbine variant is selectively fielded to Marines whose 

billet and/or mission requires the use of 

the shorter carbine.

Operational Impact

The MWS significantly improves the 

ability to mount various accessories and 

will enhance accuracy, target detection, 

and engagement capabilities in both day 

and night conditions.

Program Status

Fielding of the MWS began in FY 

2003. An increase in the Approved Acquisition Objective (AAO) due to complete replacement of M16A2 rifles Marine Corps-wide has extended fielding 

through fiscal year 2010. The AAO is 

now approximately163,002 M16A4 rifles 

and approximately 77,502 M4 carbines.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity 35,203 10,000

Developer/Manufacturer:

M4: Colt Manufacturing Company, Inc., 

Hartford, CT

M16A4: Fabrique National Military Industries, Columbia, SC

Modular Weapon System (MWS)
chapter 3 programs

71

Description

The AN/PVS-14, Monocular Night 

Vision Device (MNVD) is a lightweight 

optical night vision device with 3rd generation image intensifier technology. The 

AN/PVS-14 can be used as a hand-held 

pocket scope. It can also be worn with 

a head, helmet, or weapon mount. The 

Individual Weapon Night Sight–Image 

Intensified (IWNS I2) is an individual 

imaging device capable of acquiring targets at night with increased recognition 

certainty when used in conjunction with 

the Rifle Combat Optic (RCO–AN/PVQ31A/B) variants. IWNS I2 is mountable 

on all versions of the M16 and M4 series 

weapons equipped with integral MILSTD-1913 rail systems. The IWNS I2 is 

an in-line image intensifying clip-on 

night sight.

Operational Impact

The monocular style of the AN/PVS14 allows the Marine to maintain night 

eye adaptation in one eye while using the 

night vision device with the other eye. 

The AN/PVS-14 can be used in climates 

ranging from -49 to +123 Fahrenheit thus 

providing the Marine night vision capability in virtually any climate. The IWNS 

I2 clip-on device allows the Marine Infantryman to quickly transform the RCO

into a night optic sight, keeping the RCO

permanently mounted on the rifle. This 

provides an additional night sight capability within the Marine Infantry Squad.

Program Status

The total of 121,000 MNVDs have been procured through 

FY 2007 with deliveries extending 

to FY 2009. The IWNS I2 contract 

was awarded in 4th Qtr FY 2007 for the approved acquisition objective of 8,051 systems. Deliveries began in 2nd Qtr FY 2008 

and extend through fiscal year 2009. 

Procurement Profile: FY2009

AN/PVS-14: 15,040

IWNS I2: 5,051

Developer/Manufacturer:

AN/PVS-14: ITT Industries Inc., 

Roanoke, VA

IWNS I2: Insight Technology, 

Londonderry, NH

Image Intensifier Systems
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

72

Description

The AN/PEM-1 is a Class 2 laser device that emits a highly collimated beam 

of visible light for precise zeroing. This 

system facilitates zeroing of I2 sights, 

thermal weapon sights, and laser aiming 

devices. The AN/PEM-1 has a low power 

laser setting that is useful when performing weapon bore sighting during daylight, 

low light and darkness conditions. 

The AN/PEQ-16A is a Class 3b laser 

device that provides a highly collimated 

beam of infrared energy for weapon 

aiming and an adjustable focus infrared 

beam for target illumination. The AN/

PEQ-16A also has a white light illuminator that provides target identification 

and illumination without the use of night 

vision devices.

The HPLP (IZLID) is a Class 4 infrared laser pointer and illuminator for 

use with night vision or infrared sensitive camera systems. The beam is adjustable from tight pinpoint to a wide flood 

beam with a quick twist of the lens. A

multi-position switch allows the laser to 

operate at 3 different power levels: LOW 

(500mW); HIGH (900mW); and PULSE

(1000mW@304Hz).

The AN/PSQ-18A Grenade Launcher 

Day Night Sight Mount (GLDNSM) is an 

enhanced aiming device designed to enable the Marine to rapidly and precisely 

fire the M203 40mm grenade launcher in 

daylight, low light, and night conditions.

Operational Impact

The AN/PEM-1 (LBS) enables Marines to quickly and accurately establish 

or reconfirm battle site zero (BZO) to 

weapons without consuming ammunition to verify the zero. The LBS is optimized for 5.56mm, 7.62mm, and .50 caliber weapons and their ancillary targeting 

devices (i.e., aiming lights, optical night 

vision, and thermal sights). In the training mode, the LBS will provide Marines 

with a training tool to practice zeroing 

skills. Employment of the LBS will reduce 

ammunition consumption associated 

with zeroing, and will expedite the mission interchange of sights and targeting 

devices between weapons.

The AN-PEQ-16A will provide increased accuracy for every Marine by 

providing a laser aiming capability and 

the ability to illuminate targets in low 

light and night conditions when using a 

night vision device, a visible aiming light 

and an illumination capability to Marines 

that do not possess a night vision capability, and a visible white light that will allow 

the Marines to identify/illuminate targets 

in a low light environment.

The HPLP (IZLID) gives the Marine the option of using a pinpoint target pointer or a wide flood beam with 

the quick twist of a switch and allows the 

Marines to use three different power 

levels, low, high and pulse.

The AN/PSQ-18A GLDNSM provides Marine grenadiers increased 

first or second round accuracy to within 

five meters.

Laser Targeting and Illumination Systems
chapter 3 programs

73

Program Status

Procurement of an additional 

2,251 LBS systems occured during 

FY 2008. Procurement of 45,728 AN/

PEQ-16As began in FY 2007 and will 

extend through FY 2008 with fielding 

scheduled to begin second quarter of 

FY 2009. A total of 27 HPLP systems 

were procured in fiscal year 2006 

with an additional 720 systems in fiscal year 2008 due to urgent need requirements to support Operation Iraqi 

Freedom. An additional 501 AN/PSQ18A GLDNSMs were procured (for a 

total of 5,322) and fielding is continuing in FY 2009.
chapter 3

part 2 

Command & Control (C2) / 

Intelligence, Surveillance, 

and Reconnaissance (ISR) 
chapter 3 programs

75

Introduction

Leading-edge technologies and systems are dramatically increasing the tactical 

“reach” of the Individual Marine, which is no longer limited by the range of his rifle or 

the distance he can throw a hand grenade. Indeed, operations at the squad level and 

Individual Marine — the “pointed end of the spear” — can have now far-reaching operational-level if not strategic impacts. The need is thus growing for enhanced commandand-control capabilities, which include communications, intelligence, surveillance and 

reconnaissance, to network operational relationships from the headquarters to the Individual Marine on the ground or in the air. For example, we are fielding additional 

equipment to infantry battalions to enable Individual Marines to fight and win on the 

distributed and non-linear battlefield.

The Marine Corps Command & Control (C2) Harmonization Strategy incorporates joint integrating concepts and C2 mandates and articulates our goal of delivering an end-to-end, fully integrated, cross-functional capability to include forward-deployed and reach-back functions. The strategy’s goal is a seamless capability that crosses 

warfighting functions and supports the Individual Marine from the supporting establishment at home to our Marines in contact with the enemy, taking the best of emerging 

capabilities and joint requirements to build a single solution. Our C2 Harmonization 

Strategy will also increase our capability to train our staffs through MAGTF Integrated 

System Training Centers.

A critical first step in this direction is the ongoing development of the Common 

Aviation Command and Control System (CAC2S). CAC2S provides a complete modernization replacement for the C2 equipment of the Marine Air Command and Control System (MACCS) which is nearing the end of its service life. CAC2S replaces single 

mission, stove piped military specification, legacy systems while providing commonality in training and logistics support. CAC2S fulfills joint net-ready capability standards 

required of all DoD C2 systems and remedies the operational, technical, and performance deficiencies of the existing MACCS.

The Marine Corps continues to increase its ISR capabilities through the use of an 

enterprise approach known as the Marine Corps ISR Enterprise (MCISR-E) — resulting in a fully integrated architecture compliant with joint standards for data interoperability. MCISR-E will provide networked combat information and intelligence down 

to the squad level across the range of military operations. To ensure Marines have access to these new capabilities, our MAGTF C2 systems feed combat operation centers 

with information from wide-field-of-view persistent surveillance systems, traditional 

ISR systems such as our family of Unmanned Aircraft Systems and unattended ground 

sensors, and non-traditional collection assets such as Ground-Based Operational 

Surveillance System. 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

76

The programs discussed in this section will enable MAGTF commanders to 

exercise effective command and control 

and conduct ISR operations. In addition, these programs support the ability 

of MAGTFs to participate in or lead joint 

and multinational operations. Importantly, they will ensure that Individual 

Marines understand their commanders’ 

intent and can carry out complex operations — in peacetime, crisis and war — 

that safeguard vital U.S. interests, citizens 

and friends. 
chapter 3 programs

77

Description

The Distributed Common Ground 

System–Marine Corps (DCGS-MC), in 

compliance with the Department of Defense DCGS Family of Systems concept, 

is a service-level effort to migrate select 

USMC Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) processing and exploitation capabilities into a single, integrated 

net-centric baseline. As the Processing, 

Exploitation, Analysis and Production 

component of the Marine Corps ISR Enterprise, DCGS-MC will comprise functional capability sets that support Marine 

intelligence analysts across the Marine 

Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) by 

making organic and external all-source 

ISR data more visible, accessible and understandable.

The DCGS-MC concept originated 

with the DCGS Mission Area Initial Capabilities Document Joint Requirements 

Oversight Council Memorandum 001-

03, dated 6 January 2003, which established the overarching requirements for a 

collection of net-centric capable systems 

that will contribute to joint and combined 

warfighter needs for ISR support. Each 

service was directed to pursue a coordinated developmental path based on the 

implementation of common enterprise 

standards and services consistent with 

the Department of Defense’s net-centric 

vision. The DCGS Integration Backbone 

(DIB) is the basic building block for interoperability between the Services’ 

DCGS programs. The DCGS DIB is currently managed by a separately chartered 

DIB Management Office that directs dayto-day developmental efforts in coordination with the Army, Navy, Marine Corps 

and Special Operations Command. The 

DCGS program offices have oversight 

from the Office of the Under Secretary of 

Defense (Intelligence).

Operational Impact

DCGS-MC will migrate selected ISR

processing and exploitation capabilities, 

resulting in increased unit- and enterprise-level capacities for handling sensor 

data, streamlining the production of finished intelligence information and products, while providing enhanced management of finished intelligence products. 

Program Status

The DCGS-MC program is proceeding as an Acquisition Category III program with Commander, Marine Corps 

Systems Command designated as the program’s Milestone Decision Authority. The 

program entered the technology development phase on 5 November 2008 and will 

fully leverage the developmental efforts 

of its sister Services’ DCGS programs, as 

their own developmental efforts are fully 

underway. The program acquisition strategy is based on an incremental development path optimized to rapidly introduce 

government and commercial technologies, 

enterprise standards, and modular hardware components in order to minimize 

costs and program risk. The program will 

subsume the Tactical Exploitation Group 

(TEG) and Topographic Production Capability (TPC) programs during FY10 as 

part of the Increment 1 development. 

Distributed Common Ground 

System–Marine Corps (DCGS-MC) 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

78

Marine Corps Intelligence is evolving 

from an assortment of partially connected 

units and systems into an enterprise that 

incorporates all Marine Corps ISR assets 

and functions. When fully implemented, 

the MCISR-E will provide each component element with access to the shared 

awareness, data, resources, and expertise 

of the enterprise as whole. The enterprise 

will also be networked with Marine Air 

Ground Task Force command and control, 

facilitating the use of operational reporting 

and non-traditional ISR data by elements 

of the MCISR-E and providing for timely 

dissemination and sharing of relevant intelligence with Marine leaders at every 

echelon. Through our enterprise capabilities, Marine Corps ISR also harnesses 

interoperable national, joint and combat 

support agency capabilities to address 

MAGTF requirements while serving as a 

contributing partner to those agencies.

MCISR-E includes all USMC ISR assets and functions, covering the entire 

range of people, doctrine, policy, organizations, training, education, equipment, and 

facilities. Our equipment acquisition strategy initially focuses on the intelligence 

processing, exploitation, analysis and 

production systems within the Distributed Common Ground System–Marine 

Corps (DCGS-MC). Other functions of 

the MCISR-E include persistent ISR and 

actionable intelligence. Persistent ISR provides the means for tasking, direction, and 

collection, while actionable intelligence 

addresses the systems associated with dissemination, utilization and feedback of 

intelligence. Through persistent ISR, we 

will also seek to leverage diverse battlefield sensors that, while not intelligence 

systems, they are capable of providing 

non-traditional ISR support. Within the 

enterprise construct, we are also developing capabilities to enable tactical units to 

collect, report, receive, and use intelligence 

and combat information. This includes 

company-level intelligence cells focused 

on gathering the information, providing 

an initial assessment for the company-specific operational area, and feeding data into 

intel systems for higher level analysis. An 

additional example is the recent initiation 

of the Counter Intelligence/Human Intelligence (CI/HUMINT) enterprise, which 

includes developing tactical questioners 

and tactical debriefers.

The organizational relationships, resources, and systems architecture of the 

MCISR-E provides each element with extensive access to the broad capabilities of 

the enterprise, the means to contribute its 

data and analysis to the enterprise and the 

ability to collaborate across the enterprise. 

By providing common access to situational 

awareness, understanding and predictive 

analysis of the threat and relevant aspects of 

the operating environment, this enterprise 

enables and enhances decision-making by 

leaders at all echelons. The MCISR-E provides an adaptive, flexible ISR framework 

supporting the intelligence requirements 

of a multi-capable MAGTF as it executes 

expeditionary operations against hybrid 

threats in a complex environment.

Marine Corps Intelligence, Surveillance and 

Reconnaissance Enterprise (MCISR-E) 
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The Marine Air Control Group 

provides the Aviation Combat Element 

(ACE) commander with the Marine Air 

Command and Control System (MACCS) 

agencies necessary to exercise command 

and control of aviation assets in support of Marine Air Ground Task Force 

(MAGTF), naval and joint operations. 

These agencies provide the ability to plan, 

coordinate, command and supervise the 

application of the six functions of Marine 

Aviation.

While the MACCS agencies are sustaining existing systems to support today’s combat operations, they are also 

modernizing expeditionary air command 

and control (C2), sensor and weapons capabilities to be fielded between FY 2009 

and FY 2017. The key thrusts of this modernization effort are focused on expeditionary packaging, modern information 

technology and joint integration. 

In conjunction with equipment modernization, Marine Aviation C2 is supporting several initiatives that will bring 

new capabilities and improved doctrine 

and training that will ensure more efficient and effective aviation support to 

expeditionary naval, joint and coalition 

forces. This effort is being guided by the 

Aviation C2 Transformation Task Force 

(C2 TTF) under the guidance of Headquarters Marine Corps Aviation Command and Control (APC). 

Aviation C2 Transformation 

Task Force 

The Deputy Commandants for Aviation and Combat Development chartered 

the Aviation C2 TTF in November 2002 

to ensure the effective introduction of the 

Aviation C2 family of systems (FoS) into 

the operating forces. The Marine Corps 

has programmed the FoS fielding between 

FY 2009 and FY 2017. The cornerstone of 

the Aviation C2 FoS, the Common Aviation C2 System (CAC2S), will reach Initial Operational Capability (IOC) in FY 

2010. Next, networked ground-based 

sensors and unmanned aerial vehicles 

are scheduled to reach IOC between FY 

2010 and FY 2011. The C2 TTF provides 

a proactive mechanism for Headquarters 

Marine Corps advocates, expeditionary 

force development organizations, acquisition commands, supporting establishment activities and operating forces to 

formulate and implement changes to 

Doctrine, Organization, Training, Materiel, Leadership, Personnel and Facilities 

(DOTMLPF). The C2 TTF’s membership 

includes operating force and supporting 

establishment stakeholders.

MACCS-X 

To support testing and combat development of future Aviation C2, the Marine 

Corps established the MACCS-X Operational Development Team (ODT) in July 

2005. The mission of MACCS-X ODT

is to provide developmental and operaAviation Command and Control 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

80

tional test support, evaluate the concept 

of employment for the transformation 

of the MACCS and validate DOTMLPF 

concepts and recommendations.

Marine Aviation C2 Vision

The vision for Aviation C2 is the development of a system that contains expeditionary multi-functional C2 nodes 

able to perform the full array of aviation C2 functions throughout the range 

of military operations. Our system must 

seamlessly integrate with all existing and 

future C2 systems and fully support the 

MAGTF and Joint Force Commanders 

from the demands of the initial 72 hours 

of battle to the follow on demands of 

Phase 4 operations. As we proceed, we 

will transform incrementally, replacing 

our existing capability with the most capable, effective and responsive systems 

that technology, resources and personnel 

can instantiate.
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Description

The Common Aviation Command 

and Control System (CAC2S) will provide a complete and coordinated modernization of the equipment of the Marine Air Command and Control System 

(MACCS). CAC2S will eliminate current 

dissimilar systems and provide the Aviation Combat Element with the necessary 

hardware, software and facilities to effectively command, control and coordinate 

air operations while integrated with naval 

and joint command and control. CAC2S 

will be comprised of standardized modular and scalable tactical facilities, hardware, and software that will increase the 

mobility of the MACCS. In 2005, the 

Marine Requirements Oversight Council 

chose CAC2S along with Command and 

Control Personal Computer as foundation components of MAGTF C2. This 

decision paves the way for improved integration across the MAGTF. 

Operational Impact

CAC2S, in conjunction with MACCS 

organic sensors and weapons systems, 

supports the tenets of Expeditionary Maneuver Warfare and fosters joint interoperability with the C2 systems. CAC2S will 

replace legacy C2 systems in the following Marine aviation C2 agencies: Tactical 

Air Command Center (TACC), Tactical 

Air Operations Center (TAOC), Direct 

Air Support Center (DASC), Marine Air 

Traffic Control Detachment and Low-Altitude Air Defense Battalion.

Program Status

CAC2S is currently in the final stage 

of restructuring the program with a revised acquisition approach. The approach 

is to initially integrate core Aviation C2 

capabilities to include mobility, situational 

awareness, tactical communications, information dissemination and operational 

flexibility to improve Aviation C2 assault 

and air support performance and effectiveness. This will be followed by integrating mature technologies necessary for the 

CAC2S to meet air defense and control 

and Aviation Combat Element (ACE) battle management requirements. This initial 

increment of CAC2S will replace the functionality of the TACC, DASC and TAOC, 

and will baseline the core information fusion and management function common 

to all increments. Increment II will achieve 

integration between CAC2S and the Air 

Traffic Navigation and Coordination system for Air Traffic Control functionality. 

CAC2S is an Acquisition Category IAC, 

Common Aviation Command and Control 

System (CAC2S)
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Major Automated Information System. 

Description

The AN/TPS-59(V)3 radar system is 

the Marine Corps’ only long-range, 3-D, 

air surveillance, Theater Ballistic Missile (TBM)-capable radar. The AN/TPS59(V)3 radar system is a transportable, 

solid-state L-band radar. It is the Marine 

Air Ground Task Force’s (MAGTF’s) 

principal air surveillance radar and is integrated into the AN/TYQ-23(V)4 Tactical Air Operations Module. It may also 

be configured for operation with the AN/

MSQ-124 Air Defense Communications 

Platform to provide TBM track data to the 

Joint Tactical Information Distribution 

System (the TDL-J link-16 network). The 

radar has become a key component in the 

employment of the Navy’s Cooperative 

Engagement Capability and is the Marine 

Corps’ lead sensor in the development of 

the Composite Tracking Network. 

Operational Impact

The AN/TPS-59(V)3 is optimized to 

detect and track TBMs and air-breathing 

missile and aircraft targets, which constitute serious threats to MAGTF operations. The AN/TPS-59(V)3 will primarily be used to support MAGTF aviation 

during sustained operations ashore and 

as part of a joint theater air and missile 

defense architecture. The radar supports 

the MAGTF commander in Anti-Air 

Warfare operations with en route traffic 

control to a distance of 300 nautical miles 

(nm) and TBM surveillance to 400 nmi. 

The AN/TPS-59(V)3 radar systems have 

been deployed in support of Operation 

Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring 

Freedom.

Program Status

The AN/TPS-59(V)3 is in the sustainment phase of its life cycle. Incorporation of engineering change proposals 

and technical refresh of equipment will 

address ongoing diminishing manufacturing sources and obsolescence issues as 

well as improved capabilities and new interface requirements. A product improvement plan is in place to add capability and 

mobility enhancements.

AN/TPS-59(V)3 Radar System
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Description

Composite Tracking Network (CTN) 

is the adaptation of the U.S. Navy Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) 

modified for Marine Corps use. This network will allow Marine Corps Command 

and Control (C2) agencies to distribute 

composite tracking data and fire-control 

data to C2 nodes and weapon systems. 

CTN is an essential element of the future 

Marine Corps Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence 

architecture.

Operational Impact

CTN will provide the Marine Air 

Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Commander a sensor netting solution that will 

help defend friendly forces from incoming 

aircraft and cruise missiles by correlating 

sensor data from local and remote radars 

in the CEC network. It will provide the 

MAGTF precise, target quality track data 

simultaneously to networked nodes thereby increasing and improving situational 

awareness and battlespace coverage.

Program Status

CTN is developing and testing adaptive layers that interface CTN with the 

Tactical Air Operations Module, Common Aviation Command and Control 

System, and the AN/TPS-59 long-range 

radar. Milestone B was approved 1st Qtr 

FY 2008 and Milestone C was approved 

1st Qtr FY 2009. Initial operational capability is scheduled for 2nd Qtr FY 2010. 

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 2 3

Developer/Manufacturer:

Naval Surface Weapons Center, Crane; 

Crane, IN 

Composite Tracking Network (CTN)
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Description

Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar 

(G/ATOR) is an expeditionary, single 

materiel solution to fill the Multi-Role 

Radar System operational requirements. 

G/ATOR has four incremental deliveries. 

Increment I is a medium-range air surveillance radar used to detect and track 

aircraft, cruise missiles, and unmanned 

aerial vehicles. The system will serve as 

a gap-filler radar by providing threedimensional coverage of those areas out 

of view of the AN/TPS-59 (V) 3. The radar is intended to replace all the missions 

currently associated with the AN/TPS63 and AN/MPQ-62 radars. Increment 

II provides the next-generation ground 

weapon locating radar. The G/ATOR will 

replace the AN/TPQ-46A as the Marine 

Corps hostile indirect-fires target-locating system. The primary mission of the G/

ATOR, employed in the counter-fire role, 

is to locate mortar, artillery and rocket 

threats and provide accurate location information to friendly counter-fire weapons. The secondary role of the counter 

fire G/ATOR is to provide “did hit” data 

to friendly weapon systems for adjust-fire 

and battle-damage assessment. Increment III will improve upon Increment I’s 

air mission capabilities. Enhancements 

include: Advance Combat ID circuitry 

and software (non-cooperative target recognition), advanced ECCM capabilities 

(decoys), Radar Environmental Simulator and Integrated Data Environment capabilities. Increment IV will add air traffic 

control functionality and replace the AN/

TPS-73 radar and the Airport Surveillance Radar portion of the AN/TPN-31A

Air Traffic Navigation, Integration, and 

Coordination System.

Operational Impact

G/ATOR will have the responsiveness needed to detect, identify and track 

enhanced, low-level air-breathing targets, 

as well as indirect-fire threats during the 

execution of Expeditionary Maneuver 

Warfare operations. In addition, the radar 

will be capable of cueing and reporting on 

targets detected within its coverage limits 

to designated air and ground command 

and control agencies. The reduced logistical footprint of the radar will enhance the 

capabilities of the Marine Air Command 

and Control System and artillery regiments in support of all phases of MAGTF 

operations. It will possess the mobility 

required to keep pace with supported 

maneuver elements and will complement the Marine Corps long-range radar, 

the AN/TPS- 59 (V) 3, by providing accurate low-level tracks. The G/ATOR’s 

ground and air mission capabilities give 

the MAGTF commander a unique operational flexibility.

Program Status

G/ATOR is currently in the System 

Development and Demonstration Phase. 

Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar (G/ATOR)
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Description

The Assault Amphibious Vehicle–

Command; Command and Control Upgrade Program (AAVC7 C2 Upgrade) is 

focused on providing an improved command and control (C2) capability to the 

operating forces until the Expeditionary 

Fighting Vehicle reaches its scheduled Full 

Operational Capability (FOC) in 2025. 

The AAVC7 C2 Upgrade Program will 

include replacement of the current antiquated VHF tactical radios with the currently fielded radio systems, integration 

of a UHF Line Of Sight (LOS) and UHF 

Satellite Communications (SATCOM) 

capability, replacement of the obsolete 

vehicle intercommunications system, 

integration of a Blue Force Situational 

Awareness (BFSA) capability, redesign of 

the staff workstations and integration of a 

tactical data network capable of hosting 

applicable Marine Air Ground Task Force 

C2 applications (Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFATDS), and 

the C2 Personal Computer (C2PC)). Additionally the C2 upgrade includes the 

installation of a Auxiliary Power Unit 

(APU) that provides power to the C2 

suite for extended periods without the 

need to idle the AAVC7 engine in support 

of silent-watch operations requirements.

Operational Impact

The last C2 improvements to the 

AAVC7 were fielded in 1994. The AAVC7 

C2 upgrade program will provide the 

supported infantry battalion/regimental 

staffs with an improved C2 capability to 

address the gap that currently exists during amphibious operations and extended 

operations ashore. Specific operational 

improvements are updated tactical radios, 

the addition of a UHF LOS-SATCOM capability, integration of a Battle Force Situational Awareness (BFSA) capability, and 

the integration of a tactical data network 

capable of hosting AFATDS and C2PC. 

These additional capabilities will align the 

AAVC7 with the common network architecture utilized by today’s ground forces 

at the battalion and regiment levels.

Program Status

The AAVC7 C2 Upgrade Program 

was designated an Acquisition Category 

IV (T) program on 4th Qtr FY 2007. Preliminary Design Review (PDR) was conducted 4th Qtr FY 2008, Critical Design 

Review 2nd Qtr FY 2009, and Milestone 

C 4th Qtr FY 2009. Initial Operational 

Capability is planned for FY 2009 and 

Full Operational Capability is planned 

for FY 2010.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 20 50

Developer/Manufacturer:

SPAWAR Systems Center Charleston, SC

Assault Amphibious Vehicle–Command; Command and Control 

Upgrade Program (AAVC7A1 C2 Upgrade)
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Description

The Intelligence Analysis System 

(IAS) Family of Systems (FoS) uses a 

three-tiered approach for receiving, parsing, analyzing and disseminating fused, 

all-source intelligence data. The first tier, 

the Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) 

IAS, is a mobile system that supports the 

MEF Command Element. The second tier, 

the Intelligence Operations Server (IOSv2a or IOSv3), is a team-portable system 

designed to support the intelligence operations of Major Subordinate Commands 

(MSC). The third tier, the Intelligence 

Operations Workstation (IOW), serves as 

the intelligence link for battalions, squadrons and companies to their higher headquarters; it is also capable of operating as 

a stand-alone system. The IAS FoS program utilizes a mature hardware design 

consisting of Commercial-Off The-Shelf 

and Government-Off The Shelf (COTS/

GOTS), Marine Common Hardware 

Suites (MCHS) components and software that is fully interoperable with the 

current Global Command and Control 

System–Integrated Imagery and Intelligence Initiative (GCCS-I3

) baseline. The 

IAS FoS also uses an internally developed 

software program called “MarineLink” 

to fuse disparate data sources into single 

intelligence tracker database repositories 

for increased battlespace awareness. 

Operational Impact

Fielding of the MEF IAS has provided Marine Air Ground Task Force 

commanders with a mobile, all-source, 

intelligence data fusion and dissemination capability. The IOSv2a (Unix) and 

IOSv3 (Windows) give the commander 

at the MSC, Marine Expeditionary Unit, 

regiment and group levels access to timesensitive intelligence data that is crucial 

to the decision making process and the 

conduct of Intelligence Preparation of the 

Battlefield. The IOW is the company, battalion and squadron link to intelligence 

data, using client/server technology to 

“reach back” to higher commands for intelligence information updates. The IOW 

can also function as a stand-alone workstation, operating with certain limitations 

in a disconnected environment. 

Program Status

The MEF IAS is currently in the post 

production/fielding phase of the acquisition process. All systems were fielded to 

the operational forces and receiving Marine Reserve units. The entire IAS FoS was 

refreshed during fiscal year 2006 with the 

next iteration taking place in 2009. The 

MEF IAS is scheduled to transition to the 

DCGS-MC program Increment 2 during 

2012 timeframe. The IOS and IOW portions of the IAS FoS will continue to be a 

separate program of record that migrate 

to a net-centric environment as part of 

the larger DCGS-MC Enterprise.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Software: 1 1 

Service Pack: 1 1 

IAS FoS Refresh 1

Intelligence Analysis System Family of 

Systems (IAS FoS)
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87

The IAS FoS executes periodic hardware 

and peripheral refreshes as per the Program 

Manager Navy Marine Corps Internet/Information Technology refresh schedule. One 

major software fielding and one service pack 

is fielded per fiscal year.

Developer/Manufacturer: MTC Services 

Corporation, Stafford, VA; KnowBiz, 

San Diego, CA; EMA, Charleston, SC; 

and SPAWAR, Charleston, SC

Hardware components: COTS and nondevelopmental items.

Software components: 

Various COTS and GOTS developers 

Key GOTS software developers:

System integration of hardware and 

software: EMA, Charleston, SC; Dynamic 

Tactics for C4ISR Solutions, Charleston, 

SC; L-3 Communications, Virginia Beach, 

VA; SRC, Charleston, SC; and SPAWAR, 

Charleston, SC
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Description

The Joint Surveillance Target Attack 

Radar System (JSTARS) is a long-range, 

air-to-ground surveillance system which 

consists of an airborne element and a 

ground element. The airborne element 

— the E-8C aircraft — contains a large 

phased array radar mounted on the fuselage and multiple operator terminals. Radar data are distributed via an encrypted, 

jam-resistant Surveillance and Control 

Data Link (SCDL) for transmission to 

one of two JSTARS ground systems: the 

Common Ground Station (CGS) or Joint 

Services Workstation (JSWS). The sensor 

suite provides detection and tracking data 

on targets through the use of the Moving 

Target Indicator (MTI), Fixed Target Indicator (FTI) and Synthetic Aperture Radar 

(SAR). FTI and MTI data are used to detect, locate and identify the movement of 

enemy targets, while SAR identifies critical fixed targets such as bridges, harbors, 

airports, buildings or stationary vehicles. 

The CGS is a ground-based receiving and 

processing display system that receives 

JSTARS data directly from the E-8C 

JSTARS aircraft through the SCDL to the 

Ground Data Terminal. Once JSTARS 

data are collected at the ground receive 

site, MTI/FTI/SAR data are sent across 

the Marine Air Ground Task Force Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence network. The CGS 

is also capable of receiving and fusing imagery data from unmanned aerial systems 

directly with JSTARS data, providing an 

enhanced collection processing capability. The JSWS is a functionally equivalent, 

transit cased subset of the CGS. While the 

JSWS can be used in conjunction with a 

dedicated SCDL, it normally receives its 

JSTARS data via a classified network connection or satellite communications feed. 

Operational Impact

The CGS and JSWS support a wide 

range of global missions including wartime battlefield management, peacekeeping operations, the war on drugs and contingency operations. The CGS and JSWS 

are capable of operating in diverse climates 

(geographic and weather conditions) and 

provide an increased level of certainty to 

commanders by providing them with a 

different view of the battlespace prior to 

making decisions. As all-weather, organic 

Marine Corps intelligence assets, the CGS 

and JSWS have played a crucial role on 

the Global War on Terrorism, resulting in 

JSTARS assuming an additional mission 

of Improvised Explosive Device prevention and detection.

Program Status

JSTARS is post-Milestone C, and in 

the Operations and Support phase. The 

Marine Corps has fielded three JSTARS 

CGSs and five JSWSs. Each Marine Expeditionary Force has a CGS and JSWS. 

The remaining two JSWSs are used for 

testing, evaluation and development of 

future MTI capabilities. During FY 2008, 

the Marine Corps JSTARS approved acquisition objective was increased by two 

JSWS systems as a result of the GrowThe-Force initiative. These systems will 

Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System,

Common Ground Station (JSTARS)
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89

be fielded to 1st and 2nd Intelligence Battalions during FY 2009. The program is 

currently conducting two levels of effort: 

maintenance and upgrade of the current 

JSTARS ground systems; and research 

and development of future MTI collection 

capabilities in a net-centric environment 

as part of the DCGS-MC Enterprise.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 2 0

Developer/Manufacturer:

Prime Hardware Integrator: General 

Dynamics Command, Control, 

Communications, and Computers (GC4S), 

Scottsdale, AZ 

Software Integrator: Harris Corporation, 

Melbourne, FL 

Surveillance Control Data Link (SCDL) 

Developer: Cubic Defense Systems, 

San Diego, CA
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Description

The Marine Air Ground Task Force 

(MAGTF) Secondary Imagery Dissemination System (MSIDS) provides organic tactical digital imagery collection, 

transmission and receiving capability 

to the MAGTF Commander. MSIDS is 

comprised of Commercial Off The Shelf 

(COTS) components necessary to enable Marines at all echelons of the Marine Expeditionary Force, including to 

capture, manipulate, annotate, transmit 

and receive images in near-real-time. The 

MSIDS capability resides at the MAGTF 

intelligence sections, ground reconnaissance units, and infantry battalion Scout 

Sniper platoons. MSIDS is currently employed in every location where the Marine Corps conducts military operations. 

Operational Impact

MSIDS provides the only self-contained, hand-held, ground-perspective 

imagery capability to MAGTF units and 

is essential in mission planning and intelligence collection. Other MAGTF near 

real-time imaging systems, such as unmanned aerial systems and the F/A-18 

Advanced Tactical Airborne Reconnaissance System, provide overhead imagery 

that cannot capture the detail and ground 

perspective attainable through MSIDS. 

In asymmetric threat environments — 

where targets of interest are often small, 

highly mobile units such as terrorists or 

guerilla groups — it is imperative that a 

MAGTF be able to identify individuals 

and structures from the ground level. The 

required level of detail is not available 

from aerial sources. Technology insertions via an increment refresh plan provide MSIDS equipped Marines with the 

ability to receive needed technological 

upgrades in a timely manner. 

Program Status

The Marine Corps refreshed the entire MSIDS imagery capability during 

Fiscal Year 2005. The approved MSIDS 

acquisition strategy specifies a refresh 

of one-third of the system’s components 

yearly through a spiral increment of the 

COTS hardware and software components. The Fiscal Year 2009 refresh will replace components of the VEW along with 

continuing the Grow the Force (GTF) 

initiative fielding. The Video Exploitation 

Workstation (VEW) GTF effort originally called for an AAO increase of 2, it has 

now grown to 122 and includes systems 

being delivered to Intelligence and Infantry Battalions, Wings and Squadrons. 

The Fiscal Year 2010 refresh will replace 

Personal Data Controller, software and 

camera components and is essential to 

MSIDS life-cycle support. 

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 

MSIDS computers/SW: SW-897 0

Personal Data 

Controllers: 100 600 

Cameras 90 3000

Night Vision 400 0

Thermal: 148 0

VEW 140 0

Developer/Manufacturer:

Canon, Panasonic, ITT, ViaSat and FLIR 

MTSC, Stafford, Virginia

EYAK Technologies, Anchorage, Alaska

Integrity Data Inc, Colorado Springs, 

Colorado

Marine Air-Ground Task Force Secondary Imagery 

Dissemination System (MSIDS)
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Description

The Current Tactical Data Network 

(TDN) augments the existing Marine Air 

Ground Task Force (MAGTF) communications infrastructure by forming the 

communications backbone for MAGTF 

tactical data systems. The TDN system 

consists of gateways (TDN Gateways) and 

servers (TDN DDS), interconnected with 

one another and their subscribers via a 

combination of common-user, long-haul 

transmission systems, in conjunction with 

local area networks (LANs). TDN brings a 

scalable system of devices that will provide 

a robust data communications backbone 

to the commander.

Operational Impact

TDN provides its subscribers with 

secure and non-secure access to strategic, supporting establishment, joint 

and other-service component tactical 

data networks; with the capability to 

send and receive electronic messages 

and share files; and a solid backbone 

for an Active Directory architecture. 

Program Status

The Marine Corps has completed 

fielding and New Equipment Training 

(NET) of TDN Data Distribution Systems 

Reset (DDS-R) in response to an urgent 

and compelling GWOT requirement. 

TDN (Gateway) Refresh will complete OA testing during 3nd Qtr FY 2009, 

with fielding to begin 4th Qtr FY 2009.

The contract to procure a modular 

DDS variant was awarded to General 

Dynamics in March 2008.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 

Modular DDS variants: 365 147

Developer/Manufacturer:

TDN (DDS-R): General Dynamics 

Communication Systems, Taunton, MA

TDN (Gateway): SPAWAR, Charleston, SC

Modular DDS variants (DDS-M): General 

Dynamics Communication Systems, 

Taunton, MA

Tactical Data Network (TDN)
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Description

The Tactical Exploitation Group 

(TEG) is the Marine Corps’ primary tactical imagery exploitation system. The 

TEG is modular and scalable, employing a tiered approach which consists of 

two echelon-tailored configurations — 

the TEG-Main (TEG-M) and the TEGRemote Workstation (TEG-RWS). The 

TEG-M is employed at the Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) level and serves 

as the deployable Imagery Intelligence 

(IMINT) ground station capable of data 

linking imagery directly from theater and 

tactical reconnaissance platforms such as 

the F/A-18D, U-2 and Global Hawk. The 

TEG-RWS supports echelons below the 

MEF and is a deployable IMINT workstation designed to access national, theater 

and tactical imagery repositories via classified networks and/or the Global Broadcast System to support tailored on-site 

imagery analysis during deployments. 

The TEG disseminates secondary imagery products and imagery exploitation 

reports to the MEF commander and subordinate commanders in support of tactical operations, strike planning, precision 

mensuration, detection and location of 

targets of opportunity and battle damage 

assessment for re-strike planning and intelligence assessment. The TEG employs 

commercial off-the-shelf, government 

off-the-shelf, and non-developmental 

item computer hardware and software to 

enable rapid upgrades, as well as maintain 

commonality and interoperability with 

other Marine Corps and joint IMINT

systems.

Operational Impact

The TEG provides the MAGTF and/

or Joint Task Force commander with an 

organic capability to produce IMINT in 

support of operations. Planned upgrades 

will enable the processing of imagery 

from additional unmanned aerial systems, emerging sensors and platforms; 

improve video capture and exploitation 

capabilities; enhance net-centric functionality; and increase modularity.

Program Status

The TEG is an Acquisition Category III program that received a favorable 

Milestone C fielding decision in FY 2005 

and was granted approval by the Milestone Decision Authority to enter the 

Production and Deployment phase. Initial operational capability was achieved in 

FY 2005 and fielding of TEG-M occurred 

during FY 2006. The TEG-M has begun 

a spiral upgrade focusing on increased 

modularity and net-centric capability as 

the result of an engineering change proposal (ECP). Production is underway 

with a first article delivery planned for 

first quarter calendar year 2009 with full 

operational capability anticipated during FY 2010. The TEG-RWS completed 

a technology refresh as the result of an 

Tactical Exploitation Group (TEG)
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93

ECP during FY 2006 which included a 

transition from a UNIX operating system 

to Windows. The TEG-RWS is scheduled 

for a Spiral III upgrade beginning in fiscal year 2009 which will focus on merging 

the TEG/RWS and TPC/DIGITAL TERRAIN ANALYSIS MAPPING SYSTEM 

(DTAMS) hardware solutions. In fiscal 

year 2010, TEG will begin transitioning 

to solely a maintenance and sustainment 

phase as the program is migrated to the 

Distributed Common Ground SystemMarine Corps (DCGS-MC). TEG is 

one of the two programs that will comprise DCGS-MC 1 with an initial fielding scheduled for fiscal year 2011. Once 

DCGS-MC Increment 1 is fully fielded, 

TEG will be retired. 

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 

TEG Main 6 N/A

TEG RWS 128 N/A

Developer/Manufacturer:

Prime Hardware Integrator: Northrop 

Grumman, Linthicum, MD 

Software Integrator: Northrop Grumman, 

Linthicum, MD

Common Data Link: L-3 Communications, 

Salt Lake City, UT
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Marine Corps Enterprise Network (MCEN) 

The Marine Corps Enterprise Network (MCEN) consists of our unclassified 

and classified networks and provides the 

reliable, secure interoperability needed to 

collaborate internally and with our joint 

partners from home station to the tactical 

edge of the battlefield. The MCEN provides end-to-end information technology 

capabilities that allow the Marine Corps 

to operate within the Global Infrastructure Grid (GIG), command at all levels 

(strategic, operational and tactical) and 

conduct business operations. 

Currently, the Marines Corps receives 

the majority of our garrison unclassified 

Non-Secure Internet Protocol Routing 

Network (NIPRNET) services through the 

Navy Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI). We 

are partnering with the Department of the 

Navy to transition to the Next Generation 

Enterprise Network (NGEN). This transition will provide the Marine Corps government ownership and operation of our 

networks and increase network security 

and flexibility. NGEN will provide the Marine Corps the agility and flexibility to support its business domains, and will easily 

integrate into our warfighting networks. 

NGEN will be implemented through an 

incremental approach, with the first phase 

scheduled to begin in October 2010, to 

provide information infrastructure across 

the Marine Corps. The remainder of the 

Marine Corps’ unclassified services are 

provided through legacy Marine Corps 

networks. Legacy network reduction, in 

preparation for NGEN, is ongoing and will 

assist in the continued streamlining of Marine Corps-wide infrastructure. 

The Marine Corps classified networks are the backbone of our command 

and control system, and a robust, secure 

and interoperable Secret Internet Protocol Routing Network (SIPRNET) allows timely and effective command and 

control of our forces. To provide a highly 

secure and trusted classified network, the 

Marine Corps continues to invest in the 

expansion of our SIPRNET capability and 

capacity to meet operational and sensitive 

business requirements. 

As an integral part of the Marine 

Corps regionalization concept and in support of centralized command and decentralized control principles, Marine Corps 

network operations are designed and 

organized to effectively manage, modify 

and defend Marine Corps networks. This 

network regionalization alignment provides maximum operational flexibility 

to commanders, increases security and 

provides an organizational construct that 

supports network operations. Enterpriselevel oversight will be provided by the 

Marine Corps Network Operations and 

Security Center (MCNOSC). In addition 

to their network defense responsibilities, 

the MCNSOC executes numerous other 

enterprise-wide activities:

• Operations Center monitors and maintains 

situational awareness of MCEN operations 

24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

• Defense Messaging System (DMS) Central 

Operations Center provides continuous, 

centralized management and control of DMS 

and Automated Message Handling Service 

operations.

• Expeditionary Support Team provides 

network support to deploying and deployed 

Marine forces.
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• Mainframe Enterprise Services provides 

enterprise mainframe management and support.

• Enterprise Directory Management provides 

standardized implementation, operations and 

support of MCEN directory services.

• E-LMR provides enterprise engineering and 

technical support for the Enterprise Land 

Mobile Radio.

• Network Plans and Engineering personnel 

evaluate and develop network-based technical solutions and capability improvements in 

support of the warfighter mission. 

The four Regional Network Operations and Security Centers (RNOSCs) 

provide regional-level oversight and 

system-level control of their areas, which 

includes information assurance support. 

Providing technical control of local operations are the seven MAGTF Information 

Technology Support Centers (MITSCs) 

which provide the computing infrastructure and the local base, post and station 

personnel support. 

The Marine Corps has enhanced our 

security posture with a defense-in-depth 

strategy to actively respond to an ever-increasing cyber threat and at the same time 

as maintained network accessibility and 

responsiveness. This layered approach, 

aligned with Department of Defense 

standards, provides the Marine Corps 

networks that support our warfighting 

and business operations while protecting our Marines, Sailors, and their families’ personal information. Marine Corps 

network defense consists of the policies 

and procedures that prepare networks 

and systems, the information technology equipment (hardware and software) 

necessary to defend the network and the 

personnel to defend the network. Specific 

areas the Marine Corps network defense 

focuses on are: 

• Marine Corps Computer Emergency Response 

Team that enables global network operations 

of the MCEN through protection, detection, 

and effective net defense response actions.

• Marine Corps Information Assurance Red 

Team that performs Defensive Information 

Operations (D-IO) for the MCEN and all c

onnected systems.

• Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) personnel 

conduct enterprise operations, planning and 

support for the implementation of PKI across 

the MCEN.

• Infrastructure Security personnel operate 

and control Point of Presence equipment at all 

MCEN boundaries.

• Vulnerability Management Teams detect and 

remediate information assurance vulnerabilities across the enterprise. 

• Training to ensure a core of ready, trained 

personnel that can effectively protect USMC 

networks.

The MCEN allows the Marine Corps 

to operate across the spectrum of conflict from flagpole to fighting hole. Successful Marine Corps operations require 

the MCEN be operated, maintained and 

defended effectively and efficiently with 

trained, capable personnel. 
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Global Command and Control Systems-Integrated Imagery and 

Intelligence (GCCS-I3) Initiative 

Description

The Global Command and Control 

Systems–Integrated Imagery and Intelligence initiative (GCCS–I3

) provides 

the software segment, development and 

technical integration among the Joint 

GCCS-I3 architecture, the Marine Corps’ 

Intelligence Analysis System (IAS) and 

the Tactical Control and Analysis Center. The U.S. Navy is the executive agent 

for GCCS-I3 software development and 

maintenance and executes this role 

through the Joint Deployable Intelligence 

Support Systems Joint Program Office 

(JDISS JPO). GCCS-I3 software, loaded 

on the IAS Family of Systems (FoS), 

provides analytical capability at all levels from the Battalion/Squadron to the 

Marine Expeditionary Force. 

GCCS-I3 provides the operational 

commander with increased situational 

awareness, track management, imagery 

and other intelligence data. This is accomplished by using a standard set of 

integrated, linked tools and services that 

maximize commonality via the Common 

Operational Picture across the tactical, 

theater and national levels. GCCS-I3 operates in joint and service specific environments and is interoperable and compliant 

with the Common Operational Environment, which facilitates the migration of 

USMC systems to the Global Information 

Grid Enterprise Services and Net-Centric 

Enterprise Services.

Operational Impact

GCCS-I3 is the core software for the 

IAS FoS and works to ensure that the IAS 

FoS software is interoperable with the 

Marine Corps’ communication and data 

transmission systems. Several Marine 

Corps intelligence systems use GCCS-I3

as their core software and/or individual 

segments as major components of their 

software baseline, including:

• Technical Control and Analysis Center 

• Topographic Production Capability 

• Tactical Exploitation Group 

• Counterintelligence and Human Intelligence 

Equipment Program

• Tactical Remote Sensor System

• Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System

• Tactical Electronic Reconnaissance Processing 

and Evaluation System

Program Status

The GCCS-I3 initiative has several 

long-term and short-term goals to enhance the interoperability and procurement decisions for Marine Corps intelligence systems. In the long-term, this 

program seeks to achieve integrated, fully 

interoperable Marine Corps intelligence 

systems. In the near-term, the program 

seeks to establish a process and a corresponding set of procedures designed 

to allow the Marine Corps to make informed procurement decisions in its efforts toward achieving the long-term goal. 

The GCCS-I3 initiative has four mission 

areas: Administration and Infrastructure 

Support; Program Manager-Level Configuration Management Processes and 

Functions; Science and Technology Engineering Support; and Integration Support 

Team.
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Description

The Counterintelligence and Human 

Intelligence Equipment Program (CIHEP) 

consists of 12 modules to support the full 

spectrum of CI/HUMINT operational requirements. The suite includes imagery; 

commercial satellite communications; 

Very High Frequency (VHF), Ultra High 

Frequency (UHF) and UHF tactical satellite communications; power; automated 

data processing; and technical support 

equipment. All equipment is stored and 

transported in lightweight, modular and 

deployable cases to facilitate task organization of equipment for assigned missions. The CIHEP Software Baseline is 

standardized among the computer assets 

in the suite and provides reporting, lowlevel analysis, communications, mapping, 

still and video image processing, and 

Common Operational Picture (C2PC) 

applications. It also integrates with the 

IAS FoS using the MarineLink application suite.

Operational Impact

CIHEP enhances HUMINT Exploitation Teams’ (HET) ability to conduct 

HUMINT and CI operations and to accomplish other assigned tasks in support of Marine Air Ground Task Force 

(MAGTF) missions at the tactical, operational and service levels. The equipment 

suite provides HETs an organic capability 

to research collection requirements, process collected information, produce intelligence reports and disseminate those 

Counterintelligence and Human Intelligence 

Equipment Program (CIHEP) 
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reports securely over-the-horizon to supported commanders and intelligence officers. The suite also includes equipment to 

provide limited organic technical support 

to CI and HUMINT operations.

Program Status

In May 1999, CIHEP was designated 

an Abbreviated Acquisition Program of 

Record. A Limited User Evaluation was 

performed in March 2000, with a Milestone C production and fielding decision 

in April 2000. Initial Operational Capability was achieved in September 2001 

with fielding of completed modules to 

the Marine Expeditionary Forces (MEF), 

Reserves and the Navy and Marine Corps 

Intelligence Training Center (NMITC). 

Full Operational Capability was reached 

in September 2002. The program was 

restructured in 2006, creating 10 modules vice a single system. This streamlined program management by grouping 

equipment capabilities and enhanced logistics management and equipment task 

organization by unit mission. In 2008, 

two additional modules (media exploitation capabilities) were added, bringing 

the total to 12 modules. CIHEP is currently in a maintenance and refresh cycle; 

with selected components of modules refreshed as required. CIHEP continues to 

procure and field equipment to meet the 

demands of the total force structure increase, the Grow the Force initiative, and 

the addition of the Marine Special Operations Command. Of the twelve modules 

in CIHEP, ten are fielded exclusively to 

CI/HUMINT organizations at various 

levels of command. The Media Exploitation-Light module is fielded to both CI/

HUMINT and Radio Battalion (RadBn) 

assets, and the Media Exploitation-Heavy 

will be fielded exclusively to the RadBns. 

Procurement 

Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Software Baseline: 1 1

Data Processing 

Module: 102 0

Advanced Imagery 

Module: 133* 0

Commercial Handheld 

SatCom Set: 0 95

Commercial 

SatCom Set: 139 0

Tactical SatCom Set: 146 0

Tactical Handheld 

Communication Set: 0 385

Surveillance 

Comm Module 120 0

Technical Support Set 0 112*

Technical Surveillance 

Module 11* 0

Vehicle Accessory 

Module 71 0

Media Exploitation–

Light 203* 0

Media Exploitation–

Heavy 0 56

* Will refresh selected components

Developer/Manufacturer:

MTCSC Stafford, VA; KnowBiz, Inc. 

San Diego, CA; Ideal Technology Corp 

Orlando, FL; Klas Telecom, Inc., Washington, D.C.; Thales Communications, Inc. 

Clarksburg, MD; Harris Communications 

Corp, Rochester, NY; Panasonic Corp, 

Secaucus NJ; Automated Business Power, 

Gaithersburg, MD

Program and Logistics Support: 

L-3 Communications, Stafford, VA; General 

Dynamics, Stafford, VA (ICE2); MTCSC 

Stafford, VA; SPAWAR Systems Center 

Charleston, Charleston, SC
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The Marine Corps Intelligence 

Activity (MCIA) provides tailored 

intelligence products and services to 

the Marine Corps, other services and 

the Intelligence Community based on 

expeditionary mission profiles in littoral 

areas. As the Marine Corps’ Intelligence Production Center, MCIA plays 

a key role in the development of service 

doctrine, force structure, training and 

education and systems development and 

acquisition. 

MCIA comprises a command element; a production and analysis element 

that includes analysis, imagery, and topographic support; a counterintelligence/

human intelligence element; and a cryptologic support element. Each element 

provides unique capabilities that enable 

MCIA to fully support intelligence requirements in all facets of expeditionary 

operations. Together, these elements deliver “excellence in expeditionary intelligence” to MCIA’s broad and growing 

customer set. 

MCIA engages with Marine units 

scheduled for deployment ensuring that 

each command understands MCIA capabilities and limitations in providing 

support during pre-deployment, deployment, and post-deployment. Frequently, 

pre-deployment engagement includes 

command site visits encouraging the full 

identification of specific, detailed intelligence requirements and preliminary estimates of supportability, not only using 

MCIA’s own internal capabilities but also 

its unique ability to leverage the larger 

Intelligence Community to help solve 

Marine Corps operating forces intelligence challenges. 

During deployment, MCIA maintains contact with the deployed unit ensuring continued support to operational 

requirements. Additionally, during a deployment MCIA may provide a liaison officer facilitating direct representation and 

a better understanding of intelligence requirements. All intelligence requirements 

adhere to appropriate chains of command 

to include each supported Combatant 

Command. 

After the deployment ends, MCIA

coordinates and conducts a post-deployment brief. This brief includes not only 

the supported units and MCIA, but also 

any other organizations that contributed to the intelligence support effort. 

The intent is to review the intelligence 

requirements submitted with the intelligence support provided and determine 

what worked well, what needs improvement and capture lessons learned for 

the future. 

This unyielding focus on supporting Marine Forces — be they deployed in 

harm’s way, preparing to deploy, or safely 

returned to their homeport — is the hallmark of MCIA’s expeditionary intelligence support.

Expeditionary Intelligence Support
chapter 3

part 3 

Ground Mobility And

Fire Support 
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Introduction

Today’s operational environments demand speed, agility and mobility of ground 

forces to respond to if not anticipate an adversary’s actions, often in complex, ambiguous battlefields, against irregular forces and in a wide variety of operational — desert, 

jungle and Arctic — environments. Individual Marines must also be capable of deterring and defeating the conventional forces of more traditional adversaries, where 

the ability to maneuver with speed and agility — from the sea and across the beach 

to inland objectives — also remains paramount to achieving mission objectives. An 

important enabler of maneuver warfare, mobility across all terrain is enhanced by the 

Individual Marine’s ability to call in offensive and defensive fires from ground-based, 

airborne and seaborne systems. Timely, responsive, high-accuracy and precision fires 

can often mean the difference between success and failure.

The Army and Marine Corps are leading the U.S. Armed Services in developing tactical wheeled vehicle requirements for the joint force. The defined capabilities reflect an appropriate balance in survivability, mobility, payload, networking, 

transportability, and sustainability. The Army/Marine Corps Board has proven a 

valuable forum for coordination of the development and fielding strategies, production of armoring kits and up-armored High Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled 

Vehicles, and rapid response to requests for Mine Resistant Ambush Protected 

vehicles. 

In 2007, “The Major Combat Operations Analysis for fiscal years 2014 and 2024” 

study scrutinized the current organic fire support of the Marine Air Ground Task 

Force (MAGTF), to determine the adequacy, integration and modernization requirements for ground, aviation and naval surface fires. We also performed a supplemental 

historical study using Operation Iraqi Freedom data to examine MAGTF Fires in the 

full spectrum of warfare. These studies reconfirmed our development of the Triad of 

Ground Indirect Fires.

Several innovative systems related to fire support significantly enhance the warfighting efficiency and effectiveness of the MAGTF, including the M777 Lightweight 

Howitzer, High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, Expeditionary Fire Support System, 

Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System, and the Target Location, Designation, 

and Handoff system.

The ground mobility programs discussed in this section are designed to ensure that 

Individual Marines are mobile and survivable on the modern battlefield and possess 

critical fire-support systems that increase the MAGTF’s lethality and effectiveness. 
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Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV)

Description

The Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle 

(EFV) will be the primary means of tactical 

mobility for the Marine rifle squad during 

the conduct of amphibious operations and 

subsequent operations ashore. The EFV is a 

self-deploying, high-water speed, armored 

amphibious vehicle capable of transporting Marines from ships located beyond the 

horizon to inland objectives. The EFV will 

have the speed and maneuvering capabilities to operate with main battle tanks on 

land. In addition, the vehicles can use bodies of water, such as oceans, lakes and rivers 

as avenues of approach and maneuver. The 

EFV is an armored, fully tracked infantry 

combat vehicle that will be operated and 

maintained by a crew of three Marines, 

and have a troop capacity of 17 Marines 

with their individual combat equipment. 

The EFV replaces the Assault Amphibious Vehicle (AAV7A1) that was fielded in 

1972, and will be more than 40 years old 

when the EFV is fielded.

Operational Impact

The EFV’s high-speed land and water 

maneuverability, highly lethal day/night 

fighting ability, advanced armor and NBC 

protection will significantly enhance the 

lethality and survivability of Marine maneuver units across the spectrum of operations. The EFV enables the Navy and 

Marine Corps team to project power from 

the sea base in a manner that will exploit 

intervening sea and land terrain, achieve 

surprise, avoid enemy strengths and generate never-before-realized operational 

tempo across warfighting functions.

Program Status

The EFV program is in the Systems 

Development and Demonstration (SDD) 

Phase of the acquisition process. This 

phase was extended to FY 2012 to enable 

the program to execute a redesign effort to 

improve reliability performance. During 

the early part of this phase, the program 

completed the design and fabrication of 

nine second-generation SDD prototypes 

and one Live Fire Test Vehicle. Nine of the 

SDD vehicles were used as part of an extensive developmental test program that 

resulted in the vehicle demonstrating six 

of the seven Key Performance Parameters 

during the comprehensive Milestone C 

Operational Assessment (MS C OA) from 

January to September 2006. However, reliability performance during the MS C OA

did not meet required levels. As a result 

of the extensive design for reliability activities, the program released a design at Critical Design Review (CDR) in 1st quarter FY 

2009 that met all allocated requirements 

including reliability. These improvements 

will be demonstrated during Developmental Test and Operational Test (DT&OT) 

starting 2nd quarter FY 2010 on seven 

prototypes currently being manufactured. 

The Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) 

decision (Milestone C) is programmed for 

FY 2012. The Joint Services Manufacturing Center in Lima, Ohio, will be the production and assembly site for the EFV. The 

current acquisition objective is to produce 

573 EFVs. Initial Operational Capability is 

scheduled for 2015 and Full Operational 

Capability for 2025.

Procurement Profile: Low Rate Initial 

Production is scheduled to begin in 

FY 2012 with Full Rate Production to 

begin in FY 2015.

Developer/Manufacturer:

General Dynamics Amphibious Systems, 

Woodbridge, VA
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Description

The Marine Personnel Carrier (MPC) 

will serve as a medium lift personnel carrier. The Marine Personnel Carrier is a 

combat vehicle program complementing 

the EFV by providing expeditionary protection tailored for irregular warfare (including IEDs), in combination with high 

off road mobility for combat forces.” 

Operational Impact

The MPC will provide landward lift 

to Infantry battalions. One Infantry battalion can be lifted by one MPC company 

along with the Infantry battalion’s organic 

wheeled assets. Two MPC-Personnel Carriers can lift a reinforced Infantry squad.

Program Status

The Marine Corps is deferring Milestone A (MS A) for the MPC program. 

This decision to delay the MPC program 

to the FY10 time-frame allows the Marine Corps to effectively prioritize nearterm investment decisions, providing a 

synchronized mobility strategy with respect to the capabilities MPC, the EFV 

and JLTV offer for the future. 

Marine Personnel Carrier (MPC)
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Description

MRAP vehicles are V-shaped hulled, 

raised chassis, armored vehicles with blast 

resistant underbodies designed to protect 

crews from mine blasts, as well as fragmentary and direct fire weapons. Three 

categories of MRAP vehicles are currently 

being developed and fielded: 

• Category I vehicles support operations in 

an urban environment and other restricted/

confined spaces; including mounted patrols, 

reconnaissance, communications, ambulance 

and command and control.

• Category II vehicles support multi-mission 

operations such as convoy lead, troop transport, explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), 

ambulance, and combat engineering.

• Category III vehicles support Mine/Improvised Explosive Device (IED) clearance 

operations and explosive ordnance disposal.

Operational Impact

MRAP vehicles provide deployed 

commanders, various units, EOD and 

Combat Engineer teams with survivable 

ground mobility platforms. Marine units 

operating in Operation Iraqi Freedom/

Operation Enduring Freedom require 

vehicles capable of surviving mine/IED, 

small arms fire, rocket propelled grenade 

and vehicle borne IED attacks. Marines 

participate in and/or respond rapidly to a 

variety of offensive, stability and security 

operations without a large security contingent and they need a vehicle capable 

of functioning in a counter attack after 

surviving a “first blow” ambush or attack. 

There is an immediate need for MRAP

vehicles to increase survivability and mobility of Marines operating in a hazardous 

fire area against known threats.

Program Status

A sole source contract was awarded 

on 9 Nov 06 for 200 CAT II and up to 80 

CAT III vehicles to bridge urgent warfighting needs while a competitive acquisition for the balance of CAT I and CAT

II platforms was planned and executed. 

On 26 Jan 07, nine indefinite delivery indefinite quantity contracts were awarded 

to vendors that demonstrated capabilities 

to meet the program’s overarching objective of producing the maximum number 

of survivable, safe, and sustainable MRAP

vehicles in the shortest period of time. 

The Joint Program Office has used a series 

of Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) delivery orders with five of the vendors to 

order a majority of the vehicles. 

Mine Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicle (MRAP)
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A total of 16,238 vehicles are being 

procured for the Army, Marine Corps, 

Air Force, Navy, and SOCOM. The Marine Corps is executing the joint program 

on behalf of the Navy (lead Service). To 

date, the Joint Program Office (JPO) has 

acquired 16,222 vehicles (including 137 

legacy systems) to satisfy the acquisition 

objective.

Force Protection, Industries, Inc. 

(FPII) has completed production of all 

MRAP CAT I and II vehicles for the Marine Corps and the JPO. The MARCENT

objective was reached in June 08. The 

last production vehicles for home station 

training and five enhanced maneuverability test vehicles were delivered in Nov 

08. International customer vehicle production will continue at FPII.

As of 6 Jan 09, 15,106 MRAP vehicles 

have been accepted by the government in 

CONUS and Kuwait 10,902 vehicles have 

been fielded to units in theater (9,490 in 

IZ; 1,271 in AF; and 141 in KU, QA, BH).

The JPO has initiated a new contracting effort for an additional 8 CAT III vehicles in the current acquisition objective 

for the Marine Corps. The request for 

proposal was released to Force Protection 

Industries, Inc. for acquisition of the next 

generation MRAP Buffalo (CAT III), the 

MK3A2. The three-year contract contains 

provisions to order up to 50 vehicles and 

logistics and engineering services. The 

MK3A2 will provide an enhanced route 

clearance capability for USMC combat 

engineer and explosive ordnance disposal 

(EOD) units. 

The JPO is actively pursuing vehicle upgrades to meet emerging threats, 

enhance vehicle mobility and improve 

automotive performance through incorporating engineering changes in current 

production, planned orders and fielded 

vehicles. In Dec 08 the JPO initiated a 

contracting effort for an MRAP-All Terrain Vehicle (M-ATV) that is lighter, and 

more maneuverable but with MRAP survivability for urgent warfighting requirements in Afghanistan. 

Procurement Profile: FY07-FY10

Quantity: Army 12,010

Marine Corps 2,627

Navy 544

Air Force 538

SOCOM 386

Test Vehicles 133

Developer/Manufacturer:

BAE, York, PA

BAE-TVS, Sealy, TX

Force Protection, Industries, Inc. (FPII), 

Charleston, SC

General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada 

(GDLS-C), London, Ontario 

Navistar Defense, LLC, Warrenville, IL
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Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) 

Description

The Joint Light Tactical Vehicle 

(JLTV) capabilities represent a shift to 

adapt from a threat-based, Cold War garrison force focused on containment to a 

capabilities-based expeditionary force 

focused on flexibility, survivability, force 

protection, responsiveness, and agility. 

The JLTV is a Joint Army/Marine Corps 

program, which consists of a family of 

vehicles with companion trailers capable 

of performing multiple mission roles that 

will be designed to provide protected, 

sustained, networked mobility for personnel and payloads across the full Range 

Of Military Operations (traditional to 

irregular). The JLTV will be strategically 

and operationally transportable; and tactically mobile across all terrain.

Operational Impact

The Joint Light Tactical Vehicle 

(JLTV) will enhance light tactical mobility combat arms, combat support, combat 

service support by providing the following characteristics:

• Protection: Scalable armor to provide mission flexibility while protecting the force.

• Sustainment: Reliable, maintainable, 

maximum commonality across mission role 

variants, onboard and exportable power, and 

reduced fuel consumption while accounting 

for added armor protection.

• Networking: Connectivity for improved 

awareness of the operational environment 

and responsive, well-integrated Command 

and Control (C2) for embarked forces.

• Transportability: Transportable by a range 

of lift assets, including rotary wing aircraft, to 

support concepts across the Range of Military 

Operations (ROMO).

• Mobility: Maneuverability to enable operations across the spectrum of terrain, including urban areas.

Program Status

Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) 

is a Joint Army/Marine Corps program 

with the U.S. Army designated as the lead 

service, with a Joint Program Office (JPO) 

at Army TACOM under the leadership of 

the Program Executive Office for Combat 

Support/Combat Service Support and a 

Program Office under the leadership of 

the Program Officer for Land Systems 

(PEO LS) Marine Corps at Quantico, VA. 

The Marine Corps AAO for Increment 

I = 5,500 vehicles. 

Procurement Profile: JLTV is undergoing a 

government-funded 27-month Technology 

Demonstration Phase and no procurement 

is planned for FY09.

Special note at publication time: The ArmyMarine Corps Team awarded contracts 

to three Industry teams in October 2008 

which included General Tactical Vehicles 

(AM General and General Dynamics land 

Systems joint venture), BAE Systems and 

Lockheed Martin. Northrop Grumman and 

Textron filed protests with GAO in November 2008 concerning the contract awards.

The GAO report with recommendations to 

the Services is expected during the February/March 2009 timeframe.

Developer/Manufacturer:

TBD
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Description

The Internally Transportable Vehicle 

(ITV) will be a highly mobile weaponscapable light-strike platform that can 

support a variety of operations. It will 

provide Marine Air-Ground Task Force 

(MAGTF) ground combat units with a 

vehicle transportable in CH-53E and MV22 aircraft. It also will provide reconnaissance units equal or greater mobility than 

the MAGTF maneuver elements they 

support, thereby enhancing their mission 

performance and survivability. 

Operational Impact

The ITV will allow MAGTF commanders to take maximum advantage of 

the speed and range offered by the MV-22 

and CH-53E by deploying ground units 

equipped with highly mobile light-strike 

vehicles armed with heavy or medium 

machine guns. The Interim Fast Attack 

Vehicle (IFAV) is currently fielded and 

is deployable inside the CH-53E aircraft, 

but the Ground Combat Element currently has no ground mobility platform 

that can deploy inside the MV-22. ITV 

will replace the IFAV.

Program Status

The ITV Program is currently in 

production and deployment. A full rate 

production decision was achieved in July 

2008 and initial operational capability is 

planned for January 2009, when one infantry battalion receives 15 ITVs.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 44 52

Developer/Manufacturer:

General Dynamics Ordnance and 

Tactical Systems with subcontractor 

American Growler, Robbins, NC

Internally Transportable Vehicle (ITV)
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Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement (MTVR)

Description

The Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement (MTVR) has replaced the aging medium truck fleet (M809/M939) 

series five-ton trucks with state-of-the-art 

commercial automotive technology. The 

MTVR has a payload of 7.1 tons off-road, 

15 tons on-road, a high-performance suspension, traction control, new engine, 

central tire inflation system, automatic 

transmission and corrosion technology upgrades. The MTVR Armor System 

(MAS) provides complete 360-degree protection as well as overhead and underbody 

protection for the crew compartment, 

using Mil-A-46100 High Hard Steel and 

Metal Composite. The MAS is intended as 

a permanent modification to the vehicle, 

and includes an upgraded front suspension and cab rebuild. The kit includes an 

integrated air conditioning system and 

machine gun mount. The Cargo MAS kit 

includes an optional, removable Troop 

Carrier (with ballistic glass). 

Operational Impact

More than 1,030 MTVRs are currently being used in theater. The MTVR

can readily negotiate terrain twice as 

rough as the five-ton truck. There are several variants of the basic MTVR platform 

for use with different functions to include 

a dump truck, wrecker, and tractor. The 

Dump and Wrecker variants maintain 

maximum commonality with the basic 

MTVR cargo chassis while performing 

their unique missions. The Marine Corps 

is procuring the Navy Seabee tractor variant to serve as the prime mobility mover.

Program Status

The MTVR is in the production/deployment phase. The MTVR dump-andtractor MAS Variants began fielding in 

December 2006. The Approved Acquisition Objective for MTVR increased to 

10,796 and MAS to 5,077 as a result of 

a new USMC Tactical Wheeled Vehicle 

Armor Strategy and increase in USMC 

end-strength. Based on Urgent Universal 

Needs Statements, an MAS Blast Protection upgrade kit, including blast-resistant 

cab seating, has been developed and is being retrofitted on all MTVR MAS vehicles 

in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). Similarly, fuel tank fire protection kits are being installed in every MTVR in OIF. The 

USMC’s objective is to retrofit all existing 

MAS MTVRs with the blast upgrade and 

fuel tank fire kits. These upgrades will be 

included in all future MAS orders. 

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 95 25

Developer/Manufacturer:

Oshkosh Truck Corporation, WI
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Description

The High Mobility Artillery Rocket 

System (HIMARS) is a C-130-transportable, wheeled, indirect-fire, rocket/missile system capable of firing all rockets 

and missiles in the current and future 

Multiple Launch Rocket System Family of 

Munitions. The HIMARS launcher consists of a fire-control system, carrier (automotive platform) and launcher-loader 

module that will perform all operations 

necessary to complete a fire mission. The 

system is defined as one launcher, two 

re-supply vehicles, two re-supply trailers 

and munitions.

Operational Impact

HIMARS addresses an identified, 

critical warfighting deficiency in Marine 

Corps fire support. HIMARS will primarily employ the Guided Multiple Launch 

Rocket System rocket to provide precision fires in support of maneuver forces. 

HIMARS is a transformational, 24-hour, 

ground-based, responsive, General Support/General Support-Reinforcing, precision, indirect-fire weapon system that 

accurately engages targets at long ranges 

(70+ Km) with high volumes of lethal fire 

under all weather conditions throughout 

all phases of combat operations ashore. 

HIMARS will be fielded to two battalions (one active and one Reserve) in 

the Marine Corps. 

Program Status

The HIMARS program is in the operations and support phase. HIMARS 

achieved initial operational capability in 

4th quarter fiscal year 2008. Full operational capability will be achieved in fiscal 

year 2010.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 7 0

Developer/Manufacturer:

Launcher and MFOM: Lockheed Martin 

Corporation, Missiles & Fire Control 

Division, Dallas, TX

Re-Supply System: Oshkosh Truck 

Corporation, Oshkosh, WI

High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS)
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Lightweight 155mm Howitzer (LW155)

Description

The Lightweight 155mm Howitzer 

(LW155) is a joint Marine Corps/Army 

program to develop, produce and field 

a towed 155mm howitzer that provides 

increased mobility, survivability, deployability and sustainability in expeditionary operations throughout the world. The 

LW155, designated the M777, is a direct 

and general-support artillery system that 

is replacing the M198 155mm Medium 

Towed Howitzer in both services. It has 

incorporated innovative design technologies to overcome deficiencies inherent in 

the current M198 howitzer. The LW155 is 

the first ground combat system whose major structures are made of high-strength 

titanium alloy, and the system makes extensive use of hydraulics to operate the 

breech, load tray, recoil and wheel arms. 

The combination of titanium structures 

and the use of hydraulic systems resulted 

in a significant weight savings compared 

to the M198 system (>7,000 pounds.). 

Compared to the M198, the M777 emplaces three-times faster and displaces 

four-times faster. It traverses 32 percent 

more terrain worldwide and is 70 percent 

more survivable than the M198.

The M777A2 is an upgrade to the basic weapon that adds a digital fire-control 

system using a Global Positioning System, 

an Inertial Navigation Unit and a Vehicle 

Motion Sensor to accurately locate and 

orient the weapon to deliver greater accuracy, responsiveness and reliability. The 

system also integrates radios for voice 

and digital communications and a Chief 

of Section Display that is decoupled and 

mounted into the cab of the prime mover 

for use as a navigation aid. The M777 fires 

unassisted projectiles to a range of 15 

miles and assisted projectiles to 19 miles, 

but the addition of the digital fire-control 

system enables the weapon to program 

and fire the Excalibur precision-guided 

munition to ranges in excess of 25 miles 

with better than 10-meter Circular Error 

Probable accuracy.

Operational Impact

The LW 155(M777) is currently inservice with the USMC and U.S. Army 

and has been deployed to Operation Iraqi 

Freedom/Operation Enduring Freedom. 

Program Status

The LW 155 program entered fullrate production in 2005. The Marine 

Corps currently is contracted for 409 

systems.”

Procurement 

Profile: FY2009 FY2010

USMC Quantity: 24 18

Developer/Manufacturer:

BAE Systems, Barrow in Furness, UK; 

General Dynamics, ATP, Burlington, VT; 

Wegmann USA, Lynchburg, VA; TSLA, 

Chatsworth, CA; Watervliet Arsenal, 

Watervliet, NY
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Description

The Expeditionary Fire Support System (EFSS) will be the third and final 

system of a land-based fire-support triad 

that includes the Lightweight 155mm 

Howitzer and High Mobility Artillery 

Rocket System. Accompanying Marine 

Air Ground Task Forces (MAGTFs) in all 

types of expeditionary operations, EFSS 

will be the primary indirect fire-support 

system for the vertical assault element of 

the Ship-To-Objective Maneuver force. 

As such, the EFSS launcher, the mobility platform, a portion of the basic load 

of ammunition and a portion of its crew 

will be internally transportable by a single CH-53E helicopter or a single MV-22 

tilt-rotor aircraft, and will possess the 

greatest possible range and flexibility of 

employment for operational maneuver 

from the sea. 

Operational Impact

EFSS will expand the maneuver commander’s spectrum of fire support options 

and be capable of successfully engaging a 

spectrum of potential point and area targets, including motorized, light armored 

and dismounted personnel; command 

and control systems; and indirect-fire 

systems. EFSS will afford the MAGTF 

commander increased flexibility in tailoring his fire- support systems to support 

the scheme of maneuver. EFSS-equipped 

units will be especially well-suited for 

missions requiring speed, tactical agility 

and vertical transportability. The EFSS 

design and configuration will ensure that 

its tactical mobility, both in the air and on 

the ground, is equal to that of the force 

supported. 

Program Status

The EFSS Program is currently 

in production and deployment. Full 

rate production was approved in June 

2008 and initial operational capability is planned for February 2009, when 

one artillery regiment receives six EFSS 

systems.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 24 20

Developer/Manufacturer:

GD-OTS with subcontractor TDA 

Armements (THALES Group), 

La Ferte-Saint Aubin, France

Expeditionary Fire Support System (EFSS)
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part 4 

Aviation Support 
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Introduction

Fixed and rotary-wing aircraft organic to the Marine Air Ground Task Force 

(MAGTF) shape the battlespace and fight the battle, often in direct support of individual 

Marines on the ground. This air-ground combined-arms team has proven unequalled 

in answering our nation’s calls across the spectrum of operations, from humanitarian 

assistance and disaster relief to delivering ordnance on target during crisis and conflict. 

Regardless of the multifaceted and dynamic threats we face, our mission remains unchanged: we are the MAGTF’s aviation force in readiness.

Today, our priority is to replace legacy aircraft — some of which have been flying 

since the Vietnam War — with vastly more-capable aircraft. Our challenge is to remain 

engaged operationally, sustaining the force while executing our transition strategy for 

the future. The Marine Aviation Plan is a phased, multi-year plan incorporating force 

structure changes to better balance the Active Duty and Reserve Component. We are 

introducing generation-skipping technologies, while simultaneously providing critical 

manpower increases to all flying squadrons and selected sections of the Marine Aircraft 

Group and Marine Aircraft Wing headquarters. Critical to this effort are the numerous 

transition task forces proactively planning our transition from 13 types of legacy aircraft 

to seven new platforms. 

Our transition strategy can be separated into two mutually supportive efforts: sustain our legacy fleet and transition to new aircraft. Sustaining the legacy fleet includes 

upgrading command and control systems as well as our aviation ground support systems in four concurrent programs:

• Aviation Combat Element (ACE) • Theater Battle Management Core System

 Legacy Aircraft Modernization • The Joint Interface Control Office

• Aviation Ground Support Support System

We will transition to our new aircraft and systems on schedule and within 

established budgets. The overarching Transition Strategy detailed in the Marine 

Aviation Plan is our roadmap for navigating through this challenge. This is a keystone, 

“living” document outlining the Marine Corps’ multiyear transition plan to a dramatically changed fleet:

• MV-22 Osprey Program • Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

• H-1 Upgrade Program (UH-1Y / AH-1Z) • KC-130J

• Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Transition Plan • CH-53K

• F-35B Short Take-Off Vertical Landing • VMX-22

(STOVL) Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) • Operational Support Aircraft
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Aviation Combat Element (ACE) Legacy Aircraft Modernization

The Marine Corps has several significant aviation modernization programs underway to restore and enhance 

the capabilities of its existing aircraft and 

systems. These modernization efforts are 

vital to the Marine Corps’ near- to midterm combat capabilities. 

CH-46E Sea Knight

The CH-46E Sea Knight performs 

medium-lift combat missions in the execution of the assault support function of 

Marine aviation. The CH-46E is fulfilling 

critical roles in Operation Iraqi Freedom 

and Operation Enduring Freedom. Sustainability, performance improvements 

and payload recovery programs are essential to ensure the platform continues 

to meet Marine Air Ground Task Force 

(MAGTF) and joint warfighting requirements through the next ten years. 

Because the CH-46E continues to 

play a vital role in support of the Global 

War on Terror, Aircraft Survivability 

Equipment Systems are being upgraded 

to mitigate enemy threats, including the 

missile warning system, countermeasures 

dispensing system and infrared missile 

jamming system. Numerous weight reduction initiatives have commenced and 

target 1,000 pounds of payload recovery. 

Lightweight ceramic armor is replacing 

the original steel armor, providing greater 

protection at significantly reduced weight. 

CH-46E readiness and utilization rates are 

at historic highs, and the efforts underway 

will help these aircraft safely and effectively perform the mission until retirement.

CH-53E Super Stallion

The CH-53E Super Stallion is a 

three-engine, long-range, heavy-lift helicopter that has been key to the assault 

support function of Marine Aviation, but 

the CH-53E cannot support the range 

and payload requirements necessary to 

the Marine Corps future warfighting 

concepts as currently envisioned. The 

current fleet of aircraft will reach the end 

of its fatigue life during this decade and 

until the aircraft can be replaced, a sustainment strategy has been implemented 

to address critical fatigue, obsolescence, 

and reliability issues. A comprehensive 

re-design of the Marine Corps heavy lift 

platform, focusing on reliability, maintainability, cost of ownership, and performance, is required to effectively meet 

Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) 

and joint warfighting requirements over 

the next 25 years. The CH-53K program, 
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formerly known as the Heavy Lift Replacement Program (HLR), is the solution to maintaining a heavy-lift capability 

beyond the year 2025. The CH-53K is a 

derivative design of the existing CH-53E, 

remaining within the same shipboard 

footprint, and is critical to properly and 

cost-effectively supporting sea-based Expeditionary Maneuver Warfare (EMW) 

for the Marine Corps in the 21st century. The CH-53K will provide the Marine 

Corps with the ability to transport 27,000 

lbs of cargo out to 110 nautical miles 

(nm), providing more than twice the lift 

capability of the CH-53E under the same 

conditions. Major system improvements 

of the new build helicopter include: larger 

and more capable engines, an expanded 

gross weight airframe, an enhanced drive 

train, advanced composite rotor blades, a 

modern interoperable cockpit, improved 

external and internal cargo handling 

systems, and increased survivability and 

force protection.

AV-8B Harrier

The AV-8B Harrier Open Systems 

Core Avionics Requirement (OSCAR), 

which updates obsolete software and 

computer equipment, has entered service. 

OSCAR with Operational Flight Program 

H4.0 enables the AV-8B to employ both 

1,000 and 500-pound variants of the Joint 

Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) and 

provides tremendous improvements in 

radar and LITENING advanced targeting 

pod capability.

The LITENING advanced targeting 

pod significantly improves the AV-8B’s 

lethality and survivability. This thirdgeneration, forward-looking infrared set, 

dual field-of-view television seeker and 

infrared marker provides improved target 

recognition and identification and precision targeting capability. Some LITENING pods have also been equipped with 

a C-band video downlink, which allows 

real-time video to be sent to groundbased commanders and forward air 

controllers/joint tactical air controllers 

equipped with the Rover III receiver station. This facilitates time-sensitive targeting and reduces the risk of fratricide and 

collateral damage.

In order to maintain a world-class 

training environment, the two-seat TAV8B trainers are undergoing an upgrade 

program that adds the OSCAR mission 

computer, night vision goggle-compatible 

lighting, and the more powerful and reliable Rolls Royce Pegasus (408) engine. 

These improvements are increasing the 

training capability of the AV-8B fleet replacement squadron, as well as the abilities of replacement pilots reporting to 

fleet squadrons. The enhancements to the 

Harrier are critical in providing continued support to the Marine Air Ground 

Task Force (MAGTF) until the Tactical 

Aviation (TacAir) Integration implemen-
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tation and Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) transition are complete. 

F/A-18 Hornet

The F/A-18A+ Upgrade (Engineering Change Proposal 583) consists primarily of avionics and hardware upgrades 

that allow the F/A-18A+ Hornet to process and use updated versions of F/A-18C 

software and accessories. A large portion 

of this modification enhances commonality between the “A+” and “C” aircraft, 

reducing logistics footprint and pilot and 

maintenance training requirements, as 

well as mitigating obsolescence issues. 

The modified “A+” aircraft is compatible 

with a Lot XVII F/A-18C aircraft, an aircraft eight years younger. This upgrade 

also enables the “A+” aircraft to employ 

all current and programmed future weapons. 

Fifty-six aircraft are scheduled to receive the upgrade, enabling the upgraded “A” model aircraft to remain active 

through 2020. These additional, capable 

F/A-18 airframes are instrumental in 

supporting the Navy-Marine Corps TacAir Integration plan.

The F/A-18D Advanced Tactical Airborne Reconnaissance System (ATARS) 

provides manned airborne tactical reconnaissance capability to the Marine Air 

Ground Task Force (MAGTF). ATARS 

incorporates multiple sensor capabilities including electro-optical, infrared 

and synthetic aperture radar. ATARSequipped aircraft carry all sensor capabilities simultaneously, enabling imagery 

that is selectable by the aircrew in flight. 

Another significant capability of ATARS 

is its ability to transmit digitally collected 

data in near real-time to ground receiving 

stations. This imagery can be data-linked 

to various intelligence systems for national exploitation via the Tactical Exploitation Group. Twenty-two ATARS sensor 

suites and 31 ATARS-modified aircraft 

were operational in all five Marine Corps 

F/A-18D squadrons in January 2009. 

The LITENING advanced targeting 

pod provides the F/A-18 with a significant 

improvement in its lethality and survivability. LITENING is the Marine Corps 

third generation capability for its expeditionary aircraft. This forward-looking 

infrared sensor, dual field-of-view television seeker, and infrared marker provide 

improved target recognition and identification, and precision targeting capability. All F/A-18 and AV-8B supporting 

the Global War On Terror deploy with 

LITENING pods equipped with a video 

downlink. 

Based upon the LITENING pod’s 

proven combat value during recent operations, the Marine Corps has modified 

expeditionary F/A-18, as well as EA-6B, 

aircraft to carry the LITENING pod. It 

is a proven capability that enables Marine Aviation to support the MAGTF and 

Joint Force commanders.
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KC-130 Hercules

All of the legacy KC-130 aircraft will 

be replaced with KC-130Js, a program 

that will culminate in one Type/Model/

Series tactical aerial refueler/assault support aircraft for the Marine Corps.

EA-6B Prowler

EA-6B Prowlers are an essential, 

combat-proven element of the MAGTF 

and Joint Force whose primary mission is 

Airborne Electronic Warfare (AEW) that 

includes Electronic Attack (EA), Electronic Support (ES) and Electronic Protect (EP). Current EA-6B aircraft and systems are in the process of a modification 

and upgrade effort introducing the Improved Capabilities III (ICAP III) weapon 

system for both Marine and Navy squadrons. The core of ICAP III is the ALQ-218 

digital receiver system, the cornerstone 

of advanced signal targeting. This is the 

first receiver upgrade to the EA-6B since 

its fleet introduction more than 30 years 

ago. The improved receivers and computers will enable more precise jamming, improve aircrew situational awareness and 

reducing life cycle costs. 

ICAP III attained initial operational 

capability for the Navy in FY 2005 and 

will be introduced to Marine squadrons 

in 2010. The Marine Corps will complete 

the transition to an all ICAP-III fleet as the 

Navy transitions out of Prowlers by 2012. 

During this transition, the Marine Corps 

will stand up an Aircrew Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) co-located with 

the Marine EA-6B fleet, ready for training in FY10. By FY2011 the USMC BAA

will increase from 20 to 32 with the addition of the FRS, test, pipeline, and attrition aircraft, all ICAP-III configured. The 

Prowler community will continue training aircrew through 2016, when sundown 

will commence with approximately one 

squadron standing down per year until 

complete in 2019. There will be no single 

platform to follow the EA-6B, rather the 

EW capability for the Marine Air Ground 

Task Force (MAGTF) will be captured 

across numerous airborne and ground 

systems. MAGTF EW will comprise both 

manned and unmanned surface, air and 

space-based assets, fully networked and 

collaborating to provide the MAGTF and 

Joint Force Commanders the ability to 

dominate the EM spectrum at the time 

and place of their choosing.
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Aviation Ground Support (AGS) 

The Marine Wing Support Group 

(MWSG) provides the functional support necessary to enable Marine Aviation 

operations in an expeditionary environment; these capabilities are also relevant 

to the Joint Force Commander on the 

battlefield, where forward basing and 

rapid aviation support might be required. 

Aviation Ground Support is scalable and 

sustainable, but must continue to modernize to support current and future Air 

Combat Element (ACE) expeditionary 

operations. The MWSG and Marine Wing 

Support Squadrons (MWSS) are undergoing several equipment and structure 

refinements and capability enhancements 

to rapidly plan, deploy, and provide AGS 

to the ACE Commander’s training and 

wartime requirements. Additionally, the 

MWSGs and MWSSs seek to integrate 

improvements in logistics processes 

and information technologies as part 

of the current Logistics Modernization 

(LOGMOD) initiatives.

The Future Of Aviation 

Ground Support 

Capability Enhancements

Continued operational, training and 

equipment enhancements will keep AGS 

on par with evolving Marine Corps future operational and logistics concepts. 

Future AGS capability must provide measured AGS; that is, precise amounts of fuel, 

ammunition, logistics and ACE-specific 

services at a time and place of the ACE

Commanders’ choosing. The MWSS will 

maintain its core capability to establish and 

operate one Forward Operating Base (FOB/

main airfield) and two Forward Arming 

and Refueling Points (FARPs) simultaneously. Embedded within the MWSS will be 

tasked-organized and equipped capability 

sets (internal to the squadrons and loaded 

aboard Maritime Prepositioning Force 

ships) that can be rapidly employed for 

ACE mission tasking.

Through capability enhancements, 

the MWSS will reduce its footprint ashore 

and have the ability to set up rapidly, provide necessary AGS for short-duration 

operations, displace and relocate within 

minutes. Using mobility to reduce vulnerability will be central to ACE force protection; the reintegration of military police 

into the MAW enables self-defense capability should the ACE be engaged at FOB 

and FARP sites. 

ACE Command and Control

Key to the effective sustainment of the 

ACE and Marine Air Ground Task Force 

(MAGTF) fight will be a greater level of 

integration into the ACE command and 

information architecture. To ensure seamless mission planning and operations for 

AGS, the MWSS Aviation Ground Support Operations Center (AGSOC) will be 

linked to the ACE command information 

network and site command network to 

monitor ACE support requirements, provide increased situational awareness to 

higher and adjacent commands, and to act 
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119

rapidly to support ACE operations. 

Logistics Integration

The integration of all logistics assets 

ashore will be a critical enabler to MAGTF 

operations. Interoperability between the 

Logistics Combat Element (LCE) and the 

MWSS must be seamless. The MAGTF 

Logistics Integration (MLI) initiative between the departments of Aviation and 

Installations and Logistics will continue 

to ensure that combat service support and 

AGS continue to seek integrated processes, 

systems, command and control, and missions planning.

Expeditionary Airfield / Aircraft Rescue 

and Fire Fighting Modernization 

The AGS modernization initiative 

will ensure that the MWSS is capable of 

supporting the ACE during Expeditionary Maneuver Warfare operations. The intent of the Expeditionary Airfield (EAF) / 

Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) 

modernization initiative is to provide a 

more rapidly deployable, maneuverable, 

and responsive expeditionary airfield capability that supports advanced aviation 

technologies, such as the MV-22 Osprey 

and F-35B Lightning II (JSF). EAF/ARFF 

Modernization programs include:

• Advanced lightweight matting capable of supporting F-35B Lightning II operations

• Man portable, all-weather airfield lighting 

systems

• Rapidly deployable, self contained, airfield 

damage-repair systems

• Modernized firefighting vehicles and systems

Meteorological Mobile Facility 

Replacement–Next Generation The next-generation Meteorological 

Mobile Facility Replacement (METMF(R) 

NEXTGEN) will replace the legacy METMF (R) “weather van” and provide networked meteorological capability throughout the area of operations using a High 

Mobility Multi-Wheeled Vehicle mounted 

facility capable of providing real-time environmental sensing and weather data in 

support of the ACE during expeditionary 

operations. The METMF(R) NEXGEN

will enable the Marine METOC analyst 

to effectively turn relevant environmental 

data into actionable intelligence, which in 

turn will facilitate timely operational decision-making.

Regional Meteorological Centers 

The Regional Meteorological Centers 

(RMC) became operational in Fiscal Year 

2008 and provide consolidated hubs on 

each coast (Cherry Point, North Carolina, and Miramar, California) to distribute 

meteorological forecast, weather alerts 

and tactical weather products to Marine 

Corps Air Stations and Facilities in the 

continental United States. The RMC also 

serves as a training center for meteorological center (METOC) personnel and 

ensures that entry-level METOC personnel are adequately trained to provide support to the ACE during in garrison as well 

as expeditionary operations.

AGS Expansion

The expansion of AGS capability will include the establishment of an 

MWSS detachment to support Marine 

Air Group(MAG)-24 and Marine Aviation units operating in Hawaii and Guam. 

Requirements will continue to be monitored to ensure that AGS capabilities 

are adequate to support the emerging 

MAG-24 operational and logistics needs.
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Theater Battle Management Core System (TBMCS)

Description

Theater Battle Management Core System (TBMCS) is an airwar planning tool 

mandated by the Chairman, Joint Chiefs 

of Staff for the generation, dissemination 

and execution of the Air Tasking Order/

Airspace Control Order (ATO/ACO). 

The host system resides with the Aviation 

Command Element in the Tactical Air 

Command Center (TACC) with remote 

systems located throughout the Marine 

Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) to 

allow dynamic mission updates.

Operational Impact

TBMCS is the principal aviation 

command-and-control tool within the 

Marine Air Command and Control Systems and the Theater Air Ground System 

for the development and execution of the 

ATO. It is a key system that supports ATO

planning and development, and provides 

the automated tools necessary to generate, disseminate and execute the ATO/

ACO in joint, coalition and USMC-only 

contingencies. 

Program Status

TBMCS version 1.1.3 is now fielded 

throughout the Operating Forces and 

the joint community. Service Pack 18 

is currently being fielded during 2009. 
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Description

The F-35B Lightning II Short TakeOff Vertical Landing Joint Strike Fighter 

is a single-engine, stealthy, supersonic 

strike-fighter aircraft capable of short 

take-offs and vertical landings ashore 

and at sea. The multi-capable JSF combat 

system will combine the basing flexibility 

of the AV-8B with the multi-role capabilities, speed and maneuverability of the 

F/A-18 to fulfill the Marine Corps airto-ground and air-to-air requirements, 

while being co-located with Marine Air 

Groung Task Force (MAGTF) maneuver 

elements in support of the commander’s 

intent. The very low radar cross-section, 

superior sensor integration and robust 

net-enabled capabilities far exceed even 

the most advanced legacy aircraft in the 

areas of survivability, lethality and supportability. Designed from the outset with 

all six functions of Marine air in mind, 

the F-35B will ensure that the MAGTF 

commander can maneuver in time and 

space at his discretion, will be able to 

deliver kinetic, non-kinetic and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance 

(ISR) resources, scaled appropriately, precisely when and where they are needed. 

The F-35B will replace the Marine Corps’ 

AV-8B and F/A-18A/C/D fleets, as well 

as become a critical node in the future 

of MAGTF Electronic Warfare (EW), affirming a tremendous growth potential 

as the JSF matures into the premier nextgeneration weapons system.

Operational Impact

The STOVL JSF provides a multimission offensive air support and an offensive/ defensive anti-air capability. The 

STOVL JSF also provides the MAGTF 

with a platform capable of tactical air 

control and tactical reconnaissance. Additionally, the aircraft will be able to provide destruction of enemy air defenses 

in addition to electronic warfare — both 

electronic surveillance and electronic attack. The requirements for this aircraft 

are focused on readiness, the combined 

arms concept, expeditionary capability 

and the ability to conduct Expeditionary 

Maneuver Warfare. The F-35B is intended 

to be a MAGTF integrator, bringing capabilities to the decision maker, where he is 

in the battle space.

Program Status

The JSF is a joint program with the 

Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and the 

United Kingdom as Level I partners. Additional international partners are Italy, 

The Netherlands, Canada, Denmark, 

Norway, Turkey and Australia. After reassessing the program baseline, the Systems 

Development and Demonstration (SDD) 

F-35B Lightning II Short Take-Off Vertical Landing (STOVL) Joint 

Strike Fighter (JSF)
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phase is scheduled to last until 2013. The 

SDD phase will include the certification 

of various precision engagement capabilities, as well as cutting-edge sensor fusion 

that will directly support the MAGTF and 

Joint Force Commanders. Since completing the critical design review, the prime 

contractor has begun assembling the long 

lead items in preparation for starting Low 

Rate Initial Production. The first STOVL

test article, BF-1, successfully completed 

first flight in June 2008. Additional test 

articles are in production and will be 

ready to begin a robust developmental 

test schedule followed by operational test 

where the design will be evaluated for operational suitability and employment with 

our operating forces. Initial Operational 

Capability is scheduled for 2012.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 7 16

Developer/Manufacturer:

Air Vehicle: Lockheed Martin, Northrop 

Grumman, and British Aerospace 

Engineering

Propulsion: Pratt & Whitney and 
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General Electric

The Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) will be 

the next-generation strike-fighter for the 

U.S. Marine Corps, Air Force, Navy and 

United Kingdom (UK). The JSF family of 

aircraft includes the short takeoff, vertical 

landing (STOVL) variant for the Marine 

Corps and UK, conventional takeoff and 

landing (CTOL) for the Air Force and aircraft carrier-capable (CV) variant for the 

Navy. Commonality among the variants 

helps reduce both development and lifecycle costs, and will result in the greatest 

“bang for the buck” compared to developing three separate aircraft. The JSF will replace the AV-8B and F/A-18A/C/D in the 

Marine Corps, the F-16C and A-10 in the 

Air Force and the F/A-18C in the Navy. 

The F-35 will incorporate advanced 

mission systems, including the Active 

Electronically Scanned Array radar 

(AESA), Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) and Distributed Aperture 

System (DAS). AESA, EOTS and DAS 

information will be incorporated into a 

pilot’s helmet-mounted display system, 

negating the need for a traditional headsup display in the cockpit. 

The Marine Corps’ F-35B will be capable of operating from aircraft cariers, 

“L” class amphibious assault ships, main 

operating bases and austere sites ashore. 

The STOVL F-35B will provide the Marine Corps with a low observable, stateof-the-art, high performance, multi-role 

offensive aircraft. The JSF Operational 

Requirements Document stipulates the F35B will have a 450-nautical mile combat 

radius when employed from a ship and 

be capable of 550-foot short takeoffs with 

a full internal payload (two 1,000-pound 

class weapons and two air-to-air missiles) 

on ship-launched missions. The United 

Kingdom’s Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, 

and the Italian Navy will employ the 

STOVL variant aboard their air-capable 

ships. Several other U.S. Foreign Military 

Sales (FMS) countries have also expressed 

interest in the F-35B.

The Corps will employ the F-35B 

to support the six functions of Marine 

Corps Aviation. This remarkable breadth 

of employment will allow the Marine 

Corps to decrease its tactical aviation 

(Tac-Air) inventory, while increasing lethality, survivability, and supportability 

when compared to legacy aircraft. The 

Marine Corps’ requirement for STOVL is 

420 aircraft allowing the Corps to field an 

“all-STOVL force”.

The current JSF acquisition strategy 

continues to reflect the Marine Corps’ 

vision of an “all-STOVL” force. In accordance with an August 2002 Memorandum of Understanding among the Secretary of the Navy, Commandant of the 

Marine Corps and the Chief of Naval Operations, the Marine Corps’ strategy will 

Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) Transition Plan
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

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be maintained until a fair and equitable 

analysis of the CV and STOVL variants 

can be conducted. 

Once the F-35B begins entering service, the Marine Corps will begin retirement of AV-8Bs and F/A-18 Hornets. As 

currently planned, all legacy strike TacAir 

platforms should be retired by 2024. The 

Corps will incorporate an airborne electronic attack capability into the baseline 

F-35 to address the eventual retirement 

of EA-6B Prowlers. This EA capability 

in STOVL will compose a portion of the 

system-of systems-approach where our 

electronic warfare capabilities are distributed across manned and unmanned 

aerial systems.

The STOVL F-35B JSF is absolutely 

critical to the success of the Marine Corps, 

as it will solve the significant problems of 

age and attrition currently facing Marine 

TacAir. The combination of stealth, basing flexibility and superior performance 

will revolutionize air warfare and Naval 

Aviation in the 21st Century.
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MV-22 Osprey Program

Description

The MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor is an advanced-technology Vertical/Short Takeoff 

and Landing (V/STOL), multi-purpose 

tactical aircraft that will replace the current 

fleet of Vietnam-era CH-46E aircraft. The 

MV-22 will join the Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle and Landing Craft Air Cushion 

as an integral part of the Seabasing pillars 

necessary to execute Expeditionary Maneuver Warfare. Specific missions include 

expeditionary assault from land or sea, raid 

operations, medium cargo lift, tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel, fleet logistics support and special warfare. The MV22’s design incorporates the sophisticated, 

but mature, technologies of composite 

materials, fly-by-wire flight controls, digital cockpits, airfoil design, and advanced 

manufacturing processes. The MV-22 Osprey has a 350 nautical mile (nm) combat 

radius, cruises at 255 knots and is capable 

of carrying 24 combat-equipped Marines 

or a 10,000 pound external load. With a 

2,100 nm single aerial refueling range, the 

aircraft also has a strategic self-deployment 

capability. The MV-22’s prop-rotor system, 

engine and transmissions (collectively referred to as the nacelle) are mounted on 

each wing tip and allow it to operate as a 

helicopter for takeoff and landing. Once 

airborne, the nacelles rotate forward 90 

degrees, transitioning the MV-22 into a 

high-speed, high-altitude, fuel-efficient, 

turbo-prop aircraft. The MV-22 is a multimission aircraft designed for use by all the 

services. The Marine Corps, Navy, and Air 

Force are committed to the fielding of this 

unique aircraft.

The Marine Corps’ transition from the 

CH-46E to the MV-22 began with HMM263 in June 2005, when the first group of 

maintenance Marines entered training at 

Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New 

River. The remainder of the CH-46E and 

one CH-53D squadron are anticipated to 

transition to the Osprey at the rate of two 

squadrons per year.

Operational Impact

The MV-22 will be the cornerstone 

of Marine Corps’ assault support capability, possessing the speed, endurance, and 

survivability needed to fight and win on 

tomorrow’s battlefield. This combat multiplier represents a quantum improvement in strategic mobility and tactical 

flexibility for expeditionary and Maritime 

Prepositioning Forces.

Program Status

The MV-22 reached Initial Operational Capability (IOC) in June 2007. The 

MV-22 is currently deployed and in direct 

support of Marine Air Ground Task Force 

(MAGTF) combat operations. Produc-
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tion of the MV-22 continues to be based 

on a block production strategy, which is 

designed to provide continual life-cycle 

and capability improvements over the life 

of the platform. Block A series aircraft 

are designed to serve as non-deployable, 

training aircraft only and include software 

enhancements, a nacelle reconfiguration, 

and additional reliability and maintainability improvements over the original 

aircraft design. 29 Block A aircraft have 

been delivered and are in service at MCAS 

New River. Block B series aircraft are the 

deployable configuration of the MV-22 

Osprey. These aircraft provide improvements in effectiveness and maintainability 

for operators and maintainers, including 

improved access to the nacelle for inspection purposes as well as substantial reliability and maintenance improvements 

across the entire platform. As of 1 August 

2008, 33 Block B aircraft had been delivered to the fleet. Block C series aircraft 

incorporate mission enhancements and 

increase operational capability. Enhancements include the addition of weather 

radar, a forward-firing ALE-47 dispenser, 

improved hover coupled features, an improved environmental conditioning system, and a troop commander situational 

awareness station. The first Block C aircraft are projected to be delivered to the 

fleet in Fiscal Year 2012.

Procurement Profile:

(Block B): FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 30 30

Developer/Manufacturer:

Bell Helicopter Textron, Fort Worth, TX

The Boeing Company, Philadelphia, PA
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H-1 Upgrade (UH-1Y Huey/AH-1Z Cobra) 

Description

The H-1 Upgrade Program (UH-1Y/

AH-1Z) replaces the current two-bladed 

rotor system on the UH-1N and AH-1W 

aircraft with a new four-bladed, all-composite rotor system that is coupled with 

a sophisticated, fully integrated, stateof-the-art cockpit. The UH-1Y and AH1Z also incorporate a new performance 

matched transmission, a four-bladed tail 

rotor and drive system, and upgraded 

landing gear. Additionally, structural 

modifications to the AH-1Z provide the 

aircraft with six weapons stations — two 

more than the AH-1W. The advanced 

cockpit, common to both aircraft, reduces operator workload, improves situational awareness and provides growth 

potential for future weapons and joint interoperability. The cockpit integrates onboard planning, communications, digital 

fire control, self-contained navigation, 

night targeting and weapons systems in 

mirror-imaged crew stations. The UH-1Y 

and AH-1Z are approximately 84 percent 

common throughout, which significantly 

benefits Marine Air Ground Task Force 

(MAGTF) supportability. Developmental 

testing of the UH-Y and AH-1Z has demonstrated a marked increase in aircraft 

agility, maximum continuous speed, and 

payload.

Operational Impact

The H-1 Upgrade Program (UH-1Y/ 

AH-1Z) resolves existing operational 

UH-1N power margin and AH-1W aircrew workload issues while significantly 

enhancing the tactical capability, operational effectiveness and sustainability of 

our attack and utility helicopter fleet. 

The Marine Corps’ UH-1Ns are reaching 

the ends of their useful lives. Due to airframe and engine fatigue, they routinely 

take-off at maximum gross weight with 

no margin for error. Rapidly fielding the 

UH-1Y remains a Marine Corps Aviation priority with the first deployment of 

UH-1Ys scheduled for the 13th MEU in 

January 2009.

Due to significant operational demands and aircraft attrition in the existing attack and utility helicopter fleet, the 

Marine Corps adopted a “build new” 

strategy for the UH-1Y. Similarly, the 

Marine Corps began investing in NonRecurring Engineering (NRE) for the 

production of a limited number of AH1Z “build new” aircraft. These AH-1Zs 

will augment the existing AH-1Ws that 

will be remanufactured. This combined 

“build new” and remanufacture strategy 

will enable the Marine Corps to rapidly 

increase the number of AH-1s available 
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to support the Marine Corps’ growth 

to 202K Marines while moderating the 

inventory short-falls caused by aircraft attrition.

To fully support the Commandant’s 

202K decision three new HMLAs are 

being established. HMLA-467 stood-up 

23 October 2008. HMLA-469 will standup in June 2009 and HMLA-567 in FY11.

Program Status

Twenty-five production aircraft (19 

UH-1Ys/6 AH-1Zs) have been delivered 

through FY2008. Operation and Evaluation (OPEVAL) Phase II completed 

23 April 2008, and showcased the 

strengths of the upgraded aircraft. Full 

Rate Production of the UH-1Y (and the 

contract award of Lot 5 aircraft) date will 

be set at the DAB, 17 September 2008. The 

UH-1Ys reached Initial Operational 

Capability (IOC) on 8 August 2008. The 

AH-1Z testing continues to proceed with 

the plan to IOC in FY11. The new total 

program objective is 123 UH-1Ys and 

226 AH-1Zs.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 16 28

Developer/Manufacturer:

Bell Helicopter Textron Inc., Fort Worth, TX

Integrated Cockpit: Northrop Grumman, 

Woodland Hills, CA

AH-1Z Target Sight System: Lockheed 

Martin, Orlando, FL
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Description

The KC-130 is a versatile four-engine, 

tactical aerial refueler/assault support aircraft. It is the only long-range, fixed-wing, 

assault-support capability organic to the 

Marine Corps. The KC-130J, with its increase in speed (+20 percent) and range 

(+35 percent) compared to legacy aircraft, 

features an improved air-to-air refueling 

system and a state-of-the-art flight station. A Rolls Royce AE 2100D3 propulsion system, Dowty R391 advanced technology six-bladed propeller system and a 

250-knot cargo ramp and door complete 

the package, which provides the Marine 

Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) commander with a state-of-the-art, multimission, tactical aerial-refueler/assaultsupport transport asset well into the 

21st Century. All of the legacy KC-130 

aircraft will be replaced with KC-130Js 

which will culminate in one Type/Model/Series tactical aerial refueler/assault 

support aircraft for the Marine Corps.

Operational Impact

The KC-130J provides the following 

capabilities: tactical in-flight refueling for 

fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and tilt-rotor 

aircraft; rapid ground refueling of aircraft 

or tactical vehicles; assault air transport of 

air-landed or aerial-delivered personnel 

and equipment; airborne command and 

control augmentation; pathfinder; battlefield illumination; tactical aero-medical 

evacuation; and Tactical Recovery of 

Aircraft and Personnel (TRAP) support. 

This force multiplier is well suited to the 

mission needs of the forward-deployed 

MAGTF. With its satellite communications system capability, survivability enhancements, aerial refueling and rapid 

ground refueling capabilities, and improved aircraft systems reliability, the 

KC-130J will bring increased capability 

and mission flexibility to combat planning and operations.

Program Status

The Marine Corps requirement is 

79 aircraft. The KC-130J is procured as 

a commercial-off-the-shelf aircraft currently in production. Current programming brings the total number of KC-130J 

aircraft to 46. Initial Operational Capability was achieved in 2005.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 2 0

Developer/Manufacturer:

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company

KC-130 Hercules
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Description

The CH-53E Super Stallion is a threeengine, long-range, heavy-lift helicopter 

that has been key to the assault support 

function of Marine Aviation. However, 

the CH-53E cannot support the range 

and payload requirements necessary to 

the Marine Corps future war-fighting 

concepts. A sustainment strategy has 

been implemented to address critical 

fatigue, obsolescence, and reliability issues, until the aircraft can be replaced. A

comprehensive re-design of the Marine 

Corps heavy-lift platform, focusing on 

reliability, maintainability, cost of ownership and performance, is required to effectively meet Marine Air Ground Task 

Force (MAGTF) and joint warfighting 

requirements during the next 25 years. 

The CH-53K program, formerly known 

as the Heavy Lift Replacement Program, 

is the solution to maintaining a heavy-lift 

capability beyond the year 2025. The CH53K is a derivative design of the existing 

CH-53E, remaining within the same shipboard footprint, and is critical to properly 

and cost-effectively support sea-based Expeditionary Maneuver Warfare (EMW) 

for the Marine Corps in the 21st Century. 

The CH-53K will provide the Marine 

Corps with the ability to transport 27,000 

pounds of cargo out to 110 nautical miles 

(nm), generating more than twice the lift 

capability of the CH-53E under the same 

conditions. Major system improvements 

of the new-build helicopter include: larger 

and more capable engines, an expanded 

gross weight airframe, an enhanced drive 

train, advanced composite rotor blades, a 

modern interoperable cockpit, improved 

external and internal cargo handling 

systems, and increased survivability and 

force protection.

Operational Impact

Maintainability and reliability enhancements of the CH-53K will significantly decrease recurring operating costs 

and radically improve capability over the 

current CH-53E, whose operating costs 

are estimated to exceed $27,000 cost per 

flight hour in 2015. The CH-53K will 

vastly improve the ability of the MAGTF 

and Joint Task Force to project and sustain forces ashore from a sea-based center 

of operations in support of EMW, Ship to 

Objective Maneuver, and Distributed Operations. The performance improvements 

will enable the vertical insertion of two 

combat loaded Up-Armored High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicles, one 

Light Armored Vehicle, or three 9,000-lb 

sustainment loads to three separate landing zones. The reliability, maintainability, 

and cost of ownership improvements will 

allow all of this to happen more efficiently 

and at a lower cost.

CH-53K Heavy Lift Helicopter
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Program Status

The operational requirements document completed joint staffing and was 

signed in 2004. The program achieved 

Milestone B in December 2005, and the 

System Development and Demonstration 

contract was awarded in April 2006. Initial operational capability will be reached 

in 2015.
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The Marine Corps has employed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) since 1986.. 

The demand for Intelligence, Surveillance, 

and Reconnaissance (ISR) support continues to grow and clearly highlights the increased need for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in the Marine Corps. To fulfill 

this need, the Marine Unmanned Aerial 

Vehicle Squadron (VMU) has begun an 

organizational transformation that will 

lead to a flexible, scaleable, detachmentbased squadron. 

The Marine Corps’ UAS concept of 

employment is divided into three tiers, each 

coinciding with the echelon of command 

they support. The Marine Corps Combat 

Development Command (MCCDC) has 

completed the Marine Corps UAS Family of Systems concept of operations and 

the USMC overarching capabilities study 

which will refine the requirements for the 

USMC Family of UAS Systems.

The Marine Corps’ Tier I UAS-Dragon 

Eye and Raven-B are nominally employed 

at the company level and below with great 

success in Operation Iraqi Freedom and 

Operation Enduring Freedom. The Dragon Eye UAS; achieved Initial Operational 

Capability (IOC) in June 2004. The Marine Corps is currently transitioning from 

Dragon Eye to the Joint Small UAS, RavenB, which has been selected by the Army 

and the U.S. Special Operations Command. There are currently 135 Dragon Eye 

systems flying in early 2009, and the Marine Corps plans to procure 348 Raven-B 

systems — three air vehicles per system — 

to replace the Dragon Eye. In addition to 

Raven, the USMC is also purchasing 135 

micro-UAVs, the Wasp, to serve in Iraq 

and Afghanistan.

The Marine Division, Regiment, Battalion and Marine Expeditionary Unit 

(MEU) commanders will be supported by 

the Tier II UAS. The Marine Corps oversees six Scan Eagle UAS systems under a 

fee-for-service agreement to fill a capability gap in OIF and two additional Scan Eagle systems in OEF. The current contract 

will continue to provide this capability 

through 2010 while a full program of record is developed. The multi-service sponsored Tier II UAS program Initial Capabilities Document (ICD) was approved by 

the Joint Requirement Oversight Council 

in December 2006. The program of record 

has a planned IOC in 2011.

The Marine Corps’ Tier III UAS serves 

the Joint Task Force (JTF)/Marine Air 

Ground Task Force (MAGTF) commander. The RQ-7B Shadow is the USMC’s interim Tier III UAS.

The Marine Corps transitioned to the 

Shadow system during the fourth quarter of Fiscal Year 2007 and deployed the 

Shadow-capable VMU to support current 

OIF operations in September 2007. In OIF, 

Shadows have provided the ISR necessary to make the difference between success and failure. Using electro-optical and 

infrared cameras and communications 

relay payloads, ground units have visual 

access to their areas of responsibility and 

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)
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routes, and force protection enhancers prior to, during and after their missions. By 

FY 2011, the Marine Corps will increase 

the number of Shadow systems in each 

VMU from one to three, and reorganize 

the squadron’s manpower into three detachments, essentially tripling the capability of the VMU without increasing the 

required manpower. Additionally, the 

Marine Corps stood-up a third VMU in 

September 2008. Initially home-based at 

Marine Corps Air- Ground Combat Command in Twenty-Nine Palms, California, 

VMU-3 will eventually move to better 

support III Marine Expeditionary Force. 

This will greatly increase the MAGTF’s 

UAS capacity and operational-tempo flexibility. A fourth VMU, in the Reserves, is 

scheduled to begin stand-up in FY 2010 

and reach IOC by FY 2011. 
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The Marine Corps presently operates 

four different types of aircraft to fill its 

operational support airlift (OSA) requirements: the C-9 Skytrain, UC-12 King Air 

Orion, C-20G Gulfstream IV and UC-35 

Citation 560 Ultra and Encore. OSA aircraft provide air logistics support to our 

warfighters by moving high-priority passengers and cargo between and within 

theaters of operation. OSA aircraft carry 

out short-notice, time-critical logistical 

air movements, relieving front-line tactical squadrons from this necessary but 

non-tactical mission. By freeing our tactical aircraft assets from routine missions, 

OSA aircraft are an effective combat multiplier for the Marine Air Ground Task 

Force (MAGTF), joint force and regional 

combatant commanders. In peacetime, 

OSA aircraft are used to provide logistic 

support to ensure military effectiveness 

in support of national defense, essential 

training for operational personnel, and 

cost effective seasoning of pilots. Examples (by type of aircraft) that illustrate Marine Corps OSA’s relevance to the Global 

War on Terrorism (GWOT) include the 

following: 

• The C-9 provided airlift support to MAGTF-8, 

the lead element of a multinational interim 

force following the resignation of Haitian 

President Jean-Bertrand Aristide in February 

2004. They also transported Marine Corps 

forces and equipment to and from Southwest Asia. 

• The UC-12 was deployed to Kuwait and Iraq 

in support of I Marine Expeditionary Force 

during Operation Iraqi Freedom, where these 

aircraft delivered key combat personnel and 

more than 70,000 pounds of critical cargo 

in support of the Marine forces, while also 

providing airlift support to MAGTF-8. 

• The C-20G (based at Marine Corps Air Station 

Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii) was forward-deployed 

to Bahrain in support of U.S. Marine Forces 

Pacific and the warfighters in theater during 

the opening months of Operation Enduring 

Freedom. This aircraft continues to provide 

frequent global airlift for GWOT support. 

• The UC-35 transported critically needed 

Combat Air Patrol (CAP) pilots throughout 

the United States to their respective bases 

immediately following the terrorist attacks 

of September 11, 2001. During this period, 

civilian aircraft were precluded from flying 

in the continental United States and military 

transport aircraft were employed for efficient, 

expeditious transportation of key personnel. 

Marine Corps UC-35s are currently forwarddeployed in Southwest Asia, providing invaluable daily support to the regional combatant 

commander and relief to tactical aircraft by 

moving personnel and cargo throughout the 

theater.

In the continental United States, Marine Corps OSA is managed by U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) for 

scheduling. USTRANSCOM operates the 

Joint Operational Support Aircraft Center 

to maximize use of all available continental United States OSA assets, regardless of 

service. USTRANSCOM additionally supports the MAGTF at combined exercises, 

such as Desert Talon. The incorporation 

of OSA into MAGTF exercises relieves 

participating tactical squadrons from much 

of the exercise-associated administrative 

logistical airlift requirements. This in turn 

enables the tactical squadrons to focus 

more time and resources on combatrelated flight training. 

Acquisition of relatively low-cost, 

commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) aircraft with minimal militarization provides MAGTF commanders swift, on-demand support and ensures the availability 

of short-notice, time-critical, logistical 

air support using the right type of aircraft that is fully integrated into Marine 

Corps operations.

Operational Support Airlift (OSA) 
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Marine Aviation Logistics Transformation 

Marine Aviation is reshaping our 

aviation logistics elements to enable more 

responsive, flexible and reliable combat support needed for future conflicts, 

while continuing to meet today’s readiness needs. Previously, Current Readiness (CR), End to End (E2E) AIR, and 

Marine Aviation Logistics Support Package II (MALSP II) were viewed as separate and discrete pillars to improving Marine Aviation readiness. During the next 

three years, we will aggressively mature 

these transformational strategies so they 

become mutually reinforcing and provide 

direct alignment with the Marine Corps 

Vision and Strategy 2025.

Current Readiness (CR)

Marine Aviation commanders and 

leaders, in concert with the Naval Aviation Enterprise (NAE), will plan, execute and manage the Current Readiness 

(CR) process, maximize readiness of 

equipment and people, optimize material resource allocations and expenditures and minimize logistics downtime 

and delays. Leaders will drive CR operations to align Marine Aviation with 

enabling organizations. This alignment 

will effectively and predictably achieve 

readiness levels required to produce core 

competent aviation units (squadrons/

detachments) for warfighting missions. 

Marine Aviation Logistics Support 

Program Ii (Malsp Ii)

For Marine Aviation, AIRSpeed dramatically improves expeditionary logistics for the warfighter. Specifically, the 

Naval Aviation Enterprise’s continuous 

process improvement strategy (AIR) is 

the key enabler to modernizing the timetested Marine Aviation Logistics Support 

Program (MALSP). Applying AIR, MALSP-II becomes the comprehensive aviation logistics program that expands future Aviation Combat Element’s (ACE’s) 

operational freedom of maneuver with a 

more reliable and effective logistics system that is lighter, adaptive, and proactive. MALSP-II increases Marine Avia-
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136

tion’s ability to rapidly deploy, employ, 

sustain, and redeploy in austere regions, 

as well as potential anti-access and denied-area scenarios. In addition, MALSP

II provides an improved solution set for 

addressing uncertainty, variability, and 

bottlenecks in the end-to-end wartime 

logistics chain.

Marine Aviation Logistics 

Squadron (MALS) (Future)

The introduction of new logistics 

processes and technology will significantly impact on the organization of the 

MALS of the future. Under MALS(F), 

Aviation Logistics is exploring how the 

future MALS will be organized in an AIRMALSP II environment. The analysis will 

identify notional skill sets, distribution 

capabilities and maintenance capabilities for the future MALS. The Doctrine, 

Organization, Training, Material, Leadership and Education, Personnel and 

Facilities (DOTMLPF) process provides 

the framework by which Marine Aviation will take full advantage of emerging 

technologies and systems. Autonomic 

logistics, improved information technology, advanced transportation solutions 

and enhanced industry partnerships on 

new platform acquisitions will all merge 

in defining MALS Future. 

Marine Air-Ground Task Force 

(MAGTF) Logistics Integration 

(MLI)

The Marine Air Ground Task Force 

(MAGTF) is supported by two separately 

funded logistics systems: one that supports the Aviation Combat Element of 

the MAGTF, and another, known as the 

Logistics Combat Element (LCE), that 

supports the Ground Combat Element 

(GCE). Under MLI, Marine Aviation 

Logistics is partnering with our Ground 

Logistics counterparts to integrate these 

logistics processes in support of future 

expeditionary and sea based operations.
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The Naval Aviation Enterprise (NAE) 

comprises the Aviation element of the 

Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. 

Its mission is to support combatant commanders by providing combat-ready 

Naval Aviation forces which are fully 

trained, properly manned, interoperable, 

well-maintained and combat-sustainable. 

Working within the enterprise construct brings our collective combat leadership and warrior ethos to bear on the 

difficult problems we face as we execute 

our responsibility to man, train, equip, 

and maintain the best aviation warfighters in the world. The NAE will achieve 

these goals through three main priorities: 

Current Readiness, Future Capability 

and people. 

The Marine Corps is a full partner 

within the NAE and we will continue to 

insure that Naval Aviation is stronger 

through our partnership with our Naval 

Aviation counterparts.

Naval Aviation Enterprise (NAE) FY 2009 
chapter 3

part 5 

logistics Support 
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Introduction

Logistics support to the Marine warfighter takes on many forms, involves numerous activities and spans the Marine Corps. Innovative efforts are underway at all levels 

to improve logistics business processes for the explicit purpose of providing worldclass logistics support to Marines, whether in peace or war. The Marine Corps Logistics Modernization Strategy will revolutionize how Marines are sustained in garrison 

and on the battlefield through cutting-edge technologies, process improvements, reorganization actions and the realignment of logistics functions within the Marine Expeditionary Force. Logistics initiatives are numerous and involve the combined efforts of 

every active duty, reserve and civilian Marine logistician serving today.
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Electronic Acquisition

The mission of the Electronic Business Team at Headquarters Marine Corps 

is to implement and oversee Paperless 

Acquisition Initiatives throughout the 

Marine Corps. In accomplishing this 

mission, the Marine Corps has fully adopted several electronic business systems 

in direct support of the DoD EnterpriseLevel Business Architecture. By embracing DoD enterprise solutions, the Marine 

Corps is better able to communicate and 

share information, leverage expertise and 

share lessons learned across government 

agencies. The following DoD electronic 

business systems have been fully implemented by the Marine Corps:

• Standard Procurement System (SPS)–A 

contract writing system that standardizes 

the procurement process from receipt of a 

purchase request from PR Builder through 

contract closeout — all functionality associated with cradle-to-grave contracting.

• Wide Area Workflow-Receipt and Acceptance 

(WAWF-RA) — A web-based system for 

electronic invoicing, receipt and acceptance 

required to pay a vendor.

• Electronic Document Access-Next Generation (EDA-NG) — An electronic document 

management tool that facilitates information 

sharing among DoD communities by providing access to official documents, including 

contracts and modifications.

In addition to DoD Enterprise-Level 

Business Initiatives, the Marine Corps has 

sought out internal opportunities to further Acquisition Technology and Growth. 

These initiatives include:

• Purchase Request Builder (PR Builder)–

A web-based purchase request tool that 

interfaces with the Marine Corps Financial 

System-SABRS and the Marine Corps Contract Writing System-SPS

• SeaPort-e — The Marine Corps has implemented SeaPort Enhanced (SeaPort-e), an 

electronic procurement tool used predominantly by Department of Navy commands, 

for acquiring a vast array of services, and 

provides the functionality to standardize 

the procurement process from initiation of 

requirement through award.

• Contract Management Process Guide 

(CMPG) — A web-based repository of guidance, checklists, procedures, and regulations that provides the tools and resources 

to streamline the procurement process and 

assist the Marine Corps’ Regional Contracting Offices in making intelligent procurement 

decisions.

New in FY09, the Marine Corps will 

be leasing the Army Contracting Business Intelligence System (ACBIS), which 

will provide electronic monitoring and 

oversight of our contracting actions, and 

begin use of the Electronic Subcontracting Reporting System (eSRS), an online 

source for subcontracting data across the 

Federal Government.

DoD Business Enterprise-Level Solutions, together with Marine Corps-unique 

Electronic Business System Initiatives, 

support the logistics mission of the DoD, 

which is a true end-to-end electronic procurement process.
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The Marine Corps Logistics Command Forward (MCLC-Fwd) capability 

was formed to fulfill the need to unify numerous disparate command logistics teams 

operating independently in Central Command Area of Responsibility (CENTCOM 

AOR). The Marine Expeditionary Unit 

Augmentation Program (MAP) Forwardin-Stores (FIS), Principal End item (PEI) 

Rotation, Equipment Retrograde, Reparable Issue Point and Maintenance Contact 

Teams are successful MCLC-Fwd initiatives. The MAP provides a limited equipment set within the CENTCOM Theater 

to enhance the combat readiness and responsiveness of MEUs as they conduct operations in the CENTCOM AOR and reduce the MEU equipment that is shipped 

from the continental United States (CONUS). The FIS provides for the exchange 

of damaged equipment. The PEI rotation 

program rotates new or rebuilt equipment 

into the theater to exchange for equipment 

items that have been in theater operating 

at maximum duty cycles for three-to-four 

years, increasing readiness in theater and 

integrating procurement, modernization 

and rebuild efforts to maintain operational 

availability of equipment. The Equipment 

Retrograde program facilitates the turnin of equipment which is being replaced 

by new acquisition or is no longer required for theater requirements; MLCLFwd processes the items by arranging for 

transportation to CONUS, redistributing to meet other theater requirements 

or turning the item over to Defense Reutilization Maintenance Office (DRMO). 

The Reparable Issue Point (RIP) program 

provides contractor augmentation to the 

Marine Logistics Group (MLG) RIP to 

source and manage selected secondary 

reparable rebuild/overhaul/remanufacture 

(4th OEM) and augment P3 capabilities at 

the RIP in order to expedite to issue and 

return of secondary reparables in the support of the deployed Marine Air-Ground 

Task Force (MAGTF). The Maintenance 

Contact Teams are maintenance specialists deployed periodically to fulfill specific 

tasks of limited duration, such as applying 

armor to vehicles in country. MCLC-Fwd 

is a proven concept, executing operational-level logistics and providing regional 

logistics expertise with direct reachback 

to the Marine Corps Logistics Command. 

The success of the MCLC-Fwd model provides impetus to develop additional strategies for supporting the warfighter, such 

as the MEF Support Teams with LOGCOM personnel co-located at each MEF.

Logistics Command (LOGCOM) Forward
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Logistics Modernization (Log Mod)

Logistics Modernization (Log Mod) 

is the transformation of logistics functions to be more capable, effective and 

responsive to Marine Air-Ground Task 

Force (MAGTF) operations. Log Mod is 

addressing existing logistics shortfalls, 

incorporating lessons from Operation 

Iraqi Freedom and preparing for Expeditionary Maneuver Warfare. Log Mod 

represents the most comprehensive effort 

ever implemented by the Marine Corps to 

improve tactical and operational logistics. 

Log Mod is a three-pronged improvement and integration initiative that focuses on Marine Corps people, processes 

and technology to produce a far more effective and efficient Logistics Chain Management process by:

• Using the Logistics Operational Architecture 

to support improvements to Marine Logistics 

Group (MLG) organization, enhancing command and control, and integrating our distribution, maintenance and supply capabilities.

• Modernizing and integrating Information 

Technology through the acquisition and fielding of the Global Combat Support System–

Marine Corps. 

• Modernizing human capabilities with new occupational specialties, more uniform, deployable organizational components and logistics 

education with effective change management 

and communications.

Log Mod comprises the following 

initiatives:

1. Logistics Operational Architecture

2. Command and Control for Logistics

3. MLG Reorganization

4. MAGTF Distribution

5. Realignment of Maintenance

6. Realignment of Supply 

The most visible and successful initiative is the reorganization of the Logistics 

Combat Element into MLGs. The MLGs 

now consist of direct and general support 

Combat Logistics Regiments focused on 

operational support on the battlefield, 

with the ability to rapidly task organize in 

support of any mission. 
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Global Combat Support System-Marine Corps (GCSS-MC)

Description

Global Combat Support System–

Marine Corps (GCSS–MC) is a portfolio 

of information technology (IT) systems 

that supports the logistics elements of 

Command and Control (C2), Joint logistics interoperability and secure access 

to and visibility of logistics data. At the 

core of GCSS-MC is the Logistics Chain 

Management (LCM) initiative, which is 

the incremental implementation of commercial-off-the-shelf software (Oracle 

eBusiness Suite) to enable the Logistics 

Operational Architecture (LOG OA). The 

first “Block 1” increment provides initial 

capabilities for GCSS-MC/LCM and is 

a separate acquisition program with its 

own milestone events. GCSS-MC/LCM 

Block 1 is focused on improved supply 

and maintenance capability in the operating forces and has the following goals 

attributed to it:

• State-of-the-art software to improve the combat effectiveness of the operating forces.

• Design and fielding of a single capability that 

supports common processes in deployed 

operations and garrison environments.

• Enable the Logistics Operational Architecture 

(LOG OA) business processes and improved 

business rules leading to more effective logistics support.

• Retirement of the following legacy systems: 

Supported Activities Supply System (SASSY), 

Marine Corps Integrated Maintenance Management System (MIMMS), PC MIMMS, 

Asset Tracking, Logistics, and Supply System 

(ATLASS) 

Operational Impact

The GCSS-MC portfolio and the 

GCSS-MC/LCM Block 1 initiative provide a modernized solution to an identified, critical warfighting deficiency 

in logistics information systems. It will 

facilitate change to antiquated logistics 

processes and procedures by introducing cutting-edge enabling technology in 

support of logistics operations. It will also 

align our logistics efforts with real-world 

challenges, where speed and information have replaced mass and footprint as 

the foremost attributes of combat operations. Key capabilities in GCSS-MC/LCM 

Block 1 include: (1) a multi-environment architecture, which provides for a 

CONUS enterprise environment (reflective of USMC CONUS organization) 

and a deployed Marine Air Ground Task 

Force (MAGTF) environment (“cloned” 

from the enterprise environment and 

scalable/tailored to the mission); (2) a 

Cross Domain Solution (CDS), which allows data transfer between Secure Internet Protocol Router Network (SIPRNET) 

and Nonsecure Internet Protocol Router 

Network (NIPRNET); and (3) a Mobile 

Field Service (MFS) capability, which allows for disconnected operations from the 

CONUS or deployed network. 
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Program Status

GCSS–MC is an ACAT 1A Major 

Automated Information System (MAIS). 

The program is maturing rapidly with 

direct acquisition oversight provided by 

the Department of the Navy’s Program 

Executive Office – Enterprise Information Systems (PEO-EIS). GCSS-MC/

LCM Block 1 received its Milestone 

“B” decision in June 2007. The program 

is projected to to reach IOC in FY10.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 

CONUS Enterprise 1 0

MEF 1 TBD

MEU 2 TBD

Developer/Manufacturer:

Oracle USA, Inc, Redwood Shores, CA
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The Marine Corps Small Business 

Program is instrumental to the Department of Defense and the Department of 

Navy in our joint commitment to maximize prime and subcontracting opportunities to small businesses, woman-owned 

small businesses, small disadvantaged 

business, service-disabled veteran-owned 

small businesses, historically underutilized business zone small businesses

and Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions. Small 

businesses are often more agile, flexible 

and innovative than their large counterparts. These capabilities make them 

uniquely qualified to support Marines 

wherever they serve.

To that end, the Marine Corps has 

appointed a Director for Small Business 

at Headquarters and Small Business Specialists at each Marine Corps contracting 

organization to provide training, advice 

and guidance in support of small businesses while ensuring quality solutions 

for our acquisitions and effectively supporting the warfighter.

We are energetically pursuing new 

opportunities for small businesses by 

involving the Small Business Specialist 

early in acquisition planning, improving 

market research methods, reviewing acquisition processes and increasing small 

business program awareness. 

Marine Corps Small Business Program
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Naval Logistics Integration (NLI)

On a day-to-day basis, the Naval Services maintain a persistent presence in 

forward areas. Naval Logistics Integration (NLI) focuses on sustainment and 

end-to-end logistics support to globally dispersed maritime forces, afloat and 

ashore. The basic tenets of NLI require 

that all levels of command actively improve naval logistics to the fullest extent 

possible by integrating Navy and Marine 

Corps logistics capabilities. This logistics 

integration will increase effectiveness 

and improve efficiencies through common processes and economies of scale. 

Primary focus areas include: improving 

logistics responsiveness, sustaining combat support; reducing logistics workload 

afloat and ashore and funding recapitalization of the Naval Service integrated logistics process.

To date, NLI has enabled dramatic 

improvements in sustaining deployed 

Navy and Marine Corps operating forces. 

For example, the Marine Expeditionary 

Units (MEUs) are using the Navy’s Cargo 

Routing Information File (CRIF) to accurately track ship movements. As a result, customer wait-time for high-priority 

material requisitions has been reduced 

by 50 percent, with the MEU’s reporting 

receipt within 10 days. In addition, the 

Navy’s Advanced Traceability and Control (ATAC) system has been fielded to 

Marine Logistics Combat Element (LCE) 

units. ATAC expedited the return of more 

than 120,713 repairable component shipments valued in excess of $325 million.

As part of logistics support ashore, 

the NLI program is exploring new initiatives for the integration and optimization 

of critical Navy and Marine Corps logistics capabilities. These ashore initiatives 

include common acquisition of ground, 

personal protective and chemical-biological protective equipment; common 

depot-level maintenance capacity management; common equipment maintenance at the tactical level; and common 

material requisitioning capabilities. Once 

mature, the ashore initiatives will become 

the norm for future naval operations in 

naval, joint and coalition environments. 

Naval Expeditionary Logistics provide an 

essential capability across the full range 

of joint military, allied and inter-agency 

operations for both ground and aviation 

Marine units. The NLI end-state objective 

is to establish an integrated logistics capability that can operate seamlessly whether 

afloat or ashore and successfully sustain 

naval units in a joint warfighting environment.
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 The Marines Corps’ future vision 

of highly maneuverable, highly flexible, decentralized operations requires 

a similar approach to logistics. Future 

operations, especially those involving 

Enhanced Company Operations (ECO) 

and Ship-to-Objective Maneuver (STOM), 

as well as Security Cooperation, require 

an adaptable, flexible and responsive logistic system. Sense and Respond Logistics (S&RL) embody these characteristics. S&RL accommodates the critical 

elements of high rates of change, closely 

coupled events, speed of command and 

self-synchronization.

 With information technology, S&RL

receives, recognizes and responds to 

consumption and requirement patterns 

through the use of equipment embedded Intelligent Agents. S&RL leverages 

the capabilities of network-enabled forces 

to share logistics information, share a 

common perspective of the battle space, 

provide early awareness of consumption 

and needs, allow commitment tracking and allow for reconfiguration of the 

logistics system when needed. It will tell 

the Commander “how much fight is left” 

in his units.

In order to implement S&RL, the 

Navy and Marine Corps must pursue a 

network-enabled approach to operations 

that greatly improves the integration 

between operations and logistics. A key 

element to supporting S&RL is the use 

of actionable information received 

through Autonomic Logistics (AL). Under the Naval Logistics Integration (NLI), 

the Marine Corps, Navy and Office of 

Naval Research (ONR) are working on 

bringing S&RL and AL capabilities to 

Marine Corps units, and shore units of 

the Naval Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC).

AL enhances logistics capability by 

providing the time-relevant readiness 

status of the operational forces in order 

to sustain them in a manner that expands 

the tactical flexibility and operational 

reach of the MAGTF. The first tangible 

effort to deploy an AL capability to the 

operating forces will be the Embedded 

Platform Logistics System (EPLS), which 

will provide the hardware and software to 

enable increased and real-time operational visibility of selected weapon systems. 

Sense and Respond Logistics (S&RL)
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Autonomic Logistics (AL)

Description

The Autonomic Logistics (AL) system 

will enable Marine Corps ground tactical equipment to autonomically monitor 

and report health and logistics needs to 

key decision makers. A key element of 

the enterprise logistics modernization efforts, the AL vision combines Sense and 

Respond Logistics with Condition Based 

Maintenance to provide enhanced visibility, logistical support, diagnostics, and 

prognostics. Optimizing support and sustainment is dependent on the accelerated 

delivery of actionable information whose 

collection and analysis is not burdensome 

to the warfighter. This information is exploited through the capability resident 

in the Global Information Grid to create 

situational awareness critical to Marine 

Corps and Joint Force commanders and 

to deliver Joint Logistics to the point of 

need with precision.

Operational Impact

AL transforms delivery of Joint Logistics by providing critical insight to 

decision makers. Armed with a clearer 

picture of combat potential available with 

AL, commanders can leverage their resources to maximize warfighting effects.

Program Status

The Marine Corps has awarded a 

contract for Block I of Autonomic Logistics (aka Embedded Platform Logistics 

System) which will provide hardware 

and software to collect and process operational status and system health. Block 

I will provide the capability to 878 Light 

Armored Vehicle, 1057 Assault Amphibious Vehicle, and 5204 Medium Tactical 

Vehicle Replacements. AL Block I will 

is scheduled for production in fiscal 

year 2009.

AL Block II capabilities will include 

the ability to feed AL data into the Global 

Combat Support System-Marine Corps, 

automating the process of requesting repair parts and support services. AL Block 

III capabilities will include the ability to 

feed AL data into Global Command and 

Control System, providing enhanced 

platform readiness information for use in 

current and future operational planning. 

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 1018 6121

Developer/Manufacturer:

Lockheed Martin Simulation and Training 

Systems, Orlando, FL 
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Description

The Marine Corps Family of Material 

Handling Equipment (MHE) encompasses a wide variety of material-handling assets, ranging from light forklifts to heavy 

cranes and container handlers. Specific 

systems include the Rough-Terrain Container Handler; Extended Boom Forklift; 

Light-Capability, Rough-Terrain Forklift; High-speed, High-mobility Crane; 

Air Mobile Crane; Mobile Welding 

Shop; and, Multi-Purpose, Rubber-Tired 

Articulated Tractor.

Operational Impact

Procurement of these systems will ensure that Logistics Combat Element entities have the ability to support the scheme 

of maneuver and logistical requirements 

of their supported Marine Air Ground 

Task Force.

Program Status

The Family of MHE program maintains the Marine Corps’ material handling and transportation support capability. As such, various items are replaced as 

determined appropriate by the life cycle 

manager, Program Manager Engineer 

Systems. Specific items may be managed 

as acquisition or abbreviated-acquisition 

programs. However, there are several 

acquisition programs in progress at any 

point in time.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: Various Various

Developer/Manufacturer:

Extended boom forklift: JLG Industries, 

Inc., McConnellsburg, PA

Light-capability, rough-terrain forklift: Terex 

American Crane, Wilmington, NC

Multi-purpose, rubber-tired, articulatedsteering tractor: John Deere, Davenport, IA

All Terrain Crane: TEREX DEMAG 

CRANES Stafford VA/Germany

Rough Terrain Container Handler: 

Kalmar LLC, San Antonio, TX

Tactical Welding Shop: Power 

Manufacturing, Covington, TN

*Various types

Family of Material Handling Equipment (MHE)
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Logistics Vehicle System Replacement (LVSR)

Description

The Logistics Vehicle System Replacement (LVSR) will replace the current 

Marine Corps heavy-tactical wheeled vehicle, the Logistics Vehicle System (LVS). 

As the Marine Corps’ heavy-tactical distribution system, the LVSR Cargo variant 

will transport bulk liquids (fuel and water); ammunition; standardized containers; bulk, breakbulk, palletized cargo and, 

bridging equipment. The LVSR Wrecker 

variant will perform heavy wrecker recovery missions, while the LVSR Tractor 

variant will tow heavy engineer equipment and combat vehicles with the M870 

series 40 / 50 ton Medium Heavy Equipment Trailers (MHETs). The LVSR will 

be employed throughout the Marine 

Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) in the 

Marine Logistics Group (MLG), Marine 

Divisions (MAR DIVs), and Marine Aircraft Wings (MAWs).

Operational Impact

To successfully accomplish its mission, MAGTFs require a heavy ground 

logistics distribution system that is highly 

mobile, efficient, extremely reliable, and 

flexible. This system must be capable of 

operating over increased distances, with 

increased payloads, to meet the demands 

of Expeditionary Maneuver Warfare. The 

LVSR will rapidly distribute all classes of 

supply, while including a self-loading/ 

unloading capability to reduce dependence on external material handling 

equipment.

Program Status

The LVSR Cargo variant completed 

Production Verification Testing (PVT) 

and Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E) and Live Fire Test and 

Evaluation (LFT&E) during 2007 - 2008. 

Likewise, the LVSR Wrecker and Tractor 

variants underwent Pre-Production Qualification (PPQT) testing during 2007 and 

2008. Successful completion of test and 

evaluation led to a Full Rate Production 

(FRP) decision in October 2008 for the 

Cargo variant. The Tractor and Wrecker 

variants will require a Milestone C decision to enter into Low Rate Initial Production during the first Quarter FY2009. 

The LVSR Approved Acquisition Objective (AAO) calls for 1,841 Cargo variants, 

408 Tractors and 148 Wreckers. 

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 554 584

Developer/Manufacturer:

Oshkosh Corporation, Oshkosh, WI
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Innovation has always been a key 

component of Marine Corps tradition. 

Enabling good ideas is fundamental to 

our style of leadership. To that end, we 

are implementing a standard, disciplined 

methodology across the Corps to improve 

processes that support combat readiness 

and warfighting capability. This approach 

includes three primary elements:

• A Business Enterprise Office to coordinate 

policy, develop standard methods, and assist 

organizational leaders to build “in house” process improvement capability 

• A “learn by doing” training curriculum that 

coaches Marines and Marine Corps civilians 

to make improvements and solve problems

• A software tool to monitor progress and share 

results from improvement initiatives

Concurrently, the Marine Corps is 

increasing the application of Business 

Enterprise Architecture methods in order to improve process documentation, 

to improve information governance, 

and to more wisely invest in information 

systems. Results are being achieved in a 

variety of areas including: depot rebuild, 

aviation maintenance, rapid and deliberate acquisition, valor awards and regional 

contracting for materiel and services.

Marine Corps Business Enterprise Initiatives 
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Changing Expectations For 

Garrison Mess Hall Operations

 Meal time should provide Marines 

a break from their daily routine to relax 

and renew. To this end, new menus have 

been developed and environment and 

operating hours have been tailored to fit 

high-tempo lifestyles. New menus offer 

items that patrons are looking for while 

being healthy and nutritionally balanced. 

New menu options include Fusion (food 

made to order upon request); Market 

(similar to the Boston Market TM concept); Grill (upscale fast food to include: 

gourmet hamburgers, pizza and focaccia bread sandwiches); an extensive soup 

and salad bar (Fresh Bar), along with an 

enticing dessert bar. Additional menu 

initiatives implemented in past years include the SubMarine program (made to 

order sandwiches); Simply-to-go (takeout meals); and Xtreme Burrito Program. 

Another welcome change is the extended 

hours of operation offered at select mess 

halls. This provides patrons more flexibility to accommodate changes in schedules 

that would have otherwise prevented getting a meal during traditional meal hours. 

As a collaborative effort between the food 

service contractor and the Marine Corps, 

customer surveys helped to develop 

innovative concepts for mess halls operations. These initiatives are designed 

to provide the very best support possible 

to the patrons of Marine Corps Garrison 

Mess Halls. 

Transitioning Expectations For 

Field Feeding Operations

On par with actions taken to support 

garrison mess hall operations, field feeding has taken on the challenge to support 

the needs of our warfighters by investing 

in new technologies and equipment capable of preparing the highest quality meals 

in the most austere environments. One of 

the ways that this is being achieved is with 

the fielding of the Enhanced Tray Ration 

Heating System, which will increase a 

unit’s capability to prepare a wider variety of rations and provide the means to 

rapidly prepare, deliver and serve up to a 

company-sized unit (250 hot meals two 

times each day) in forward areas. All this 

capability is packed and stored in a Quadruple Container that is designed and fitted with an enhanced refrigeration unit 

allowing the container to double as a field 

refrigerator. Another field feeding system 

that is currently in development is the 

Expeditionary Field Kitchen. The Expeditionary Field Kitchen is intended to fill 

a capability gap between the Tray Ration 

Heating System and the Field Food Service System. When fielded, it will have the 

capability to support the feeding of 500 

personnel with two hot meals per day. 

This trailer-mounted system supports the 

wide range of operational rations and will 

be the forward-feeding solution to the 

mid-level field-feeding requirement of 

the future. 

Feeding Marines
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Marine Corps bases and installations 

represent an irreplaceable national asset 

today and as far into the future as we can 

project. As such, they are fundamental to 

the combat readiness with regard to predeployment training and then launching, 

sustaining and reconstituting Marine Operating Forces. They are and will also continue to be integral to the Quality of Life 

of Marines, Sailors and their families. 

In 2025, Marine Corps installations 

will provide an even higher-quality training environment directly supporting 

the Total Force in Readiness. Operating 

Force commanders will have a greater 

understanding of the vital role installations play in training, launching, recovering, providing reachback, instilling and 

maintaining Marine Corps core values 

and providing for our Marines and their 

families. 

The current operation and maintenance of these installations as well as 

their future development and use require 

wise investment, thorough planning and 

sound execution. Numerous Corps-wide 

efforts are underway to ensure Marine 

Corps installations are ready, responsive 

and capable of meeting current and future support requirements. 

The Marine Corps has more than $38 

billion worth of facilities used to train, 

house and provide quality of life for Marines. Examples of these facilities are barracks, runways, sewage treatment plants, 

roads and electrical lines. These facilities 

are used to perform mission-essential 

tasks and they need to be appropriately 

maintained. Adequately sustaining required facilities should be the highest facilities management priority.

Upon reexamination of the Marine 

Corps’ structure and manning relative 

to its expected long-term mission needs, 

the President approved a permanent end 

strength increase of 27,000 Marines, from 

the base of 175,000 to 202,000 Marines. 

To ensure that these Marines have adequate facilities in which to live and work, 

the President’s FY 2007 Supplemental 

request included $324 million to accomplish critical-path infrastructure projects. 

This effort was continued with the President’s FY 2008 Global War on Terrorism 

(GWOT) request of $169 million and the 

President’s FY 2008 budget request of 

$458 million. The balance of this investment, including military construction 

and family housing, is being aggressively 

programmed.

As the Marine Corps has invested 

substantially to improve Family Housing, 

it has also focused on similar standard of 

living improvements for single enlisted 

Marines. Plans are in place to invest a considerable amount in improving all aspects 

of the quality of life of our single enlisted 

Marines. The Bachelor Enlisted Quarters 

(BEQ) Campaign Plan has been updated 

and will serve as a common roadmap for 

management of our BEQs.

Marine Corps Bases and Installations 
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maritime Support 
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Introduction

Marines have always been “soldiers at sea”. When the Continental Congress decided on November 10, 1775 to raise two battalions of Marines, it specified “...that 

particular care be taken, that no such person...enlisted into said battalions, but such 

as are good seaman, or so acquainted with maritime affairs as to be able to serve to 

advantage by sea when required.” Colonel Commandant John Harris wrote in 1863, 

“We are of the Navy; are governed by Naval Regulations on shore and afloat...” . During 

Operation Desert Storm, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Colin Powell, 

remarked, “Lying offshore, ready to act, the presence of ships and Marines sometimes 

means much more than just having air power or ship’s fire, when it comes to deterring 

a crisis. And the ships and Marines may not have to do anything but lie offshore”.

The close relationship between the Navy and the Marine Corps, tempered by operations and combat in every corner of the world since the War of Independence, remains 

strong today. Whether on board ship or on the ground, the individual Marine remains 

at heart a “soldier at sea”.

The forward deployed Navy-Marine Corps Team provides the Combatant Commanders with scalable options for presence, theater security cooperation, crisis response 

and combat power. Marines deployed on naval shipping combine forward presence 

with flexible and scalable response forces. Together, as America’s force in readiness, 

we represent the United States on the high seas, in the littorals and ashore, and will 

continue to play a pivotal role in protecting vital interests. Under our 2007 tri-service 

maritime strategy, we will work closely with our Navy and Coast Guard shipmates. Individual Marines, Sailors and Coast Guardsmen represent a military partnership that 

is second to none.

The Navy has many programs that directly or indirectly support the projection of 

individual Marines ashore from the seabase. These include:

• Amphibious Warships

• Amphibious Assault Ship Replacement (LHA(R))

• -class Amphibious Transport Dock Ship (LPD-17)

• Maritime Prepositioning Force (Future) (MPF(F))

• Joint High-Speed Vessel (JHSV)

• Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC)/Ship to Shore Connector (SSC)

• Naval Surface Fire Support Initiatives

• Mine Countermeasures
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Amphibious Warships 

Amphibious warfare ships are the 

centerpiece of the Navy/Marine Corps’ 

forcible-entry and Seabasing capability and have played essential roles in the 

Global War on Terrorism. These ships 

are equipped with aviation- and surfaceassault capabilities, which, coupled with 

their inherent survivability and self-defense systems, support a broad range of 

mission requirements. They provide the 

most formidable expeditionary forcibleentry capability in the world, the development and maintenance of which is the 

statutory responsibility of the Marine 

Corps, under U.S. Code Title X.

The Marine Corps’ forcible entry 

requirement is based on the Strategic 

Planning Guidance, directing us to “...

consider capability alternatives...to support a single [MEF-level] two Marine Expeditionary Brigade (MEB) forcible entry 

operation.” Therefore, the Marine Corps 

operational requirement is two MEB 

Assault Echelons (AE) of forcible-entry 

capability reinforced by an additional 

MEB from the MPF(F). The two MEB 

Assault Echelon (AE) forcible-entry capability requires 34 amphibious warfare 

ships (17 ships per MEB). When forward 

presence requirements are considered 

with the 2.0 MEB AE requirement a total of 38 ships are required. Of these 38 

ships, 12 must be aviation-capable large 

deck ships (LHA/LHD/LHA(R)) to accommodate the MEB’s Aviation Combat 

Element (ACE). 

Nine large-deck ships (seven Waspclass LHDs and two Tarawa-Class LHAs) 

are in service in the spring of 2009. The 

eighth Wasp-class multi-purpose amphibious assault ship, the USS Makin Island (LHD 8) delivers in mid-2009. LHD

8 will be similar to LHD 1 through LHD

7 but will be powered by gas turbine engines and have all-electric auxiliaries. 
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The amphibious fleet is organized for 

forward presence and includes nine Amphibious Ready Groups (ARGs) — each 

comprising three amphibious ships. The 

centerpiece of the ARG is a Wasp-class 

or Tarawa-class amphibious assault ship. 

Tarawa-class amphibious assault ships 

reach the ends of their expected service 

lives between 2015 and 2018. 

The first of three LHA Replacement 

ships, the USS America (LHA 6), was 

commissioned in 2008. LHA 6 design 

modifications optimize aviation operations for MV-22 and Joint Strike Fighter 

support. Removal of the well deck provides for an extended hangar deck with 

two wider high-bay areas, each fitted 

with an overhead crane for aircraft maintenance. Other enhancements include 

a reconfigurable command and control 

complex, a hospital facility, and extensive 

support activities.

An LHA 6 class ship is expected to be 

delivered in fiscal years 2013, 2016, and 

2019. LHD recapitalization is expected to 

begin in fiscal year 2019.

Amphibious Assault Ship Replacement (LHA(R)) 
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San Antonio-Class Amphibious Transport Dock Ship (LPD 17)

The LPD 17 San Antonio class amphibious warfare ships represents the 

Department of the Navy’s (DON) commitment to a modern expeditionary fleet 

and will assist the Marine Corps’s naval 

forces across the spectrum of warfare. The 

first two ships of the class, the USS San 

Antonio (LPD 17) and USS New Orleans 

(LPD 18), deployed in the fall 2008 and 

early 2009, respectively. The eleven San

Antonio LPDs will replace the remaining 

six ships of the LPD 4 Austin class. 

The 2009 Navy Long Range Shipbuilding Plan has increased the LPD-17 

program buy from nine to 11 ships; with 

four of these ships already in commission. 

 The LPD 17 class ships play a key 

role in supporting the Global War on 

Terrorism by forward deploying Marines and their equipment to respond to 

crises world wide. The class’ unique design facilitates expanded force coverage 

and decreases reaction times of forwarddeployed Marine Expeditionary Units. 

In forcible-entry operations, the LPD 17 

helps maintain a robust surface assault 

and rapid off-load capability for the Marine Air Ground Task Force well into the 

future. The San Antonio-class warships 

incorporate advanced characteristics for 

amphibious warships. Each ship has 699 

enhanced berths for embarked Marines, 

plus a surge capacity of another 101 berths. 

Each also has a vehicle-stowage capacity of 24,600 square feet, cargo-stowage 

capacity of more than 33,000 cubic feet, 

and a well-deck sized for two Landing 

Craft Air Cushions or one Landing Craft 

Utility. Flight decks can support operations by two CH-53E/K Super Stallions, 

two MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft or 

four CH-46E Sea Knight helicopters. The 

ships in this class are outfitted with two 

Rolling Airframe Missile launchers for 

self-defense and incorporate design features that present a significantly reduced 

radar cross-section compared to previous 

amphibious ships. 
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The Landing Craft Air Cushion 

(LCAC) is a high-speed, fully amphibious craft with a design payload of 60 

tons at speeds in excess of 40 knots and a 

nominal range of 200 nautical miles. The 

LCAC’s ability to ride on a cushion of air 

allows it to operate directly from the well 

decks of amphibious warships and to access more than 70 percent of the world’s 

beaches, compared to the with 17 percent 

for conventional landing craft. A service 

life extension program (SLEP) began in 

late 2000 for the 72 active LCAC, which 

provides major refurbishment that will 

extend craft life to 30 years and increased 

payload capacity from 60 to 75 tons in an 

overload condition. LCACs initially go 

through a system upgrade that includes 

the replacement of obsolete radios and 

radar, the installation of the Enhanced 

Position Location Reporting System, corrosion abatement and upgrades of the 

current skirt system with an improved 

deep skirt. LCAC SLEP provides engine 

upgrades and refurbishes the hull, thereby increasing the performance envelope. 

Phase II provides a Command, Control, 

Communications, Computers and Navigation upgrade, which replaces these 

crafts’ deteriorating and obsolete electronic suites.

 The Joint Staff approved the Initial Capabilities Document for a Ship to 

Shore Connector (SSC) capability, to begin assessing all forms of ship-to-shore 

air cushion and displacement craft technologies to develop a replacement for the 

LCAC. 

Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC)/

Ship to Shore Connector (SSC)
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Joint High-Speed Vessel (JHSV)

The Joint High-Speed Vessel (JHSV) 

reached Milestone B in November 2008, 

which authorized system design development and detailed design. Low rate initial production was also approved. The 

lead ship will be delivered to the Army 

in 2012 and the first Navy vessel delivers 

in 2013. High-speed vessels will continue 

to be leased in the Pacific Command area 

of responsibility to mitigate the delivery 

schedule. The JHSV will provide the critical intra-theater, surface connector capability that will enable the Joint Force Commander to project forces and sustainment 

at high speed over operational distances. 

The JHSV will be capable of self deploying to the theater of operations and, once 

in theater, provide the high-speed means 

to move forces and supplies within that 

theater. Specifically, the JHSV will provide 

the capability to deliver equipment, personnel and supplies over the intra-theater 

ranges to shallow, austere and degraded 

ports. It will provide support to seabasing and will bridge the gap between lowspeed sealift and high-speed airlift. The 

JHSV lead ship is scheduled to deliver in 

FY 2012 with additional ships to follow in 

the subsequent years. 
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Seapower is a distinct asymmetric advantage of the United States. For Marines, 

that asymmetric advantage includes Joint 

Seabasing, which allows us to maximize 

forward presence and engagement while 

“stepping lightly” on local sensitivities, 

avoiding the unintended political, social, 

and economic disruptions that often result from a large U.S. presence ashore. 

It allows us to conduct a broad range of 

operations in areas where access is challenged, without operational commanders 

being forced to immediately secure ports 

and airfields. Given diplomatic, geographic, and infrastructure constraints, Seabasing is absolutely critical to overcoming 

area denial and anti-access weapons in 

uncertain or openly hostile situations. 

Joint Seabasing is a national strategic imperative. Our control of the sea allows us 

to use it as a vast maneuver space — 365 

days a year.

 The incorporation of the Maritime 

Prepositioning Force-Future (MPF(F)) 

Squadron into the existing MPF Program 

is an important enabler for joint seabasing and will build on the success of the 

legacy Maritime Prepositioning Force 

program. MPF(F) will provide support 

to a wide range of military operations, 

with improved capabilities such as at-sea 

arrival and assembly, selective offload of 

specific mission sets and long-term, seabased sustainment. From the sea base, the 

squadron will be capable of prepositioning a single Marine Expeditionary Brigade’s (MEB) critical equipment and sustainment for delivery — without the need 

for established infrastructure ashore.

The MPF(F) is a scalable employment 

option that will provide Combatant/Joint 

Force Commanders a highly flexible, operational and logistics support capability 

that enables it to rapidly reinforce the Assault Echelon of an Marine Expeditionary 

Force and support select other Joint Forces. When operating in a threat environment, MPF(F) will be protected by other 

naval, joint, or combined forces. MPF(F) 

will support the rapid arrival and assembly of Marine Air Ground Task Force units 

and associated Navy elements. It will also 

provide support for persistent operations 

through sustainment and replenishment, 

with the ability to rapidly reconstitute and 

redeploy prepositioned forces in support 

of follow-on missions. A summary of 

MPF(F) squadron capabilities follows:

• Preposition the Baseline MEB, NSE, other 

Naval Support, Naval Mobile Construction 

Battalion and headquarters element Naval 

Construction Regiment (NCR), consisting 

of vehicles, equipment, and supplies 

(minus aircraft)

• Provide accommodations for the Sea Base 

Echelon, NSE, other Naval Support personnel, Standing Detachments and ship’s crew

• Rapid closure of the Baseline MEB to 

the Seabase

• Complete at sea arrival and assembly

• Employ two surface and one vertical BLT 

from the sea

• Accommodate Organizational (O) and 

selected Intermediate (I) level aviation 

maintenance

• Accommodate O and I level ground 

commodity maintenance

• Sustain the MEB forces ashore from the 

sea base and contribute to throughput and 

sustainment of select Joint forces

• Accommodate and operate organic 

surface connectors

Maritime Prepositioning Force (Future)
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162

• Accommodate and operate organic aviation 

connectors

• Provide resuscitative medical care (Level II)

• Conduct external operations through sea 

state 3/sea state 4 (threshold/objective )

• Provide MEB level command and control

capability

As each ship of the MPF (F) squadron is delivered, it will incrementally 

transform existing squadrons from a 

“port-to-port” delivery capability to an 

increasingly selectively off-loadable, 

sea-based capability. MPF (F) squadron Initial Operational Capability (IOC) 

will be achieved when the first largedeck amphibious ship (LHA or LHD), 

T-AKE, MLP and LMSR are deployed 

with prepositioned assets in FY 2017. 

This will provide the geographic Combatant Commanders with limited employment, sustainment and reconstitution capability for a Marine Expeditionary Unit 

equivalent-sized force. MPF (F) T-AKEs 

that are delivered prior to IOC will be 

used to provide a limited selective offload 

sustainment capability as subsequent 

elements of the MPF (F) squadron are 

delivered. Deployment of a complete 

Full Operational Capability MPF (F) 

squadron is notionally planned for 

FY 2022. (The MPF (F) Squadron Composition chart on the following page 

provides relevant specifications for 

MPF (F) squadron ships.)
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Length: 950 ft Beam: 106 ft Draft: 34 ft Displacement: ~60.7K LT

Per Squadron: 3 Speed: ~20 knots Range: 9,500 nm Medical: Sick Call (1,000 ft2)

Crew: 35 Stand Det: 49 MAGTF: 697 NSE: 64 Berths: 850 Sqft: 188,000 CuFt: 300,000 JP-5: 226K gal Water: 136K gal/ 24K gal/day

TEU: 45 Well Deck: N/A Stern Ramp: 80ST Cranes: 1 Twin 72T

A/C Op Spots (Level/Class): 2 Launch/Recover (I/2); VERTREP (I/4) A/C: N/A

2 LHA(R)

Length: 844 ft Beam: 106 ft Draft: 28.2 ft Displacement: 45K LT

Per Squadron: 2 Speed: 20 knots Range: 9,500 nm Medical: 2 OR & 24 Ward Beds

Crew: 128 Stand Det: 42 / 28 MAGTF: 1,614 NSE: 782 / 401 Berths: 2,612 

Sqft: 14,200 CuFt: 173,000 JP-5: 1.3 Mil gal Water: 400K gal/ 200K gal/dayTEU: N/A Well Deck: N/A Stern Ramp: N/A Hangar/High Bay: 30K ft2/ 2(7-fr)

A/C Op Spots (Level/Class): 9 (I/1) A/C: 36 MV22, 8 CH53K, 18 AH1Z, 9 UH1Y, 4 MH60S

3 LMSR

3 T-AKE 3 MLP

Length: 673 ft Beam: 105 ft Draft: 34.6 ft Displacement: ~46K LT

Per Squadron: 2 Speed: 17.7 knots Range: 11,107 nm Medical: Sick CallCrew: 30 Stand Det: 16 MAGTF: 0 NSE: 81 Berths: 127 

Sqft: 162,500 CuFt: N/A JP-5: 1.4 Mil gal Water: 99K gal/ 25K gal/day

TEU: 522 Well Deck: N/A Stern Ramp: 60ST Cranes: 1 Single 39T/ 2 Twin 39T

A/C Ops Spots (Level/Class): 1 Helicopter platform (II/3); VERTREP (II/4) A/C: N/A

Length: 844 ft Beam: 106 ft Draft: 28.2 ft Displacement: 45K LT

Per Squadron: 1 Speed: 20 knots Range: 9,500 nm Medical: 6 OR, 17 ICU, 47 Ward

Crew: 140 Stand Det: 30 MAGTF: 1,794 NSE: 580 Berths: 2,705

Sqft: 29,800 CuFt: 146,000 JP-5: 400K gal Water: 400K gal/ 200K gal/dayTEU: N/A Well Deck: 3 LCAC Stern Ramp: 72ST Hangar/High Bay: 20K ft2/ 1(5-fr)

A/C Op Spots (Level/Class): 9 (I/1) A/C: 12 MV22, 12 CH53K, 2 MH60S

Length: 824 ft Beam: 142 ft Draft: TBD Displacement: 50.7K LT

Per Squadron: 3 Speed: 20 knots Range: 9,500 nm Medical: Sick Call

Crew: 50 Stand Det: 2 MAGTF: 728 NSE: 115 Berths: 922

Sqft: 51,560 CuFt: N/A JP-5: 1 mil gal Water: 200K Gal/ 50K gal/day

TEU: 50 (50K ft2) Well Deck: 6 LCAC Stern Ramp: N/A Crane: 1 26T Cargo; 2 10T Store

A/C Ops Spots (Level/Class): 1 Launch/Recover (I/2); VERTREP (I/4) A/C: UAS (1,000ft2)

Length: 689 ft Beam: 105 ft Draft: 31 ft Displacement: 42.4K LT

Per Squadron: 3 Speed: 20 knots Range: 14,000 nm Medical: Sick Call

Crew: 124 Stand Det: 6 MAGTF: 10 NSE: ~51 Berths: 197

Sqft: N/A CuFt: 954,000 JP-5: 1,048K gal Water: 52.8K gal/ 28K gal/dayTEU: 61 Well Deck: N/A Stern Ramp: N/A Hangar/High Bay: ~1,800 ft2/ 1 

A/C Ops Spots (Level/Class): 1 Launch/Recover (I/2); VERTREP (I/4) A/C: 2 MH60S (I/1)

2 T-AK

1 LHD R)

ots ( e e ass) au c eco e ( ); ( ) 60S ( )

R

MPF(F) Squadron Composition

MPF(F) Squadron Composition
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Firepower, including responsive, lethal and persistent fires from U.S. Navy 

surface ships, is essential in expeditionary operations. A robust, around-theclock, all-weather, sea-based surface fire 

support capability is vital to the success 

of naval forces engaged in littoral combat 

operations. The current Naval Surface 

Fires Support (NSFS) capability does not 

meet required range, volume and accuracy for supporting expeditionary operations throughout an extended battlespace. 

The Navy continues to pursue development and testing of an extended-range 

and guided, fire support capability for use 

by the fleet to support the Marine Corps 

Vision and Strategy 2025 and the combined-service strategic vision articulated in A Cooperative Strategy for 21st 

Century Seapower.

In December 2005, The Joint Requirements Oversight Council (JROC) 

validated the Joint Fires in Support of 

Expeditionary Operations in the Littorals Initial Capabilities Document (ICD). 

The ICD identified NSFS as a potential 

solution to mitigate gaps in weapons and 

engagement capability in the littoral environment. The gaps include the ability to 

engage targets in close support of maneuver forces or when collateral damage is a 

concern, the ability to provide volume effects over an area target or for sustained 

periods of time, and the ability to engage 

moving point and area target under restricted weather conditions. An Analysis 

of Alternatives (AoA) is being conducted 

in FY 2009 to determine what weapons 

systems and platforms will meet the ICD

requirements. This AoA will be the basis 

Naval Surface Fire Support Initiatives
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for a combined naval strategy to map out 

those programs and initiatives necessary 

to address the recognized gaps in fire support capability and capacity.

Beginning in 2014, the Navy will 

field another fully integrated, transformational fire support system. The DDG 1000 

Zumwalt class Land-Attack Destroyer, 

equipped with two 155mm Advance Gun 

Systems (AGS) each with a 300 round 

magazine, will add considerable firepower 

and flexibility to an Expeditionary Strike 

Group or Expeditionary Strike Force. The 

AGS, firing the Long-Range Land-Attack 

Projectile, will increase the lethal effects 

of the Marine Air Ground Task Force’s 

(MAGTF’s) NSFS fires to greater than 63 

nautical miles. The DDG 1000 will also be 

the first naval ship designed to integrate 

counter-fire detection with the dual band 

radar (DBR). The DBR will be networked 

to the ground and naval sensors network 

and can digitally communicate the information to the Supporting Arms Coordination Center or Fire Support Coordination Center for engagement.

Future technologies will further develop the transformational nature of 

NSFS. New science and technology efforts are underway, to include the Electromagnetic Rail Gun. Future battlefield 

commanders may harness the destructive 

power of mach 7+ propelled projectiles 

launched using electromagnetic energy 

generated on board the Navy’s future 

family of all-electric ships. The Marine 

Corps will continue to monitor developing technologies with an eye toward how 

they might be integrated to support future operating concepts.

NSFS will offer a complementary capability to tactical aviation and ground 

fire systems, completing the joint triad of 

fires. Emerging capabilities will reshape 

the way fires are planned and used by the 

MAGTF. With continued commitment, 

the Marine Corps and the rest of the Joint 

community can rely upon NSFS as readily available, all-weather fire support systems capable of engaging targets across 

the full range of military operations in 

the littorals.
chapter 3

part 7 

Supporting Establishment
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Introduction

The Supporting Establishment — installations and facilities in the United States 

and overseas — is the foundation and framework for the Marine Corps’ readiness in 

the 21st Century. Our security depends on installations and facilities that are available 

when and where needed, with the right capabilities, to support current and future operational requirements, effectively and efficiently.

Our Marines and their families are our most precious assets. We owe them a commitment commensurate with the tremendous sacrifices they make daily to defend our 

homeland and safeguard our security. That means we must provide the best housing, 

workplace and training environments that we can afford. And, we remain committed 

to providing modern installations, facilities, housing and the supporting services that 

enhance morale, Quality of Life and Quality of Service that are critical factors in our 

readiness posture.

The programs discussed in this section are vitally important to the Marine Corps. 

They are fundamental to the combat readiness of Marine Corps operating forces, and 

are integral to the support of individual Marines and their families. These programs 

are designed to ensure that Marines and their families are taken care of in the areas of 

recruiting, training and education, retention, pay and administrative support, quality 

of life and service, and family support.
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Manpower Recruiting 

FY 2008 challenged the Marines of 

the Marine Corps Recruiting Command 

with the largest regular accession mission in the history of the command. This 

challenge, combined with the impact of 

the Long War, continued to test the ability and professionalism of our recruiting 

force. Once again our Marines exceeded 

all expectations and achieved every facet 

of their assigned mission. 

Recruiting is the lifeblood of our 

Corps. As the Corps grows its endstrength, 

Marine Corps Recruiting Command 

must ensure that the quality of our applicants does not waver. It is the individual 

Marine recruiter who is tasked with initially ensuring that all applicants meet the 

standard of excellence our Nation expects 

of its Marines. In addition to recruiting 

our Nation’s best and brightest to become 

Marines, the individual recruiter serves 

as an ambassador to local communities 

and the American public. Recruiters put 

a familiar face to the nationally recognized reputation of the Marine Corps and 

stand as examples of all that is best about 

our Nation and the Corps. Most fundamentally, the individual recruiter inspires 

applicants to pursue life as United States 

Marines, who once transformed, will be 

Marines for life.

Selection to recruiting duty is a 

unique and highly discerning process. 

Those considered for assignment as recruiters must first undergo extensive 

screening and are considered representatives of the best the Marine Corps has 

to offer. Intensive training at Recruiters 

School ensures that recruiters are thoroughly prepared to face the multi-faceted 

challenges that lay ahead. Their training 

is continuously reinforced and built upon 

throughout their recruiting tour, ensuring that the recruiter remains armed 

with the most current tactics, techniques 

and procedures. Beginning in FY 2010, 

Marine Corps Recruiting Command will 

commence a training modernization 

initiative in order to establish a worldclass training program that will propel 

recruiter training into the 21st Century, 

with dramatic improvements in training 

approaches, delivery and measurements 

by transforming existing processes and 

leveraging the latest proven technologies and best practices. The anticipated 

benefits are better recruiters and Officer 

Selection Officer Teams, increased train-
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169

ing effectiveness and significant savings 

in time and costs. 

Even before a recruiter is given the 

opportunity to meet face-to-face with an 

applicant, many recruiters discover that 

applicants have been exposed to the Marine Corps’ message of making Marines, 

winning our country’s battles and creating quality citizens. This is accomplished 

through comprehensive marketing and 

advertising programs. These programs 

serve to reinforce the elite warrior image 

and positive message that is communicated daily by the individual recruiter. To 

accomplish these goals, marketing and 

advertising programs continue to emphasize core competencies of building brand 

awareness, generating quality leads for recruiters and developing recruiter support 

material for use in the recruiting process. 

High-quality advertising efforts properly 

focused on the target markets of prospective recruits and their influencers provide 

the foundation for establishing awareness 

about Marine Corps opportunities among 

America’s young men and women. 

Paid advertising continues to be the 

most effective means to communicate our 

message and as a result, remains the focus 

of our advertising efforts. As advertising 

costs continue to increase it is imperative that our advertising budgets remain 

competitive in order to ensure that our 

recruiting message reaches the right audience. Marine Corps recruiting successes 

during the past years are a direct reflection of a quality recruiting force and an 

effective marketing and advertising program. 

The Marine Corps Recruiting Command achieved unprecedented success in 

FY 2008 by making 100.1 percent of our 

enlisted shipping objectives to include 

exceeding all Department of Defense 

(DoD) and Marine Corps quality standards. For example, 96.3 percent of those 

shipped to recruit training were Tier 1 

high school graduates, above the DoD

and Marine Corps standards of 90 and 

95 percent, respectively. Additionally, 

66.8 percent were in the I-IIIA upper mental group — again, well above the DoD

and Marine Corps standards of 60 percent 

and 63 percent, respectively. The Marine 

Corps Reserve also achieved 100 percent 

of its recruiting goals with the accession 

of 4,235 Non-Prior Service Marines. Of 

these, 97.2 percent were Tier I high school 

graduates and 75.2 percent were in the 

I-IIIA mental groups. In addition, the 

Marine Corps recruiting command 

accessed 4,501 Prior Service Marines into 

the Marine Corps Reserves, achieving 

100 percent of the objective. 

The officer mission remained challenging during FY 2008. Until other 

commissioning sources increase to the 

optimum level for meeting the annual 

officer requirement, the burden of the 

officer mission will fall on the shoulders 

of the Officer Selection Officer Teams in 

the Officer Candidate Course mission. In 

FY 2008, Marine Corps met 100 percent 

of the officer requirement. 

In all recruiting efforts, diversity, 

both in the enlisted and officer ranks, 

remains an important priority for the 

Marine Corps Recruiting Command, and 
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170

incremental improvements have been 

achieved in both. 

The superior results achieved by the 

Marine Corps Recruiting Command 

during FY 2008 ensured that the command continued its history of success and 

added to its already exceptional legacy. 

Marine Corps Recruiting Command recognizes that during FY 2009 the Marine 

Corps will continue to grow, and our operational forces will remain committed in 

support of the Long War. This means that 

the mission will continue to be challenging, and there will be no time to reflect 

on previous successes. Marine Corps Recruiting Command is well-positioned for 

success in FY 2009 and will move into the 

next fiscal year with the intensity, dedication and commitment to our core values 

that are necessary to ensure success. 
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Marine Corps Recruiting Information Support System– 

Recruiting Sub-Station (MCRISS-RSS) & 

Officer Selection System (MCRISS-OSS)

Description

The deployment of the Marine Corps 

Recruiting Information Support System–

Recruiting Station (MCRISS-RS) streamlines the entire enlistment process and 

provides immediate benefits in manhour savings by eliminating redundant 

data entry and improving the quality of 

information available. Moreover, the system directly interfaces with and supports 

key information technology initiatives 

from the U.S. Military Entrance Processing Command by electronically scheduling applicants for processing and receives 

electronic processing results. MCRISS-RS 

interfaces with the Joint Personnel Adjudication System (JPAS) at the Office of 

Personnel Management to ensure security background checks are fully completed 

on each applicant. MCRISS-RS harnesses 

state-of-the-art technology and provides 

the Marine Corps Recruiting Command 

with a solid foundation from which to 

grow future manpower information systems such as MCRISS-Recruiting SubStation (RSS) and MCRISS-Officer Selection System (OSS).

The development and deployment of 

MCRISS-RSS/OSS promises to automate 

both the officer and enlisted side of recruiting at the recruiter/Officer Selection 

Office (OSO) level by organizing every 

effort and providing the proven framework of systematic recruiting. Systematic recruiting establishes procedures for 

standardization, management/planning, 

training and action by focusing the OSO, 

RSS SNCOIC and recruiter on those activities and programs vital to effective recruiting. MCRISS-RSS will encompass all 

eleven components of enlisted systematic 

recruiting while MCRISS-OSS will encompass the fourteen components of officer systematic recruiting. This effort will 

further eliminate redundant data entry 

and save the most valuable asset; time.

Operational Impact

Time is the recruiter’s (officer or enlisted) greatest challenge and most precious asset. A recruiter’s achievement and 

success is measured only by the number of qualified, high-quality individuals interviewed, contracted and shipped 

to recruit training or Officer Candidate 

School. MCRISS-RSS/OSS, coupled with 

solid selling skills, will systematically 

organize the recruiter’s day, week, and 

month, thereby saving time and making 

the demanding task of “mission accomplishment” more efficient and effective. 

With additional organization, the recruiter will be armed to conduct recruitprospecting in an efficient manner, thus 

saving time and ensuring consistency in 

the execution of prospecting plans. 

Program Status

Procurement Profile: FY 2009 efforts will 

deliver MCRISS-OSS, the first increment 

of MCRISS-RSS (six components), the 

new automated enlisted applicant package 

and the new automated commissioning 

package.

Developer/Manufacturer:

Stanley Associates, Arlington, VA

Subcontracts: Segue Technologies, 

Arlington, VA; Tedrad Digital Integrity, 

Washington, D.C.; and Firefly Database 

Solutions Inc., Nokesville, VA
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The Marine Corps continues to transform our manpower processes by exploiting the benefits of the Marine Corps Total 

Force System (MCTFS), the Department 

of Defense’s only fully integrated personnel, pay and manpower system. The Marine Corps Total Force System seamlessly 

serves our active, reserve and retired 

members; provides total visibility of the 

mobilization and demobilization process 

of our Marines; and ensures proper and 

timely payments are made throughout 

the process. MCTFS provides one system and one record, regardless of an individual’s mobilization status. According 

to the most recent Defense Finance and 

Accounting Service’s “Bare Facts” report, 

MCTFS continues to achieve a pay accuracy rate of greater than 99 percent for 

both our active and reserve components.

MCTFS has allowed the Marine 

Corps to move its pay and personnel 

administration to a predominately selfservice, virtually paperless, secure, webbased environment. In FY 2008, individual Marines and their leaders leveraged 

MCTFS’ capabilities to automatically 

process more than 24 million transactions, including more than 92 percent of 

our annual leave events. In addition, due 

to the implementation of the Marine 

OnLine Training Management System, 

59 percent of training transactions were 

entered by non-administrative personnel, resulting in more timely reporting 

of these training events. MCTFS’ integrated business logic coupled with the 

web-based capabilities of Marine Online 

has increased the amount of time Marine 

leaders can devote to warfighting. 

Manpower Personnel and Pay Management
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Enlisted Personnel

The Marine Corps continues to retain enlisted Marines, both first term and 

subsequent term careerists, at unprecedented levels in order to shape the NonCommissioned Officer (NCO) and Staff 

Non-Commissioned Officer (SNCO) 

leadership required by an end strength of 

202,000. Retention goals were substantially increased in mid-fiscal year 2007 and 

increased even further in fiscal year 2008 

to support the growth and proper shaping of our current and future career force. 

The dynamics of the Corps’ manpower 

system must match the required skills and 

grades to establish and staff the additional 

units that enable a 1:2 deployment-to-dwell 

time ratio. 

The Marine Corps has always sought 

to retain its best-qualified enlisted Marines to provide the experienced leadership required to mold, mentor, and sustain a relatively young force. Traditionally, 

this effort meant retaining 25 percent of 

any given fiscal year’s first term Marines. 

However, in fiscal year 2007, the Corps retained an unprecedented 31 percent of the 

fiscal year’s first term population. In fiscal 

year 2008, the first term retention rate increased to over 35 percent. Additionally, 

the Corps retained over 76 percent of the 

fiscal year 2008 subsequent term or careerist population. This translates to over 

16,500 combined fiscal year 2008 first term 

and subsequent term reenlistments. These 

historic retention achievement levels have 

contributed significantly to the Corps’ end 

strength growth and mission readiness.

Our retention goals will remain aggressive and challenging relative to traditional 

norms as we continue to grow and shape 

our enlisted career force. For this reason, 

the budget for the Selective Reenlistment 

Bonus (SRB) program remains robust and 

targets our most significant requirements.

Additionally, as enlisted leadership, 

combat experience and technical military 

occupational specialty (MOS) proficiency 

remain essential to the future of our Corps, 

it is imperative that we continue to support 

retention of our “best and brightest” Marines by seeking steady funding for the SRB 

program in future years. The SRB program 

has clearly aided reenlistment endeavors and has improved retention for some 

critical skill shortages. However, due to the 

creation of new operational units, shortages persist in many occupational specialties that span the Marine Air Ground Task 

Force, such as intelligence, explosive ordnance disposal, reconnaissance, and artillery, which demonstrate the importance of 

continued SRB program funding levels. 

Though the SRB program is greatly 

enabling our retention success, we cannot 

disregard the intangible attributes such 

as pride of service and the satisfaction of 

leadership responsibilities as significant 

influences on retaining dedicated men and 

women. All leaders within the officer and 

enlisted ranks must ensure their Marines 

are educated on the importance of retention and on our evolving retention policies 

and incentives. Leaders must continue to 

emphasize the intangibles of service; this 

will facilitate our quality Marines weighing the real value of the intangibles in their 

individual reenlistment decisions. 

Marine Corps Retention
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174

Officers 

The Marine Corps officer retention 

goal is to retain the best and most fully 

qualified officers, in the right grades, with 

the right skills to provide the capabilities 

required in the operating forces. Historically, the aggregate officer retention rate

 is 90.5 percent. For fiscal year 2008, the 

Marine Corps exceeded its retention goals 

within the officer corps, with a retention 

rate of 91.4 percent. Regardless, Marine 

Corps manpower planners continue to 

look for indicators showing a trend toward higher attrition in future years. Although overall officer retention is excellent, shortages do exist in certain grades 

and skills, requiring careful management 

and innovative solutions. 

To this end, the Marine Corps has 

active programs in place, both monetary 

and non-monetary, to ensure officer retention remains high. Monetary tools 

already implemented include Aviation 

Continuation Pay, Critical skills retention 

bonus (Marine Captains) and Law School 

Education Debt Subsidy. Non-monetary 

programs include voluntary lateral 

moves, inter-service transfers to the Marine Corps, and Return to Active Duty. All 

of these programs provide incentives to 

officers for continued service even in 

the face of significant operational tempo while giving flexibility to manpower 

planners to meet requirements across 

the Marine Corps Total Force.
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Reserve Marines understand the cost 

of protecting the American way of life, 

and even though some have paid the ultimate price, they continue to step forward 

and volunteer to serve their country. The 

Marine Corps Reserve continues to fill 

critical requirements in support of the 

Global War on Terror, particularly in Iraq 

and Afghanistan. At home, Marine Forces 

Reserve maintains Reserve Marines and 

assets pre-positioned throughout the 

country, ready to assist with not only 

national defense missions, but also civil-military missions such as providing 

disaster relief.

Sustainment

Despite the current high operational 

tempo, the Marine Corps Reserve continues to recruit and retain top-notch 

Marines. New Marines are consistently 

brought into the Reserves at a rate of 

20- 25 percent per year. This, in addition 

to our current force, provides continued 

capability to augment and reinforce the 

Active Component.

As the Active Component increases end-strength to 202,000, it is 

important to note that higher planned 

retention in the Active Component 

and greater numbers of Marines from 

the Reserve Component volunteering for full-time active duty with the 

Active Component, will reduce the number of personnel transitioning into the 

Selected Marine Corps Reserve. 

Conclusion

The Marine Corps Reserve is a full 

partner of the Marine Corps’ Total Force. 

Reserve Marines continue to prove their 

dedication to their country and fellow 

citizens. Their continuing honor, courage, and commitment to warfighting 

excellence while maintaining close ties 

to their community truly set them apart 

as “citizen soldiers.” They recognize they 

have a crucial mission, and the American 

people will continue to expect the most 

from them while continuing to support 

them. Marine Forces Reserve, with its 

well-equipped, well-led, and well-trained 

professional men and women, will be integral to the Marine Corps of the future.

Marine Corps Reserve 
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176

Civilian Marines are a valuable asset 

to our Total Force team. Marines at all 

ranks recognize, more than ever before, 

the importance of our Civilian Marines, 

who provide critical support in numerous 

areas throughout the Corps.

Currently totaling approximately 

30,000, Civilian Marines are taking on 

more challenging and diverse roles. Serving primarily as a major element of the 

supporting establishment, Civilian Marines are now being called upon to serve 

in positions traditionally occupied by 

military personnel and deploy along with 

our operational forces.

The Marine Corps is focused on ensuring we have a Civilian Marine workforce equipped with the leadership skills 

and technical competencies necessary to 

meet the challenges of today as well as in 

the future. Flexibilities in how we manage 

and reward our Civilian Marines also play 

a key role in helping the Marine Corps 

meet its mission.

Civilian Police Recruitment Initiative

As Marines continue to deploy 

worldwide to fill critical requirements of 

national defense, Civilian Marines consistently stand ready to sustain operations 

here at home. 

The Marine Corps has recently adopted a plan to begin hiring approximately 

1,200 Civilian Police Officers. This expansion of civilian policing will reduce the operational stress on Marine Corps Military 

Police and will enhance security and police 

services across the Marine Corps.

The Marine Corps initiated a Civilian 

Police force in 2005 and has established 

Marine Corps Police Departments in Albany, Georgia, Jacksonville, Florida, and 

Barstow, California. The initial hiring 

target for fiscal year 2008 is 400, with the 

remainder being spread out over the next 

three years. These Civilian Marines will be 

working side-by-side with Marine Corps 

Military Police at Marine Corps installations across the United States. The Marine 

Corps Civilian Police Officer recruitment 

initiative seeks to attract, hire, and retain 

a fully viable civilian police workforce by 

the end of fiscal year 2011.

National Security Personnel 

System

The Marine Corps has implemented 

the National Security Personnel System 

(NSPS) along with other Department of 

Defense and Department of Navy agencies. The NSPS offers broad pay bands 

and flexible civilian workforce management tools, including pay-for-performance flexibilities to reward excellent 

performance with salary increases and 

bonuses. These flexibilities and tools are 

essential to effectively and efficiently recruit, retain, and manage our Civilian 

Marines in support of our mission in the 

21st century.

Through the new pay-for-performance system implemented as part of 

NSPS, employees are able to align job objectives to mission. This practice enables 

employees to understand how their work 

Civilian Marines
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177

contributes to their organization’s mission by focusing on accomplishment and 

contribution of broad goals rather than 

narrow tasks. The pay-for-performance 

system also emphasizes behavior and professional demeanor as critical features of 

one’s performance. Ongoing performance 

feedback, both formal and informal, is an 

important component of the system and 

is essential to increase employee engagement and foster the high performance 

culture workplace in our Civilian Workforce Campaign Plan. Since January 2007, 

the Marine Corps has converted 6400 

employees to NSPS across all Marine 

Corps organizations, including overseas 

and field activities.

Civilian Workforce Development

The Marine Corps is committed to 

improving the leadership skills and opportunities for training and education for 

Civilian Marines. Civilian Marines are afforded the opportunity to advance their 

career development through centrallymanaged programs administered through 

Headquarters Marine Corps, Manpower 

and Reserve Affairs, Manpower Plans and 

Policy Division. There are numerous programs, courses, and seminars available. 

Opportunities exist for both new/entry 

level and senior/expert level employees. 

The selection process to participate is 

competitive. Tuition, per diem, and travel 

are covered for those selected to represent 

the Marine Corps.

The Marine Corps Acculturation 

Program provides Civilian Marines with 

the opportunity to understand their 

role(s) in supporting the mission of the 

Marine Corps. Specifically, Civilian Marines learn the Marine Corps’ culture and 

history while also concentrating on the 

strategic mission of local commands. 

The Civilian Marine Mentoring Program is part of the Civilian Career and 

Leadership Development program. It 

enhances the Corps’ ability to transform 

our civilian workforce into a high-performance culture providing a skilled, capable workforce to face the challenges of 

the future.

The Civilian Workforce Development Application (CWDA) was designed 

to assist the Marine Corps in managing 

civilian workforce development activities. 

A web application, CWDA contains data 

related to the leadership and functional 

core competencies of the Communities of 

Interest (COI). The long term vision for 

CWDA is that it will facilitate organizational management and workforce shaping.

Community Management

COIs provide enterprise-wide communications, collect and share best 

practices, focus on technical aspects and 

training needs, and ensure competencies 

and career paths are developed for the 

community. In the Marine Corps, there 

are twenty-one communities that encompass over 350 job series. 

COIs are led by senior civilians of the 

community, typically members of the Senior Executive Service (SES). They are re-
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sponsible for establishing the community 

vision and plan, in addition to serving as 

advocates for Civilian Marines who work 

in the job series within their COI. 

Labor Relations 

The Marine Corps maintains relations with 17 bargaining units representing 17,000 Civilian Marines throughout 

the Marine Corps. Federal unions have a 

representative role established by statute 

and are kept informed of programs and 

changes which will impact employees. A

master labor agreement, covering all bargaining unit employees, was negotiated 

with the American Federation of Government Employees in an effort to enhance 

morale and productivity, limit job turnover, and help organizations increase performance and improve business results. 

The key function of labor relations is to 

develop strategies for effective communication and investigating and establishing 

work/life balance initiatives to create a 

more positive workplace environment. 
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Description

The Combined Arms Command 

and Control Training Upgrade System 

(CACCTUS) for the Combined Arms 

Staff Trainer (CAST) will provide realistic command-and-control integration 

and fire support coordination training for Marine Air-Ground Task Force 

(MAGTF) staffs up to, and including, the 

Marine Expeditionary Brigade level and 

integration MAGTF training with Joint 

National Training Capability Training 

Transformation events. 

Operational Impact

This CAST upgrade will support the 

training required to prepare Marine Corps 

units to participate in pre-deployment 

live-fire training, particularly Mojave Viper exercises held at Marine Air Ground 

Task Force Training Center 29 Palms, 

California, by providing the most effective 

classroom training and pre-Mojave Viper 

rehearsal opportunities prior to arrival. 

Program Status

CACCTUS will be delivered in 

FY 2009.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 5 0

Developer/Manufacturer:

Cole Engineering Services Inc, Orlando, 

FL

Combined-Arms Command and Control Training 

Upgrade System (CACCTUS)
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Description

The Deployable Virtual Training Environment (DVTE) is a first-person skills 

sustainment trainer that trains Marines 

from the individual to battalion staff level 

by using a simulation network with reconfigurable workstations capable of emulating a vast array of training scenarios. 

DVTE consists of two components: the 

first is the Infantry Tool Kit that contains 

several Tactical Decision-making Simulations. The other half of DVTE is the Combined Arms Network (CAN). This is a set 

of personal computer-based simulators 

(Forward Observer, Forward Air Controller, Assault Amphibious Vehicle, M1, 

Light Armored Vehicle, AH-1) connected 

to Joint Semi Autonomous Force. Program Manager Training Systems recently 

accepted delivery of the CAN Version 1.0 

which connects to Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System (AFATDS) and 

Strikelink to allow training of a variety 

of fire-support platforms using Marine 

Corps gear. Individual MAGTF skills can 

be trained in this virtual environment using a semi-autonomous force model as its 

basis. DVTE responds to the need for a 

flexible, deployable training system that 

provides combined arms, MAGTF and 

Naval Integration training.

Operational Impact

Training objectives for DVTE are 

currently being matched with standards 

in the Pre-deployment Training Program as well as the Infantry Training and 

Readiness Manual. DVTE uses programs 

such as Virtual Battle Space to train 

Marines on everything from command 

and control to convoy standard operating procedures. Marines can also meet 

specific cultural and language training 

objectives using programs like Tactical 

Iraqi. Lastly, units can train all aspects 

of combined arms using the CAN. The 

CAN uses actual Marine Corps gear, such 

as AFATDS, to communicate call for fire. 

Marines will be able to meet and sustain 

a wide variety of training objectives 

either in garrison or deployed. DVTE

meets a much needed training requirement for many areas where there were few 

options for training. The end state is for 

Marines to be able to conduct standardsbased training in a simulated environment while in garrison or deployed.

Program Status

45 DVTE suites have been delivered 

to I Marine Expeditional Force (MEF), II

MEF, III MEF and various school houses.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 70 0

Developer/Manufacturer:

Lockheed Martin, Burlington, MA, Alion/

BMH, Norfolk, VA

Deployable Virtual Training Environment (DVTE)
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Description

Distance Learning (DL), also known 

as MarineNet) is the Marine Corps 

E-Learning Infrastructure that enables 

Marines to receive training and education 

via the appropriate interactive media, 

when and where the learning is needed. 

DL provides access to learning resources 

and performance support tools to a greater population of Marines. DL increases 

the effectiveness of training and education through use of advanced technology. 

DL consists of commercial-off-the-shelf 

hardware and software that runs on the 

Navy Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI)/

Marine Corps Enterprise Network. Various DL suites have been fielded to major 

Marine Corps bases and stations. DL

components are as follows: 

• Content Delivery Engines (Network 

Appliances that host content) 

• Centralized Learning Management System 

for Student Administration 

• Learning Resource Centers (LRC)

• Video Teletraining Training Centers

• Deployable Learning Resource Centers 

(DLCR)

Operational Impact

DL contributes to the Marine Corps’ 

operational readiness by providing all 

Marines with access to military occupational specialty and common skills 

training opportunities and professional 

military education. DL capabilities fill 

critical gaps in the training and education 

continuum and can reduce the amount 

of time Marines are required to be away 

from their home duty station attending 

formal training. DL gives the commander 

a better-trained Marine while increasing 

personnel availability to accomplish the 

unit’s mission.

Program Status

Three new LRCs have been delivered.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: LRCs: 2 2

Quantity: DLRCs: 27 0

Developer/Manufacturer:

Multiple vendors.

Distance Learning (DL)
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Description

Homestation Military Operations in 

Urban Terrain (MOUT) Training Systems consist of integrated structures, 

sniper towers, sub-terrain features and 

convoy training routes in geo-typical 

configurations to replicate the complexity 

of urban areas and small cities. Structures 

are multi-story and multi-configuration 

designs predominantly built of fabricated 

shipping containers. 

Operational Impact

Homestation MOUT Training Systems provide maneuver, live-fire, and 

non-live fire training spaces for Marine 

Air Ground Task Force Marine Expeditionary Unit and below urban operations 

to accomplish Level I, II and V Pre-deployment Training.

Program Status

This effort is a Marine Corps wide 

contract to meet the Homestation MOUT

non-live fire and live fire requirements 

for the next five years. Instrumentation of 

MOUTs with advanced video technologies will be included. 

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 

MOUT 7 35

TVCS 3 6

Developer/Manufacturer:

Global Solution Engineering

Homestation Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) Training 

Systems
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The Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group (MCTOG), located at the 

Marine Air Ground Task Force Training 

Center (MAGTFTC) in Twenty Nine 

Palms, California, will achieve full operating capability in spring 2009. MCTOG

was recently activated and provides advanced training in Marine Air Ground 

Task Force (MAGTF) operations, combined arms coordination and unit readiness, and training planning at the battalion 

and regimental levels, and synchronizes 

doctrine and training standards for the 

Ground Combat Element (GCE) in order to enhance combat preparation and 

performance of GCE units in MAGTF 

operations. The MCTOG accomplishes 

this task through the implementation 

of the Ground Combat Element Operations and Tactics Training Program (GCE

OTTP). The GCE OTTP creates a common ground “community of practice” for 

training and operations.

MCTOG is in phase three of its fourphased campaign plan moving toward full 

operational capacity. During the previous 

year, the command established operating 

procedures to support unit functioning; 

coordinated and implemented required 

manning, material resourcing, and facilities plans; developed and conducted 

proof of concept of the core OTI curriculum; and initiated required actions 

to establish the GCE OTTP. In the next 

year, the MCTOG is specifically focused 

on completing the expansion of unit capability to support the execution of all 

the organizational responsibilities of the 

GCE OTTP. 

Marine Corps Tactics and Operations 

Group (MCTOG)
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Reconstituting the Force

As the Marine Corps enters the sixth 

year of large scale combat and Counter 

Insurgency Operations (COIN), we focus 

on actions necessary to reconstitute the 

force to ensure our ability to meet both 

current and future requirements. The emphasis will be on creating a multi-capable 

force able to prosecute actions across the 

Range of Military Operations.

Future conflicts will likely consist 

of a hybrid of conventional war, irregular challenges, terrorism and criminality 

involving states, proxy forces and armed 

groups. Preparing the Marine Corps for 

hybrid challenges in complex environments requires proficiency across six core 

competencies as outlined in the Marine 

Corps Vision and Strategy 2025:

1. Persistent forward Naval presence

2. Integrated combined arms across the range 

of military operations with joint or multinational forces

3. Service aboard naval ships, on stations and for 

operations ashore

4. Amphibious landing force capabilities to conduct Joint Forcible Entry Operations from the 

sea

5. Complex expeditionary operations in urban 

littorals and other challenging environments

6. Lead joint and multinational operations and 

enable interagency activities
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To meet these challenges, Training 

and Education Command (TECOM) will 

provide a training environment that is 

responsive and relevant, preparing individual Marines and Marine Corps units 

via targeted and progressive training and 

continuous assessment.

Amphibious Core Training.In order 

to rebuild and maintain our amphibious 

capability, TECOM will prepare individual Marines and Marine Air Ground Task 

Forces (MAGTFs) by training alongside 

the Navy through such exercises as Tactical Commander Amphibious Training 

and Marine Expeditionary Brigade Exercises. A key enabler will be the establishment of a Naval Amphibious Center of 

Excellence. 

Combined Arms Exercise-Next 

(CAX-Next) is the next generation of 

regiment and MEB-level combined arms 

exercise program This program will be 

similar in scale to the type of combined 

arms training that was conducted prior to 

the OIF/OEF. It will include all elements 

of the MAGTF including command elements, ground combat elements, logistics 

combat elements, and aviation combat elements. CAX Next will provide the force 

with the combined arms skills that make 

the MAGTF a force multiplier, as well as 

continue to reinforce the skills necessary 

to operate in COIN.

MAGTFLarge-Scale Exercise (LSE). 

The MAGTF LSE is a Marine Expeditionary Brigade and Marine Expeditionary 

Force-level exercise program within a 

joint context that will include live / virtual 

/ constructive training across the United 

States and with amphibious forces afloat 

linked through the Joint Training and 

Experimentation Network. MAGTF LSE

will increase joint and amphibious capabilities as the Marine Corps reconnects 

with its amphibious heritage. 

Security Cooperation. TECOM is 

creating a standards-based pre-deployment training construct for advisor teams, 

stand up of a training support cadre, enhancements to training equipment sets, 

and development of related resources and 

funding for immediate operations. Additionally, TECOM is establishing training 

and standards for Civil Military Operations to include development of a Civil Affairs MOS course. These programs 

provide the Marine Corps the ability to 

interact with partner nations through 

Theater Security Cooperation and advisory groups to build partner capacity and 

promote security and stabilization with 

the engaged region.

Operational Culture and Language 

Training. TECOM supports the Corps’ 

pre-deployment training programs and 

builds the regional and cultural knowledge base by providing operational culture training, training support to our 

schools and the Marine Corps University 

and through contact with other cultural 

and language training and education organizations and coalition partners. We 

are assigning Lieutenants regional learning areas during The Basic School, building regional distance learning courses for 

career Marines, and have begun fielding 
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186

Language Learning Resource Centers at 

our largest bases and stations. This provides Marines with basic regional expertise in cultures and languages so they can 

act as knowledge resources for their units. 

This enables better operational planning, 

cultural interaction and enhances our capabilities to operate in any region of the 

world for combat and stability operations 

and to support theater security cooperation activities. 

Joint Training. TECOM integrates 

joint and interagency training into all 

pre-deployment training packages. Joint 

context improves the Corps’ capability to 

operate in a joint environment and work 

with other government and multinational 

agencies to across a range of operational 

activities.

Modeling and Simulation. TECOM 

is using new technology for modeling 

and simulation to develop multipurpose 

realistic and virtual reality trainers. These 

trainers will better prepare Marines for 

the complex battlefield of the future by 

providing a realistic, flexible and interactive learning environment that optimizes 

our use of training time and dollars.

Moving into the future, TECOM will 

integrate new capabilities with advanced 

training systems, schools and resources 

to provide every Marine with the skills required to be successful within a MAGTF.
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Marine Corps combat readiness 

depends on the continued availability of ranges and training areas (RTAs) 

that provide realistic, mission-oriented 

training in complex environments. The 

Marine Corps Training and Education 

Command (TECOM) has identified a 

comprehensive set of Corps-wide range 

requirements. These requirements are 

contained in a Marine Corps Reference 

Publication, which defines the unconstrained range capabilities needed for accomplishing both urgent immediate and 

anticipated future training needs.

TECOM has established six cornerstone objectives for transforming RTAs, 

including:

• Preserve and enhance the live-fire combined 

arms training capabilities of Marine Corps Air 

Ground Combat Center/Marine Air Ground 

Task Force (MAGTF) Training Command, 

29 Palms, CA and Marine Corps Air Station, 

Yuma Range Complex, AZ.

• Recapture the MAGTF and unit training capabilities of the nation’s two premier littoral 

training areas, Camp Lejeune, NC, and Camp 

Pendleton, CA.

• Leverage technology to support every level of 

training with a goal of providing timely and 

objective feedback to the training audience.

• Honor our commitments to protecting the 

environment, while preserving and enhancing 

our ability to conduct live-fire and maneuver 

training.

• Ensure that our training complexes are available to, and capable of supporting, crossService training.

• Support the emerging Joint National Training Capability with the common range infrastructure and systems architecture to ensure 

effective joint training.

The Corps has made significant investments in range instrumentation, targets, and simulation technologies to upgrade and modernize training. However, 

there remain areas of significant concern. 

Current range-complex configurations 

are not optimal for today’s training requirements, and they will not be adequate 

for future weapons systems. Our current 

range complexes provide insufficient unconstrained maneuver space for Marine 

Air Ground Task Force training. Our 

range-planning initiatives aim at addressing these concerns to assure our ability 

to meet future training requirements. 

Specific issues include:

• Marine Expeditionary Brigade -level fire and 

maneuver training area.

• East Coast aviation training range to accommodate the increased airspace and weapons 

requirements of precision-guided munitions 

and the Joint Strike Fighter.

• Enhanced training opportunities for Marine 

units stationed in the Pacific.

The Marine Corps has made considerable progress in the past seven years on 

cataloging, assessing, managing, and funding critical RTA complexes. There has been 

progress in identifying and quantifying the 

impacts of encroachment and incorporating those assessments into a comprehensive range management system. Important 

investments have been made to enhance 

range maintenance and modernization 

programs. Currently, all major Marine 

Corps installations are undergoing range 

modernization. The Corps is highly aware 

of the Service’s dual responsibilities of 

providing stewardship for these precious 

resources and producing ready, welltrained Marines when America calls.

Mission-Capable Training Ranges
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To prepare Marines and the operating forces for the current fights and operating environments, Training and Education Command developed an extensive 

Pre-deployment Training Program (PTP) 

based on the Pre-Deployment Training 

Continuum. The PTP establishes a coherent progression of skill-level training, 

conducted by commanders, and evaluated at PTP Mission Rehearsal Exercises 

(MRX) by the Marine Air Ground Task 

Force Command. Training (MAGTFTC) 

is conducted in four nested “blocks” in ascending competency levels. Marine Expeditionary Force commanders determine 

what level of competency is required for 

each deploying unit based on mission essential task analysis, set unit priority for 

service level training events, and ensure 

units participating in service-level training events have appropriate support attachments during respective blocks of 

training. 

The Pre-deployment Training Continuum comprises:

Block 1: Consisting of two sections, blocks 1A

and 1B.

• Block 1A consists of common combat 

skills training for individuals who are 

deploying to any theater of operation.

• Block 1B consists of individual-level 

common combat skills training directed 

by the Combatant Commander 

(COCOM) (e.g. Central Command 

is the COCOM for Operation Iraqi 

Freedom/Operation Enduring Freedom 

(OIF/OEF)).

Block 2: Consisting company-level and lower 

core capabilities training and theater-specific 

training conducted within a unit (e.g. 3000-

6000 level core capabilities to company level 

collective tasks).

• (e.g.) Infantry Officer(INF-OFF) - 6108 

Conduct a Patrol

• (e.g.) Communications Operator -3201 

Establish a Single Channel Radio Site

Block 3: Based on Mission Essential Task 

(MET) advanced core capabilities (or core plus 

for aviation) training. This training is conducted 

by a battalion and regimental sized unit, by the 

unit’s headquarters, and/or by other agencies 

(e.g. 7000- 8000 level advanced core capabilities 

to collective task).

• (e.g.) INF-OFF-7113 Conduct a raid

• (e.g.) MET 7 – Conduct offensive 

operations

Block 4: Consists of final work-up training 

and an assessment of the unit’s ability to fulfill 

its mission essential task list(s) (METL). It is 

accomplished through the MRX. Most Block 

4 training is supported by MAGTFTC during 

Exercises Mojave Viper, Desert Talon, and Advisor Training Group Transition Team Training. 

Units unable to attend MAGTFTC-supported 

MRXs conduct approved Alternate MRXs prior 

to certification.

Exercise Mojave Viper

Conducted aboard Marine AirGround Combat Center (MCAGCC) in 

Twenty-nine Palms, California, the 29-

day Exercise Mojave Viper constitutes 

Block 4 of the PTP and is required of 

most units deploying for operations in 

Iraq or Afghanistan. Training focuses on 

Combined Arms integration of both kinetic and non-kinetic effects with maneuver, counterinsurgency lines of operation, 

urban operations, IED defeat, Counterradio-controlled-IED Electronic Warfare 

(CREW), and Irregular Warfare (IW) 

within a Joint, whole-of-government context. Exercise Mojave Viper culminates 

in a four-day final evolution that assesses 

the unit’s ability to accomplish its METL

and leads to certification for deployment. 

Exercise Mojave Viper is a Joint National 

Training Capability accredited and certified program.

Predeployment Training Program (PTP)
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189

Exercise Desert Talon

Conducted aboard Marine Corps Air 

Station Yuma and supported by Marine 

Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron 

One (MAWTS-1), Desert Talon is a twoweek training exercise designed to prepare Marine Corps aviation and aviation 

ground support units for deployment. 

Desert Talon consists of an academic 

phase (four days) and a flight phase (seven days). The academic phase consists of 

classroom-based instruction and evaluation that focuses on not only aviation issues, but also topics like force protection, 

motorized operations, casualty evacuation, and Improvised Explosive Device 

defeat. The flight phase includes training 

in the six functions of Marine Corps aviation to include convoy operation support, 

urban close air support, tactical recovery 

of aircraft and personnel, and forward 

air control.

Exercise Mountain Warrior

Conducted at the Mountain Warfare Training Center (MWTC) in Pickel 

Meadows, California and in nearby 

training areas at the Army Depot in 

Hawthorne, Nevada, Exercise Mountain 

Warrior provided theater-specific predeployment training for Marine units 

deploying to mountainous environments. 

The course consists of scalable, tailored, 

training packages for units ranging in 

size from the company to the battalion. 

While not a mandated segment of the 

PTP, Marine forces deploying for operations in Afghanistan continue to use 

Exercise Mountain Warrior as Block 3 

mountain and cold-weather training prior to conductiong pre-deployment training at Afghanistan-specific Mojave Viper 

exercises.

Pre-deployment Training Continuum

Figure 1 

Remediation and Sustainment Training

throughout every Block

CE/GCE/ACE/LCE METLs

CE/GCE/ACE/LCE METLs

Small Unit

Collective Tasks

Individual

Individual Individual

Deployment

Red Line

(Minimum)

Units

at 

Home

Service

Directed

METL

Based

Training

BLOCK 1B

BLOCK 1A

BLOCK 2

BLOCK 3

BLOCK 4 MAGTFTC MRX w/

Supporting Agencies

(ADVANCED) CORE CAPABILITIES

(BATTALION - SIZED UNITS)

7000 LEVEL

THEATER SPECIFIC CORE PLUS INDIVIDUAL SKILLS

SUSTAINED CORE SKILS/CORE PLUS SKILLS TRAINING/

IDENTIFIED COMMON SKILLS & SPECIFIED

FOR ALL INDIVIDUALS IN ALL DEPLOYMENTS

1000-2000 LEVEL

S U S T A I N M E N T

CORE CAPABILITIES TRAINING CURRENT OPERATING ENVIRONMENT PTP

(COMPANY LEVEL AND BELOW) 3000-6000 LEVEL
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The Marine Corps has more than $38 

billion worth of facilities used to train, 

house and provide quality of life for Marines, Sailors and their families. Examples 

of some of the most significant of these 

facilities are barracks, runways, sewage 

treatment plants, roads and electrical 

lines. These facilities are used to perform 

mission essential tasks, and they need to 

be appropriately maintained. Adequately 

sustaining required and mission essential 

facilities should be the highest facilitiesmanagement priority.

There are several tools in place or in 

development to ensure facilities readiness:

• Facilities Sustainment Model — An OSD 

model that calculates annual costs to preserve 

facility condition. POM-10 currently provides 

funding to the 90% level of the model, although recently additional funds throughout 

the year have been made available to fully 

fund sustainment.

• Shore Facilities Planning System — An asset 

management process that identifies facility 

requirements, deficiencies and surpluses and 

results in the development of a plan to satisfy 

facility deficiencies and eliminate facility 

surpluses at the installation level.

• Facilities Modernization Model — An OSD 

model that will help estimate the replacement 

investment necessary to maintain adequate 

facilities and replace inadequate facilities. 

• Facilities Operations Model — An OSD 

model in the final stages of development that 

will help estimate the cost of facilities support 

to include utilities, fire protection, janitorial 

and engineering management. Accurately 

estimating and programming for these relatively fixed costs is key to planning facilities 

expenditures.

Facilities Management
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As the Marine Corps has invested 

substantially to improve Family Housing, 

it has also focused on similar standard of 

living improvements for single enlisted 

Marines. The Commandant’s Bachelor 

Enlisted Quarters (BEQ) Initiative, initiated in 2006 as part of Program Objective 

Memorandum (POM) 2008, provides an 

investment of roughly $2.6 billion for 

constructing new bachelor housing facilities, improvements to existing BEQs, and 

furnishings for the then projected endstrength of 180,000 Marines. With the 

unprecedented funding and implementation of Grow the Force and the new target 

end strength of 202,000 Marines, even 

more barracks are being programmed to 

meet the new requirement. Given the expectation that in many locations Marines 

will arrive before final BEQ construction 

is complete, we are planning for and defining resources to provide interim support facilities through various means that 

could include lease/rental/purchase of 

temporary lodging facilities. The barracks 

in the original POM 2008 Initiative Plan, 

will be in place by 2012, and the Grow the 

Force BEQs are planned for completion 

by FY 2014.

Of note, we are not just constructing “basic” BEQs as we have in the past. 

The new BEQs will be state-of-the-art 

living facilities for our Marines and will 

include rooms with improved aesthetics 

and bathrooms configurations, enhanced 

recreation and laundry rooms, and well 

be designed to optimize climate control 

and energy efficiency. For our existing 

BEQs, we are continuing our Whole Room 

Concept replacement furniture program, 

to replace entire room furnishings on a 

cyclical basis, well before they become 

un-useable. 

ALMAR 106/98 addressed the need 

for policies that properly assign Marines 

to rooms/spaces, articulate visitation 

procedures, allow responsible alcohol 

consumption and establish guidance on 

proper room decorum. The 2006 Bachelor Enlisted Quarters (BEQ) Campaign 

Plan provides a common roadmap for 

management of our BEQs. It takes into 

consideration change in barracks design 

and billeting configurations and clarifies 

the Commandant’s intent to provide an 

atmosphere that supports unit development and cohesion while respecting barracks as the homes of our single Marines.

2006

$39.6M

800 MS

2007

$166.6M

2400 MS

2008

$341.3M

4350 MS

2009

$1168.1M

12370 MS

2010

$196.3M

1836 MS

2011

$656.0M

5436 MS

2012

$196.4M

1650 MS

2013

$86.0M

940 MS

(Note: MS = Total man spaces that will be constructed with the funding provided for that fiscal year)

Barracks Initiative
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192

Upon reexamination of the Marine 

Corps’ structure and manning relative 

to its expected long term mission needs, 

the President approved a permanent end 

strength increase of 27,000 Marines, from 

the base of 175,000 to 202,000 Marines. 

To ensure that these Marines have adequate facilities in which to live and work, 

the President’s FY 2007 Supplemental 

request included $324 million to accomplish critical-path infrastructure projects. 

In 2008, Congress approved construction 

projects that totaled $668 million in the 

FY 2008 Global War on Terrorism and 

the FY 2008 Military Construction and 

Family Housing programs. In FY 2009, 

the President submitted a request for an 

additional $1.4 billion for Military Construction and Family Housing. The balance of this investment, including military construction and family housing, is 

being aggressively programmed.

Military Construction Supporting Grow the Force
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Description

The Range Modernization and 

Transformation (RM/T) program modernizes major Marine Corps base and station live training ranges with a dynamic 

training system capable of real-time and 

post-mission battle tracking, data collection and the deliverance of value-added 

After Action Review. Interface with installation command and control training 

centers (e.g., Battle Staff Training Facility, 

Combined Arms Staff Trainer and Battle 

Staff Simulation Center). It is paramount 

to producing multiple scenario events 

that deliver relevant and realistic training. Integrating live and simulated training technologies, the fielded capabilities 

actively enhance live-fire, force-on-target 

and force-on-force training through extensive after action review with ground 

truth feedback (objective versus subjective), realistic representation of opposing 

forces (OPFOR) and enhanced range and 

exercise control capabilities.

Operational Impact

RM/T links Marine Corps live training to the tenets of Training Transformation (T2)–Joint National Training Capability and Joint Assessment and Evaluation 

Capability. Instrumentation allows Service 

and Joint virtual and constructive forces to 

interact with Marine Corps live training 

forces from distributed locations. Eventually expanded to also incorporate coalition 

forces, Marine Air Ground Task Force live 

training in open and urban terrain is enhanced by providing capabilities to conduct realistic training which exercises all 

battlefield operating systems, and by allowing continuous assessment of performance, interoperability and identification 

of emerging requirements.

Program Status

Efforts are currently either under 

contract or under source selection to develop and/or produce ground position 

Range Modernization/Transformation (RM/T)
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194

location systems, instrumented tactical 

engagement simulation systems, OPFOR

threat systems (including targets), and 

Data Collection Systems in order to instrument the live training environment at 

multiple Marine Corps Bases and Stations 

during 2009 and 2010. A current parallel 

effort is enhancing the RM/T Data Collection System (known as the Marine 

Corps-Instrumented Training System) 

to provide interface of improvised explosive device and Counter Radio-controlled 

Improvised Explosive Device Electronic 

Warfare System surrogate devices with 

live training audiences and to extend the 

Data Collection System functions from 

exercise design through playback and 

After Action Review. Portions of this effort being fielded include the Reactive Information Propagation and Planning for 

Lifelike Exercises and Combined Arms 

Planning Tool software applications.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 

I-TESS 300 300

Targets 500+ 500+

IRSS 2 2

MC-ITS (DCS) 1 1

MC-TIEDs 144 0

T-CREW Surrogates 296 0

RIPPLE 1 0

RPG Surrogates 40 0

T-IED Kits (non-pyro) 100+ 100+

VBIEDs 20 20

EOD Training Kits 0 44

Developer:

Concurrent Technology Corporation, 

Georgia Institute of Technology Research 

Institute, SRI International, UNITECH, 

others pending procurement awards.
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Encroachment is defined as any external force that causes the loss of military readiness, including the loss of use 

of land, air and sea space as well as the 

frequency spectrum. Monitoring, evaluating and responding to encroachment 

is critical to ensuring bases, ranges and 

airspace are available to support mission readiness now and in the future. The 

Sustainable Ranges Initiative is a process 

that integrates all aspects of installation 

and range/training area management, 

and provides for the installations’ and 

the regions’ long-term viability and ability to support realistic training. The Marine Corps is proactively engaged with 

federal, state and local governments, as 

well as non-governmental organizations, 

to develop mutually satisfactory solutions 

to encroachment pressures that will allow 

compatible land use and environmental 

protection without degrading military 

mission readiness. 

Encroachment Control 
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The purchase of electricity, natural 

gas, heating fuels and potable water necessary to operate facilities represents a 

significant expense to the Marine Corps. 

In addition, the Energy Policy Act of 2005 

(EPAct 2005), Energy Independence and 

Security Act of 2007 (EISA 2007) and Executive Order 13423 set the framework 

to achieve national goals to reduce both 

greenhouse gas emissions associated with 

the burning of fossil fuels and our nation’s 

dependence on foreign oil. Specifically, 

EISA 2007 mandates federal agencies reduce energy intensity (energy consumption per square foot) by 3% annually 

(30% by 2015) relative to 2003 baseline. 

Executive Order 13423 requires water 

consumption intensity (gallons used per 

square foot) be reduced by 2% annually 

(16% by 2015) relative to 2007 baseline. 

In order to improve the energy and water 

efficiency of its existing buildings, incorporate sustainable design principles in 

the construction of new buildings and increase the use of renewable energy technologies, the Marine Corps is: 

• Using Energy Savings Performance Contracts 

and Utility Energy Service Contracts to develop 

and implement cost effective: (1) energy and 

water conservation measures; (2) renewable energy technologies such as biomass, geothermal, 

solar, and wind; and (3) electrical load shedding 

and demand reduction strategies.

• Complying with EPAct 2005 requirements to 

meter buildings and to procure energy consuming products that are ENERGY STAR®-qualified 

or Department of Energy Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) designated (upper 

25% of energy efficiency in their class).

• Requiring new building construction and major renovations to achieve a U.S. Green Building 

Council’s Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) rating of Silver to the extent 

practical and cost effective.

• Aggressively developing renewable energy (solar, wind, biomass and geothermal) projects 

wherever feasible and economically viable at 

all UMSC installations.

• Issuing a new “Energy & Water Management 

Program Campaign Plan–Facilities” to increase 

user awareness (both in workplace and for onbase BQ and housing residents) as to our energy reduction mandates and energy conservation priorities and programs.

Installation Energy Conservation 
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The Marine Corps has implemented 

an enterprise-level commercial vehicle 

fleet management system to efficiently 

operate its GME fleet. FleetFocusTM Fleet 

Anywhere is a comprehensive, Web-enabled, Windows-based FMS that tracks 

an unlimited number of GME assets and 

supports an unlimited number of workstations in multiple locations. This system 

provides comprehensive recording and 

reporting of GME fleet management data 

in order to maximize the efficient use of 

Marine Corps commercial vehicle assets. 

The Marine Corps now has an unprecedented view of enterprise-wide GME usage and maintenance costs. This capability 

supports annual GME procurement/lease 

decisions and forecasting future GME

requirements. This database and reporting capability are supporting GME Fleet 

regionalization, eliminating redundant 

overhead and improving utilization of 

transportation assets. Through the use of 

FMS and application of lessons learned, 

underutilized vehicles are being removed 

from service, thereby keeping the overall 

size of the fleet in check, reducing fuel 

consumption and identifying the optimal 

time to replace equipment assets. 

Future capability enhancements include: (1) expanding the FMS capability 

to the maintenance shop level in order 

to capture maintenance activity at the 

point of “sale,” improving data accuracy 

and timeliness; and (2) interfacing with 

or transition into a future block of Global 

Combat Support System–Marine Corps 

when it supports installation logistics 

functions.

Garrison Mobile Equipment (GME) 

Fleet Management System (FMS)
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Marines and their families have reasonable expectations for quality of life. 

The Marine Corps surveys Marines and 

families on their perceptions and satisfaction, evaluates the results and invests 

in quality of life improvements as necessary. The Quality of Life in the Marine 

Corps Study, administered in late 2007, 

was previously conducted in 1993, 1998, 

and 2002. This study, sponsored by the 

Deputy Commandant for Manpower and 

Reserve Affairs (M&RA), assesses Marine 

and Spouse satisfaction in various life domains that span the spectrum of programs 

and services from residence and neighborhood, to social networks and personal 

relationships, to income and jobs. 

The outcome of the 2007 Study, with 

final results published in the summer of 

2008, was very positive, indicating that 

the quality of life of Marines and their 

families remains strong, and is improving. 

In testament to their honor, courage and 

commitment, Marines and family members report satisfaction with their mission 

and the support provided by the Marine 

Corps. This high level of satisfaction reported in the study has a direct correlation to high marks for career intentions 

and a strong organizational commitment 

to the Corps. These results are particularly noteworthy given the heightened and 

sustained operational tempo since the last 

Quality of Life (QOL) study in 2002. 

As seen in previous Quality of Life 

Studies, lower satisfaction in Bachelor 

Enlisted Quarters/Bachelor Officers Quarters (BEQ/BOQ) and Income and Standard of Living was a noteworthy theme. 

However, both areas showed improvement over the 2002 results of Marines surveyed. Lower quality of life perceptions 

were more prevalent in the responses of 

lower-ranking enlisted Marines. 

All stakeholders within the Marine 

Corps will utilize this data to inform policy, plans, and programming decisions. 

Specifically, in-depth analysis will focus 

on issues with BEQ/BOQ, Income and 

Standard of Living, Leisure and Recreation Activities, Military Job, and Separations. 

The Marine Corps will continue to 

use evaluation processes to monitor quality of life of Marines and their families, 

and plans on re-administering the QOL

Study in the 2010 timeframe.

Quality of Life (QOL)
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Today’s Marines and families carry 

on the long legacy of selfless service to our 

Nation, and the Marine Corps continues 

its commitment to care for Marines and 

their families, and help them secure family readiness. 

Over the past year, a series of assessments were conducted for the purpose of documenting service levels and 

evaluating the current state and efficiency 

of Corps-wide Marine and family support programs and services. In hearing 

the concerns of both Marines and their 

families, the Commandant directed unprecedented resources and authorized 

key reforms to transition programs and 

to improve the overall Quality of Life in 

the Corps. These reforms, which are being implemented now and will be fully in 

place within the next few years, include: 

• Unit Family Readiness and Marine Corps 

Family Team Building. Programs are being 

expanded to support extended family members that include the Marine, spouse, child, 

and parents. Specific actions include: establishing Family Readiness Officer billets at the 

Marine Expeditionary Force, Major Subordinate Command, battalion and squadron levels; 

increasing Marine Corps Community Services 

personnel at the bases and stations; refocusing 

and applying technological improvements to 

our official communication network between 

commands and families; dedicating appropriate baseline funding to command level family 

readiness programs; and developing a standardized, high quality volunteer recognition 

program that reflects an appropriate level of 

support and reward.

• Exceptional Family Member Program. Parental stress can be heightened for families 

who are not only impacted by the current operational tempo, but who are also caring for a 

child with special needs. Efforts are underway 

to create a continuum of care and ensure appropriate access and availability to medical, 

educational, and financial services. Supporting actions include: increasing the number 

of full-time Exceptional Family Member 

Program staff; procuring a case management 

system and capability to electronically process 

enrollments; implementing legal advisement 

on educational challenges; and instituting up 

to 40 hours per month of respite care at no 

cost to families with special needs. Program 

improvements reflect the Marine Corps commitment to ensure all of our nearly 7,200 exceptional family members receive care and 

services needed to support their health, education and welfare. 

• School Liaison. The education of over 51,000 

school-age children of Marine Corps parents 

has been identified as a readiness and retention issue that is being addressed through the 

establishment of a national, regional and installation level School Liaison capability. The 

School Liaisons will help parents and Commanders interact with local schools, districts 

and state governments to help resolve educational issues. They will also help ease the stress 

and challenges associated with the frequent 

transition of Marine children that are as moTaking Care of Marines and Families
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200

bile as their military parent. To help address 

the varying standards and sufficiency of state 

education systems, the Marine Corps and the 

Department of Defense are working to develop an “Education Compact” with states to 

promote reciprocal acceptance of coursework 

and graduation requirements, support military student transition and enhance the overall 

quality of education. 

• Remote and Isolated Command Support. 

The Marine Corps is taking action to provide 

needed improvements at remote and isolated 

installations that require infrastructure or 

expanded programs to appropriately provide 

Marines and their families a reasonable quality 

of life. Improvements are increasing the depth 

and breadth of program offerings and include 

child care availability and support, playground 

equipment, youth and sports equipment, fitness center equipment, safe pathways, and facility modernization and refurbishment. 

• Communications. Communications has been 

identified as the number one quality of life 

priority for deployed Marines and families. As 

such, the Marine Corps is establishing a WIFI

capability aboard all Marine Corps installations as well as rolling-out enhanced deployed 

satellite communications to facilitate internet 

access between deployed Marines and their 

families. 

• Installation Support. Other initiatives that 

are transforming Marine and family readiness 

include: single Marine and family program 

support, equipment and furnishings; extended 

child care; and infrastructure strategies (e.g., 

Child Development Centers, libraries, recreation centers, teen centers, and fitness centers 

and bike paths). 

Although significant progress is underway, the Marine Corps is continuing 

to aggressively re-assess, evaluate and 

further transition Corps-wide Marine 

and family support capabilities. This exciting transformation, made possible 

by the unwavering commitment of the 

Commandant and all levels of Marine 

Corps leadership, is captured in the new 

Marine Corps Community Services Vision and Strategy 2025, which establishes 

the foundation of operational concepts 

and the critical steps to properly organize, train, equip, and prepare to meet tomorrow’s challenges today. This strategy 

document, which is nested in the broader 

Marine Corps Vision and Strategy 2025, 

serves as the catalyst that assures mission 

accomplishment: Taking Care of Marines 

and Their Families. 
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Formed in April of 2007, the Wounded Warrior Regiment (WWR) integrated 

the roles and functions of the Marine 

Corps’ Marine For Life wounded, ill, 

and injured (WII) program and immediately began to assume responsibilities 

for non-medical wounded warrior care. 

The Regimental Headquarters element, 

located in Quantico, Virginia, commands 

the operations of two wounded warrior 

battalions located at Camp Pendleton, 

California, and Camp Lejeune, North 

Carolina. The Regimental Headquarters 

is striving to eliminate any gaps in the 

medical recovery system by providing 

unity of command and effort through a 

single commander. This Command provides guidance, direction, and oversight 

to the Marine Corps wounded warrior 

process. The WWR also commands Military Treatment Facilities Patient Affairs 

Teams (PATs), Marine Corps liaisons 

at Department of Veterans Affairs Polytrauma Rehabilitation Centers, District 

Injured Support Cells (DISCs), and Naval 

Hospital Liaisons.

The mission of the WWR is to provide and facilitate assistance throughout 

the phases of recovery of WII Marines, 

Sailors attached to or in direct support 

of Marine units, and their family members throughout the phases of recovery. 

In addition to the regimental and battalion staffs, this effort is facilitated through 

the dedicated on-site PATs and through 

regional DISCs who conduct visits and 

telephone outreach to Reserve and former Marines dispersed throughout the 

country. This effort is also accomplished 

through close coordination with Inspector-Instructor sites that assist in the patient affairs mission at civilian hospitals 

without PAT representation. This structure facilitates face-to-face contact when 

providing program information and assistance to service members, family and 

medical facility staff. Some of the common assistance provided by the WWR

includes:

• Guide WII Marines through medical and 

physical evaluation boards processes;

• Assist wounded Marines in filing Traumatic 

Service Members Group Life Insurance claims;

• Coordinate charitable gifts, donations, or 

other types of offers of assistance to our 

WII Marines; 

• Coordinate and oversee non-medical 

case management during recovery for 

wounded warriors;

• Ensure that injured Marines receive the 

Wounded Warrior Regiment (WWR)
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same level of medical care regardless of 

geographic location;

• Oversees the transition from Department of 

Defense (DoD) care to Department of Veterans Affairs care;

• Facilitate Department of Labor employment 

opportunities for separating WII Marines

Close working relationships with other governmental agencies is an important 

aspect of solving problems for our WII

Marines and Sailors. With this in mind, 

WWR has two field grade officers at the 

Headquarters of the Department of Veterans Affairs’ Federal Recovery Coordinator’s Office to facilitate the transition 

process and the receipt of benefits. WWR

also has both a Department of Labor representative and a Department of Veterans 

Affairs representative at the Regimental 

headquarters who work in the newly-established Transition Assistance Cell to find 

jobs for transitioning wounded warriors.

Communication is another critical element in identifying and resolving 

problems encountered by our wounded, 

ill, and injured Marines and Sailors. The 

Wounded Warrior Call Center (1-877-

487-6299) receives calls from these Marines and Sailors and their families and 

conducts outreach calls to those wounded, ill, and injured since 2001. Additionally, a toll free number (1-866- 645-8762) 

has been established in Landstuhl, Germany for families to contact their Marines and Sailors medically evacuated out 

of theater.

In preparation for the challenges associated with caring for our WII in the 

years and decades to come, WWR has established a Future Initiatives Transformation Team (FITT) to refine our processes 

and identify tools and resources needed 

in the future to meet these challenges 

head on.
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In 2008, the Marine For Life (M4L) 

Program returned to its classic mission 

of providing transition assistance to the 

25,000 Marines honorably leaving active 

service annually as they return to civilian 

life. Over 100 Hometown Links (HTLs) 

composed of Reserve Individual Mobilization Augmentee (IMA) Marines located throughout the country continue to 

build local networks of veteran friendly 

employers, mentors, Marine affiliated 

and other Veterans Service Organizations, and local, state and federal agencies 

in order to assist transitioning Marines. 

These HTL networks provide information on employment and a plethora of 

educational and scholarship opportunities, veterans’ benefits, and community 

information available to our transitioning Marines. All Marines and Sailors who 

have been attached to Marine units and 

who are honorably discharged from active service are eligible and encouraged to 

utilize M4L. While M4L focuses primarily on transitioning Marines, as an additional function, their HTLs continue to 

support the Wounded Warrior Regiment, 

especially in coordinating and referring 

new cases of Marine veterans injured, ill, 

or wounded since 2001.

Marine For Life (M4L)
chapter 3

part 8 

other support
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Introduction

“Other support” is also critical to the effectiveness of the individual Marine on the 

battlefield as well as to the Corps as an expeditionary force with global reach and effectiveness. End-items here range from the Vehicular Multi-Band Radio to Non-Lethal 

Munitions to Ground-Based Air-Defense Transformation that focuses on defeating 

airborne threats with advanced Man-Portable Air-Defense Systems. Another threat 

that has generated increased concern is from chemical weapons, which has spawned 

development of the Joint Chemical Agent Detector to protect the individual Marine 

and small units.

While many of these “other support” initiatives have their operational impacts at 

the tactical level, others can have operational as well as strategic effects. For example, 

the Marine Corps Operation Center will be the focal point of the Corps’ centralized 

Information Operations resources, to provide responsive, effective and full-spectrum 

psychological operations. Ultimately, Information Operations will become a core military competency within the Marine Corps — helping to win the hearts and minds of 

our adversaries. 
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Description

The Force Protection Capability Set 

(FPCS) contains the equipment required 

to satisfy the operational requirement 

for an enhanced capability to apply nonlethal force. The FPCS consists of three 

component capability sets: The NonLethal Capability Training Set (NLCTS), 

Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection Checkpoint Set (ATFPCS) and the Non-Lethal 

Weapons Capability Set (NLWCS).

The NLWCS provides an effective and 

scalable response capability in non-lethal 

situations. The components are explicitly 

designed and primarily employed to incapacitate personnel or material, while 

minimizing fatalities or permanent injury 

to intended targets and collateral damage 

to property and the environment. They 

are not required to have zero probability 

of producing fatalities or permanent injuries but are designed and employed in 

a manner that significantly reduces those 

probabilities over the traditional employment of currently fielded military weapon 

systems, munitions, and equipment. 

The ATFPCS was fielded in response 

to AT/FP requirements addressing the 

Marine Corps’ AT/FP mission, highlighting shortcomings in the area of force protection equipment. The kit includes vehicle stopping and under vehicle screening 

and searching devices, explosive detection, floodlights, metal detectors, communication assets, as well as other equipment.

The NLCTS is modeled for the Table 

of Equipment of a Marine rifle company. 

The equipment assists with training and 

proficiency in a realistic environment. 

Items in the NLCTS include inert OC 

sprays, training batons, riot gear, and other training devices.

Operational Impact

The FPCS provide the appropriate 

equipment to employ a range of nonlethal operations short of deadly force. 

The fielding of the FPCS to the Operating 

Forces is intended to augment existing 

lethal capabilities.

Program Status

63 NLWCS, 13 NLCTS and 126 ATFPCS have been procured and fielded 

through fiscal year 2006.

Force Protection Capability Sets
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Description

The Green Beam Designator Laser 

System (GBD-IIIC) is an Escalation of 

Force (EoF) non-lethal device that provides a visual warning capability to gain 

the attention of personnel approaching 

lethal force authorized zones. This system 

will provide safe and effective visual hail 

and warn technology to minimize the 

risk of injury or death to civilian and military personnel as well as limit collateral 

damage to property and local infrastructure. To further reduce the risk of injury, 

a Safety Control Module (SCM) will be 

incorporated onto the GBD-IIIC. The 

SCM prevents inadvertent lazing within 

the nominal ocular hazard distance of 

the system.

Operational Impact

The GBD-IIIC will allow personnel 

engaged in combat, stability and security, and force protection operations to 

employ an intense visual cueing device 

to hail and warn personnel and vehicles 

at safe standoff distances. The GBD-IIIC, 

along with other non-lethal weapons systems, will provide EoF capabilities to protect Marines against the threat of Vehicle 

Borne Improvised Explosive Devices. 

Program Status

A total of 1,185 GBD-IIICs have been 

fielded. Deliveries of the SCM will begin 

in third quarter fiscal year 2009. The GBD

IIIC is planned to be replaced by the Ocular Interruption Device beginning in 

fiscal year 2011.

Green Beam Designator–III Custom (GBD-IIIC)
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Description

Joint Materiel Decontamination 

Systems (JMDS) is a joint program consisting of a family of systems which will 

provide decontamination capabilities for 

sensitive equipment: optics, communications-electronics, electronics, avionics, computer systems, test equipment, 

sensitive weapons systems, and aviation 

life-support equipment; and platform interiors without degradation to the equipment in an immediate, operational, and 

thorough environment. 

Operational Impact

The Marine Corps will employ the 

sensitive equipment capability to conduct 

thorough decontamination of sensitive 

equipment at ground and shipboard locations as required.

Program Status

Milestone B SD&D phase contract 

awarded 26 Sept 2007; Currently conducting post MS B developmental efforts.

Developer/Manufacturer:

Teledyne Brown Engineering, Inc., Los 

Angeles, CA; BioQuell, Horsham, PA; and 

QuickSilver, Corporate, Abingdon, MD

Joint Materiel Decontamination Systems (JMDS)
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Description

The Non-gasoline Burning Outboard 

Engine (NBOE) is a 55HP, electronically 

fuel-injected, outboard engine with multifuel capability that will be able to use diesel, JP-5, JP-8 and gasoline fuels with no 

performance reduction. This engine will 

allow Marines to deploy globally, using 

available fuels, while minimizing the safety risks and transportation restraints of 

current gasoline-only engines. This new 

capability will enable the Marine Corps 

to comply with the single battlefield fuel 

initiative. 

Operational Impact

The NBOE will replace the current 

Small Craft Propulsion System and will 

be used to power the Combat Rubber 

Raiding Craft (CRRC) during small craft 

operations. The NBOE will possess the 

necessary performance capabilities to 

power a combat loaded CRRC, in support 

of expeditionary reconnaissance and raid 

missions. Typical mission profiles will 

consist of tactical movements of Marine 

reconnaissance or raiding forces from 

Over-The-Horizon. The NBOE will also 

be used in littoral operations in support 

of Operational Maneuver from the Sea.

Program Status

The NBOE is in the engineering 

and manufacturing development phase 

of the acquisition life cycle. The Marine 

Corps purchased six (6) production-like 

NBOE in fiscal year 2006 for testing. During fiscal year 2007-2008, Marine Corps 

Systems Command, in conjunction with 

the Marine Corps Operational Test and 

Evaluation Activity, conducted performance testing and Field Users Evaluation to determine its ability to meet all 

performance requirements. Procurement 

of all production engines planned for fiscal year 2009. Fielding of the NBOE is 

planned to begin in first quarter of fiscal 

year 2010 and continue to completion in 

fourth quarter fiscal year 2010.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 585 0

Developer/Manufacturer:

Bombardier Recreational Products

Non-gasoline Burning Outboard Engine (NBOE)
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Description

The Reactive Skin Decontamination 

Lotion (RSDL) is a Joint Program consisting of decontaminant(s) and applicator(s) 

required to immediately reduce morbidity and mortality resulting from Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear 

(CBRN) contamination of the skin. The 

RSDL will augment the currently fielded 

M291 Skin Decontaminating Kit (SDK) 

through attrition. There is also an RSDL

Training (RSDL-T) packet that will be 

used for training.

Operational Impact

RSDL is a medical item that will be 

employed by individual warfighters to 

immediately reduce morbidity and mortality resulting from CBRN contamination on skin. The primary purpose of 

RSDL will be to provide improved skin 

decontamination capabilities over those 

currently provided by the M291 SDK. 

Program Status

The RSDL received a Milestone C Full 

Rate Production approval in March 2007 

and is currently being fielded. The Joint 

Program Manager and the Marine Corps 

have procured 3263 packages to date and 

continue to procure to the AAO.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 

Training Pouches TBD

Active Pouches TBD

Developer/Manufacturer:

EZM, Lake Success, NY

Reactive Skin Decontamination Lotion (RSDL)
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The Marine Corps Information Operations Center (MCIOC), scheduled for 

initial operation in third quarter FY 2009, 

will be the Marine Corps’ centralized Information Operations (IO) resource and the 

Executive Agent for the Marine Corps Information Operation Program (MCIOP). 

Headquartered on Marine Corps Base 

Quantico, the MCIOC will develop Marine 

Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) IO tactics, techniques, procedures and doctrine 

in addition to supporting MAGTF operations and work within the Expeditionary 

Force Development System to define required MAGTF IO capabilities. 

The MCIOC’s mission is to provide 

MAGTF Commanders and the Marine 

Corps a responsive and effective, fullspectrum IO planning and psychological operations (PSYOP) delivery capability. The MCIOC will execute its mission 

by deploying scalable task-organized IO

support teams and tactical PSYOP teams, 

as well as by providing a comprehensive 

general support IO “reach-back” capability which will ensure the integration of IO

into Marine Corps Operations. 

The MCIOC will be staffed with subject matter experts (SME) representing IO

core, supporting and related capabilities, 

including:

• Mission planning

• Threat and nodal analysis

• Electronic Warfare (EW)

• Military Deception (MILDEC)

• Operations Security (OPSEC)

• Psychological Operations (PYSOP)

• Computer Network Operations (CNO)

• Supporting capability of Combat Camera

• Related capability of civil military operations

• Regional IO targeting

These SMEs will enable the MAGTF 

to plan and execute tactical IO to influence 

potential and realized adversary information, information systems and decisionmaking, while simultaneously assuring, 

protecting and defending similar Marine, 

Joint and Coalition Forces’ capabilities. 

The MCIOC’s deployable Field Support Teams (FST) will enable the MAGTF 

IO capability through tactically focused 

training, operational planning support, 

tactics development and formulation of 

IO requirements including research and 

development priorities. The FSTs will be 

capable of training MAGTF IO personnel 

in the five core capabilities of Information 

Operations (EW, PSYOP, OPSEC, MILDEC and CNO).

The FSTs will also help MAGTF IO

personnel understand IO techniques, tactics and procedures to effectively coordinate with Joint IO staffs, supporting and 

related IO capabilities. MCIOC FSTs will 

advise and assist the MAGTF IO staff in 

integrating IO into the MAGTF’s mission 

planning. These teams will be on call and 

task organized to meet the MAGTF commander’s requirements. 

The MCIOC “reach back” capability will facilitate the coordination of IO

resources and technology by leveraging 

SMEs within the Marine Expeditionary 

Forces; Marine Corps Forces assigned to 

Combatant Commands; Combat Development and Integration; Marine Corps Intelligence; Command, Control, Communications and Computers; Plans, Policies 

Marine Corps Information Operations Center (MCIOC)
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

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and Operations; Training and Education 

Command; as well as Joint, Department of 

Defense and other government agencies. 

As the Executive Agent for the MCIOP, 

the MCIOC will synchronize IO across all 

Marine Corps activities, integrate IO into 

all MAGTF plans and operations, provide 

a common service understanding and definition of Marine Corps IO and ensure that 

IO becomes a core military competency 

within the Marine Corps.
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Now more than ever, our warfighters 

need additional capabilities to help them 

engage threats on the increasingly complex battlefields of modern warfare, where 

distinguishing between adversaries and 

innocents is sometimes nearly impossible. 

Non-lethal weapons (NLWs) give warfighters controlled engagement options 

along the escalation of force continuum. 

These capabilities assist warfighters in 

discerning intent, delaying and deterring 

individuals, and discriminating targets in 

a variety of force application and force protection missions — all while minimizing 

casualties and damage to property.

The Department of Defense (DoD) 

defines non-lethal weapons as “weapons, 

devices and munitions that are explicitly 

designed and primarily employed to immediately incapacitate targeted personnel 

or materiel, while minimizing fatalities, 

permanent injury to personnel and undesired damage to property in the target 

area or environment. Non-lethal weapons 

are intended to have reversible effects on 

personnel and materiel.” While NLWs are 

designed with the intent to greatly reduce 

fatalities and permanent injuries in comparison with the use of lethal weapons in 

the same situations, they are not totally 

harmless. However, they provide warfighters with additional options before having 

to resort to lethal force.

The DoD Joint Non-Lethal Weapons 

Program (JNLWP) oversees Science and 

Technology exploration and the research, 

and development of NLWs and assists in 

the development of training programs. The 

Commandant of the Marine Corps serves 

as the DoD’s Executive Agent for NLWs.

NLWs have numerous counter-personnel and counter-materiel applications 

across the range of military operations, 

providing the commander escalationof-force options to achieve discriminate, 

tailored target effects and responses. Possible scenarios include checkpoint and 

port-security missions; convoy security; 

situations where enemies are using civilians as human shields; maintaining order during humanitarian-relief missions; 

and situations where adversaries’ military 

capabilities are co-located with civilian 

infrastructure. 

Many NLWs are currently fielded, with 

research efforts ongoing on a host of developing technologies that will make precision effects and controlled engagement 

available to the operational commander. 

Fielded NLWs include blunt-impact munitions, optical warning and distraction 

devices, acoustic hailing devices, vehicle 

arresting devices, flash-bang grenades and 

munitions and temporary incapacitation 

devices, such as human electro-muscular 

incapacitation (HEMI) devices. 

Among the many NLW technologies 

currently in the development stage are 

directed-energy high-powered microwave 

weapons such as the Active Denial System 

(ADS). The ADS projects a focused beam 

of millimeter waves to induce an intolerable heating sensation on an adversary’s 

skin, repelling the target with minimal risk 

of injury. The JNLWPis also researching 

high-power directed-energy vehicle- and 

vessel-stopping systems that use transmitters to disable the engines or computer 

Non-Lethal Weapons (NLW)
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

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systems of approaching or uncooperative 

vehicles or vessels. These developing technologies have the potential to provide tremendous new capabilities for U.S. forces in 

support of today’s complex missions.

For more information on NLWs, visit 

the JNLWP website at www.jnlwp.com.
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Description

The Communication Electronic 

Equipment Maintenance (CEEMC) Shelter is an extendable rigid-wall shelter that 

will provide a forward deployable Field 

Level maintenance facility. The CEEMC 

will provide a climate-controlled dust-free 

maintenance repair facility for operator 

crew maintenance repair through fieldlevel maintenance and repair of satellite 

radio systems, ground radio systems, telephone systems, fiber optic communication 

systems, Light Armored Vehicle (LAV) 

weapons systems, cryptographic equipment, small arms and future computer 

systems.

Operational Impact

The legacy 20-foot rigid-wall Equipment Maintenance Complex has reached 

its service life providing maintenance and 

repair work spaces for four or five Marines. 

The CEEMC is an expandable shelter that 

will provide enough work space for 8-to12 Marines. This added space will reduce 

the number of shelter requirements by 

one-third. The CEEMC is International 

Organization for Standardization certified, 

which reduces the overall logistical footprint by one-third for the Marine Corps. 

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 35 27

Communication-Electronic Equipment 

Maintenance Shelter (CEEMC)
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Description

The Marine Corps Family of Tactical 

Soft Shelters (FTSS) are shelters for tactical 

use that maximize modularity, ease of use, 

operational effectiveness, durability, and 

the ability to connect with vehicles and 

like shelters. It includes the Expeditionary 

Shelter System, Modular General Purpose 

System, Lightweight Maintenance Enclosure, Combat Tent, 10-Man Arctic Tent 

and the Extreme Cold Weather Tent. 

Operational Impact

The FTSS will provide protection from 

the natural environment to the Operating Forces for use in varied mission roles 

(i.e., Command and Control, Administration, Billeting, Supply, Medical, Dental 

and Messing). The FTSS is not designed 

to counter a specific threat. Rather, it is 

intended to improve the effectiveness with 

which a variety of battlefield functions are 

accomplished. 

Program Status

The FTSS is currently in Post Milestone C and is being fielded to the Operating Forces.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 6265 3917

Developer/Manufacturer: various

Family of Tactical Soft Shelters (FTSS)
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Description

The Family of Field Medical Equipment (FFME) consists of medical systems 

designed to provide Health Service Support personnel with the medical equipment and supplies necessary to maintain 

the combat effectiveness of the force and 

to safely stabilize and evacuate casualties 

from the battlefield. FFME Systems act as 

a force multiplier by ensuring equipment, 

supplies and medicine are available to 

treat the wounded and sick as far forward 

as possible and return them to the fight or 

evacuate. There are 31 different medical 

systems or Authorized Medical/Dental Allowance Lists (AMALs/ADALs). AMALs/

ADALs comprise medical equipment and 

materiel that provide Marine Corps units 

with point-of-injury care Individual First 

Aid Kit (IFAK), Corpsman Assault Pack 

(CAP) and Casualty Evacuation to Shock/

Surgical Triage, forward-resuscitative surgery, and post-operative En Route Care 

evacuation. 

Operational Impact

FFME systems provide the Marine 

Air Ground Task Force with Level I and 

II medical equipment and supplies to treat 

the wounded and sick and prevent the 

spread of disease. Loss of any of the capability provided by FFME systems would 

adversely affect health care management 

throughout the Marine Corps and potentially result in the loss of life. Each AMAL/

ADAL is modeled by the Naval Health 

Research Center (NHRC), verified by subject-matter experts (SMEs), and stocked 

to reflect current casualty rates and protocols. Planned enhancements to FFME

systems to improve the quality of health 

care provided to the warfighter include: 

the Combat Lifesaver Kit, Mobile Oxygen 

Ventilation and External Suction System, 

improved hemostatic bandages, emergency dental dressings, and a traumatic brain 

injury early detection capability.

Program Status

A review with NHRC, Headquarters 

Marine Corps, Marine Corps Combat Development Command, Marine Corps System Command and SMEs is conducted on 

each AMAL/ADAL every three years. The 

AMAL/ADAL is then updated with the 

latest state-of-the-art medical technology 

and reconfigured based on current casualty rates and protocols. New or updated 

equipment to be added to the AMAL/

ADAL is acquired and fielded the following year and obsolete equipment is properly disposed. 

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: various various

Developer/Manufacturer: various prime 

vendor contracts, integrators, and suppliers 

throughout the United States.

Family of Field Medical Equipment (FFME)
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Description

The VRC-103(V)2 Vehicular Multiband Radio (MBR-V) covers the entire 

30 to 512 MHz frequency range while offering embedded communication security, satellite communications (SATCOM) 

and electronic counter-counter measure 

capabilities. The MBR-V provides secure interoperability with Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio Systems 

(SINCGARS) and a host of other tactical 

radios. The MBR-V can be configured for 

man-pack, vehicular and base station applications suitable for operation in a multimode service environment.

The radio is interoperable with legacy 

encryption systems and acts as a translator between otherwise incompatible radios. The hardware can be reconfigured 

and software reprogrammed to optimize 

performance and add capabilities without 

opening the radio. 

Operational Impact

The MBR-V allows for VHF/UHF line 

of sight and SATCOM communications 

on the move. This allows units to effectively communicate to all other tactical radio 

platforms via SINCGARS, HAVEQUICK 

and other waveforms. The added internet protocol capability allows for tactical 

chat applications and data file transfers to 

be executed. 

The MBR-V operates in UHF SATCOM mode employing DAMA 5kHz and 

25kHz channels and is compatible with 

VINSON KY-57, ANDVT KY-99/99A, 

and KG-84A/C equipment. 

The MBR-V has 100 programmable 

nets and 10 DAMA presets.

Program Status

The MBR is in the Deployment Phase 

Post Milestone C. Marine Corps Systems 

Command currently has a production 

contract in place that facilitates acquisition 

with the Marine Corps, with fielding that 

commenced in 2005. The current contract 

has effectively reached its ceiling, with an 

estimated 2,000 systems remaining to be 

procured. The Marine Corps approved 

cquisition objective for the MBR-V is 

3,118 systems. 

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 2000 0

Vehicular Multi-Band Radio
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The Virtual Training Systems domain 

at Program Manager Training Systems 

supports the individual Marine, crew, section and platoon in familiarity, function, 

pre-deployment and sustainment of their 

warfighting skills. This is accomplished 

through virtual training systems that support motor transport vehicles (operator, 

maintenance and egress), combat vehicles 

(gunnery and tactics), convoy operations, 

weapons marksmanship and terminal attack controllers for both active and reserve 

forces. These training systems support the 

MAGTFs in preparing for their expeditionary military operations throughout 

Continental United States (CONUS) and 

Outside CONUS. 

The Combat Vehicle Training System – M1A1/LAV/AAV (CVTS-M1A1/

LAV/AAV) is a Program of Record based 

on an Operational Requirements Document that covers gunnery and tactical 

training for the M1A1 Main Battle Tank, 

Light Armored Vehicle-25 and the Assault Amphibious Vehicle. The M1A1 

and LAV-25 requirements are satisfied by 

the Advanced Gunnery Training System 

(AGTS). The AAV requirement is satisfied 

by the AAV-Turret Trainer (AAV-TT). The 

AGTS and AAV-TT provide the Marine 

Corps the ability to train M1A1, LAV-25 

and AAV crew members to the approved 

standards of combat skills and readiness. 

The end state systems are institutional and 

deployable training systems supporting individual, collective (crew, section, and platoon), combined arms and joint training 

scenarios. The AGTS’ are fielded at Camp 

LeJeune, 29 Palms, Camp Pendleton, Okinawa and multiple Reserve units throughout the CONUS. The AAV-TTs are fielded 

at Camp LeJeune, Camp Pendleton, Del 

Mar, Kaneohe Bay, Okinawa and multiple 

Reserve units throughout the CONUS.

The Combat Convoy Simulator (CCS) trainers provide an immersive 

training environment for convoy operations to include basic procedures for driver, gunner, and passengers including but 

not limited to weapons usage and target 

engagement, driver evasive action, command and control procedures within the 

vehicle and convoy, and general familiarity 

with terrain/environment to provide training for Marines in tactical scenarios related 

to combat operations. The CCS provides 

training for both vehicle operators and individuals in both vehicles and small arms 

weapon utilization, command and control, 

and improvised explosive device countermeasures. CCS trainers support the Urgent Universal Need Statement (UUNS) 

requirement approved by the MROC to 

train Marines in convoy operations prior 

to deploying to designated combat zones. 

The CCS is the third generation of convoy 

trainers. The CCS trainers are scheduled to 

be fielded to Camp LeJeune, Camp Pendleton, Mojave Viper, MCAGCC 29 Palms, 

Kaneohe Bay, and Okinawa. The first CCS 

unit was successfully fielded on 13 July 

2008 at Camp Pendleton, California.

The Virtual Combat Convoy Trainer–

Marine (VCCT-M) and Reconfigurable 

Vehicle Simulator (RVS) were procured 

by the Marine Forces Reserve based on urgent requirement. The VCCT-M is considVirtual Training Systems
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

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ered the first generation and the RVS the 

second generation of convoy trainers. The 

VCCT-M and RVS train Marines in basic 

and advanced combat convoy skills using 

variable terrain and roads in a variety of 

weather, visibility and vehicle operational 

conditions. The VCCT-M is a mobile, 

self-contained and self-supporting virtual 

simulation system that uses a HMMWV 

mock-up, small arms, crew-served weapons, a 360-degree visual display and afteraction review capability. The RVS is also a 

mobile virtual simulation, but utilizes two 

HMMWV mock-ups, small arms, crewserved weapons, and a 360-degree visual 

display in addition to relying on the VCCT-M after action review and instructor/

operator station for managing training. 

The VCCT-M is employed at 29 Palms as 

part of Mojave Viper and at Camp Upshur, 

Virginia and Reserve locations throughout 

the CONUS. The RVS is employed at 29 

Palms as part of Mojave Viper.

The Indoor Simulated Marksmanship Trainer (ISMT) consists of two configurations: ISMT–Enhanced (ISMT–E) 

and ISMT–Marine Security Guard (ISMT–

MSG). The purpose of the ISMT–E is to 

provide the Marine Corps with the ability 

to train individuals, fire teams and squads 

effectively and efficiently to the approved 

standards of combat skills and readiness, 

in a limited space and without the expenditure of costly live ammunition. The 

ISMT–E is an interactive audio and video 

weapons simulator that simulates Marine Corps ranges and provides enhanced 

marksmanship, weapons employment, 

crew served, collective, indirect fire and 

tactical decision-making training for the 

M9 pistol through the 81mm Mortar. New 

initiatives include enhanced training for 

moving targets, crew-served weapon using 

turret ring mounts, threat weapons, Optic 

training (ACOG, AN/PVS-7B/D Night 

Vision Goggles, AN/PVS-14 Monocular Night Vision Device, AN/PVS-17B/C 

Mini Night Vision Sight, AN/PSQ-18A

Grenade Launcher, and AN/PEQ-2A Infrared Aiming Light), and sensored M4A1 

simulated weapons. ISMT–E is used by 

the Reserve Forces, GCE, LCE and ACE

Units for sustainment and proficiency 

training in the use and employment of the 

Marine Corps small arms. Reserve forces 

use ISMT–E extensively to help prepare 

Marines for the Pre-deployment Training. 

There are 428 ISMT–E systems worldwide. 

The ISMT-MSG is a man portable, user 

friendly, digital based interactive defensive weapon handling and marksmanship 

trainer. This system was developed to train 

and sustain weapon skills with the M9 Beretta Service Pistol, the M4A1 Service Rifle 

and the M870 Remington (military) Shotgun. It provides the USMC and State Department qualification courses of fire, field 

firing and judgmental shooting situational 

training. There are a total of 151 ISMT–

MSG systems delivered to MSG Battalions 

and Embassies worldwide.

The United States Marine Corps–

Operator Driving Simulator (USMCODS) is a high-fidelity immersive technical skills trainer for teaching Marines how 

to safely drive select tactical wheeled vehicles including the MTVR, MTVR MAS, 

Up-Armored HMMWV, MRAP CAT I
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Cougar (Force Protection International, 

Inc. (FPII) variant) and the MRAP CAT III

Buffalo (also FPII). The USMC–ODS is an 

interactive, reconfigurable training device 

which provides realistic feedback to the 

student through the steering wheel, pedals, and dashboard controls that replicate 

the experience of driving the actual selected vehicle through a virtual environment. 

The USMC–ODS trainers are used by all 

Marine organizations (operating forces 

and Marine reserves) for sustainment and 

refresher training. These systems augment 

actual road hours and provide Marines the 

opportunity to experience various driving scenarios and reaction skills in a controlled environment. The incorporation of 

the MTVR MAS, Up-Armored HMMWV, 

and MRAP CAT I and III support the Universal Needs Statement (UNS) dated November 2002 and Statement of Need dated 

May 2007 to provide trainees with realistic 

experience operating the tactical-wheeled 

vehicles during both on- and off-road 

conditions in a variety of scenario-based 

environments. USMC–ODS systems are 

fielded at Camp LeJeune, Camp Pendleton, 

Mojave Viper 29 Palms, and select MFR

sites. Other sites scheduled to be fielded in 

FY 2009 include MCB, Kaneohe Bay, Okinawa, Iwakuni, and multiple MFR sites.

The Hmmwv Egress Assistance 

Trainer (HEAT) provides Marines the opportunity to experience vehicle roll-over 

conditions and rehearse and physically 

execute the steps necessary to survive a 

vehicle roll-over. Conducting this training 

under controlled conditions afford Marines the opportunity to gain experience 

of proper egress procedures, while reinforcing the importance of proper seatbelt/

harness utilization, developing awareness 

of the necessary individual and crew skills 

needed to execute roll-over procedures 

and training tactical perimeter security 

drills. HEAT trainers support the Central 

Command (CENTCOM) requirement for 

all Marines to complete vehicle roll-over 

training prior to deploying to designated 

combat zones. HEAT devices are currently 

fielded at Camp LeJeune, Camp Pendleton, 

Mojave Viper 29 Palms, Kaneohe Bay and 

Okinawa. Scheduled fieldings in FY 2009 

include Beaufort, Cherry Point, New River, 

Camp Upshur, Yuma, Miramar, Iwakuni, 

Camp Pendleton and Camp LeJeune.

The Modular Amphibious Egress 

Trainer (MAET) is an underwater escape 

trainer with a generic fuselage section 

with modules and exits representing specific aircraft, cockpit and cabins for select 

amphibious vehicle platforms. This commercial off-the-shelf trainer is designed to 

simulate underwater disorientation caused 

by rapidly sinking aircraft and other waterborne vehicles. The trainer is modular in 

that it can be quickly reconfigured to simulate the exits and hatches of various craft 

(e.g., the CH-46, CH-53, AAV, EFV, LAV25 and MV-22 aircraft). A second module, the Submerged Vehicle Egress Trainer 

(SVET), which was defined by a Statement 

of Need submitted by TECOM, is used 

to train egress from rollover/submerged 

ground vehicles, replicating the HMMWV and other ground platforms. These 
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training devices support the Underwater 

Egress Training Program conducted at 

Okinawa, Kaneohe Bay, Camp Pendleton 

and Camp LeJeune.

The Supporting Arms Virtual Trainer (SAVT) will provide a high-fidelity visually immersive training capability that will 

train Joint Terminal Attack Controllers 

and Forward Observers in Surface call for 

fires and Type I, II and III Close Air Support Missions. Based on the Marine Corps 

requirement to train more than 500 Joint 

Terminal Attack Controllers, an Urgent 

Universal Need Statement was developed 

and approved, which led to the MROC 

Decision Memorandum approval of SAVT. 

The training system sites will be fielded at 

Camp Pendleton, 29 Palms, Camp LeJeune, Kaneohe Bay, Okinawa and Yuma.
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Description

The Joint Service General Purpose 

Mask (JSGPM) is an Acquisition Category 

(ACAT) III program managed by the Joint 

Project Management Office for Individual 

Protection (JPMO-IP). The JSGPM M50 

(Field) and M51 (Combat Vehicle) mask 

systems are Chemical, Biological and Radiological (CBR) protective masks that

integrate with the Joint Service Lightweight 

Integrated Suit Technology (JSLIST) 

chemical protective ensemble and will replace the M40/M42 series and MCU-2P

protective masks; until FOC is reached, 

the M40/M42 series of masks are suitable 

substitutes. The JSGPM M50 (Field) and 

M51 (Combat Vehicle) mask systems were 

developed to provide respiratory and ocular protection from traditional and nontraditional CBRN agents and select TIMs, 

under battlefield conditions for ground 

and combat vehicle crewman personnel. 

JSGPM provides improved protection, improved field of view, lower breathing resistance, reduced weight/bulk, and improved 

compatibility.

Operational Impact

The warfighter will wear the protective 

mask based on threat, operational requirements and mission profiles. The JSGPM is 

a key component for surviving and sustaining operations in a contaminated environment. The JSGPM Mask Systems will 

be carried it is carrying case by the warfighter in all MOPP levels below 3 and 4. 

The mask will be donned during MOPP

level 3 and 4 events. 

Program Status

Full Rate Production Decision 

October 2007. 

Contract Awarded August 2008

The Joint Program Manager and the 

Marine Corps have procured 72,390 M50s 

and 616 M51s to date.

Developer/Manufacturer: Avon Rubber & 

Plastics, Inc., Cadillac, MI

Joint Service General Purpose Mask M50 and M51
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 Description

The Joint Service Lightweight Integrated Suit Technology (JSLIST) is an Acquisition Category (ACAT) III program 

managed by the Joint Project Management 

Office for Individual Protection (JPMOIP). The Joint Chemical/Biological Coverall for Combat Vehicle Crewmen (JC3) 

will provide the Combat Vehicle Crew 

(CVC) protection against liquid, vapor, 

dusty, particulate or sporulated Chemical 

and Biological Warfare (CBW) agents or 

radiological materials for up to 16 hours. 

The JC3 replaces the JSLIST Type II overgarments for CVC personnel.

Operational Impact

The JC3 is a lightweight Chemical/

Biological warfare agent protective garment for use by CVC in a contaminated environment. The JC3 will provide 

improved protection from CB warfare 

agents, radiological particles, and TIMS to 

personnel who serve as crewmembers on 

armored vehicles. When integrated with 

other personal protective equipment, the 

system will provide the CVC community 

the ability to operate in a contaminated environment. During the MOPP-1 through 

MOPP-3 conditions, the warfighter will 

don the JC3. At MOPP level 4 the CVC 

member will ensure all zippers are zipped, 

all straps are fastened, donning the neck 

dam, roll down and adjust the mask hood 

until either decontaminated or ordered to 

reduce MOPP. 

Program Status

Contract Awarded July 2008

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 5401 2629

Developer/Manufacturer: Group Home 

Foundation, Inc., Belfast, ME

Joint Chemical/Biological Coverall for 

Combat Vehicle Crewmen 
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Description

Joint Effects Model (JEM) Increment 

(Incr) 1 is a digital, computer-based modeling and simulation (M&S) tool approved 

by DoD to provide common representation of Chemical, Biological, Radiological 

and Nuclear (CBRN) hazard areas and effects resulting from CBRN weapons and 

Toxic Industrial Materials (TIM). JEM’s 

M&S prediction capability will support 

consequence management (CM) and 

course of action analysis for CBRN events. 

JEM will support multiple deployment 

strategies and is capable of functioning as 

a stand-alone, networked, or web-based 

application as well as being integrated and 

fully interoperable with the Joint Warning 

and Reporting Network (JWARN) and its 

host command and control systems. JEM 

provides commanders with the capability 

to transmit vital CBRN information to the 

common operational picture (COP) to be 

employed at the strategic, tactical or operational levels.

Operational Impact

JEM will provide Operational Commanders information on possible CBRN

hazards throughout their area of operation (AO). JEM’s primary mission is to 

provide the MAGTF Commander with an 

operational tool whose outputs are used 

to support planning and assessment decisions to mitigate the effects of WMD, to 

include CBRN and TIM agents. JEM will 

assist the MAGTF Commander as a planning and training tool; to develop doctrine 

and tactics; and to be used operationally to 

take immediate actions necessary to protect personnel and equipment from CBRN

and TIM hazards. JEM will also provide 

the MAGTF Commander with a tool capable of conducting modeling of chemical, 

biological, and TIM threats in the AO. 

Program Status

JEM entered into a Limited Deployment Phase on August 2007, when the 

MDA approved MS C. JEM was granted 

Class Accreditation with Limitations. Full 

Rate Production approval was granted 12 

May 2008 for Stand-Alone JEM by the 

MDA. In August 2008, JEM conducted a 

MOT&E2 to evaluate the C4ISR version 

of JEM to support a second FRP.

Procurement Profile: FY2009

Quantity: 1

Developer/Manufacturer: 

Northrop Grumman Spectrum Technology 

Center, San Diego, CA

Joint Effects Model (JEM)
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Description

The Joint Warning And Reporting Network (JWARN) Incr 1 (formerly 

known as JWARN Block II) provides forces with an operational capability to report, 

analyze and disseminate Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) 

agent detection, identification, location 

and warning information. JWARN Incr 1 

consists of a software component, JWARN

Mission Application Software (JMAS), and 

a hardware component, the JWARN Component Interface Device (JCID). The JCID

networks CBRN sensors directly with 

Command, Control, Communications, 

Computers and Intelligence (C4I) systems. 

Only the JMAS component will be fielded 

to Marine Corps users as the JCID does 

not meet Marine Corps requirements. The 

JWARN operates on Service Command, 

Control, Communication, Computers, 

Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) systems/platforms located 

in C2 centers and employed by CBRN

defense specialists and other designated 

personnel.

Operational Impact

The primary mission of JWARN will 

be to provide the MAGTF Commander 

with a system capable of providing a comprehensive analysis and warning capability to access, assimilate and disseminate 

CBRN and Toxic Industrial Materials 

(TIM) information throughout the Common Operating Picture (COP). JWARN

will provide the operational capability to 

collect, analyze, identify, locate, report 

and disseminate information on CBRN

threats. JWARN will automatically predict 

and track the actual movement of CBRN

contamination effects within a multidimensional battle space. Combatant Commanders can use this information to take 

appropriate actions to protect personnel 

and equipment in the hazard area.

Program Status

JWARN Incr 1 entered into a Limited 

Deployment Phase on 28 May 08 when 

the MDA approved MS C. JWARN Incr 

1 MOT&E was conducted in August 2008 

and FRP is planned for FY09.

Procurement Profile: FY2009

Quantity: 1

Developer/Manufacturer: 

Northrop Grumman Spectrum Technology 

Center, San Diego, CA

Joint Warning and Reporting Network (JWARN) 
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Description

The Joint Chemical Agent Detector 

(M4 JCAD) is a portable monitoring and 

point chemical agent detector for individual Marine and small units. It will provide 

commanders with a chemical detector 

that will be employed as part of the overall Chemical, Biological, Radiological and 

Nuclear (CBRN) protection strategy. Per 

the Marine Air-Ground Task Force CBRN

Defense (MAGTF CBRND) Operating 

concept, Level I detectors are fielded in 

large quantities and provide a capability at 

low cost; they are small and light weight, 

enabling them to be worn or carried by 

personnel for long periods of time with 

little or no degrading effect. M4 JCAD

may be employed on platforms or facility-based, whose primary functions are 

to detect, provide warning and confirm a 

chemical attack. All personnel assigned to 

the MAGTF can use these detectors with 

little or no training. M4 JCAD is capable of 

detecting and identifying chemical and select Toxic Industrial Chemical (TIC) vapor 

hazards, allowing Marines to provide information and warning reports to followon forces and commanders. M4 JCAD will 

be employed as part of the overall contamination avoidance effort to support operating forces on the integrated battlefield. The 

M4 JCAD will provide commanders with 

information on chemical vapor hazards at 

specific points in an area of operation. M4 

JCAD will be the Marine Corps’ primary 

point chemical sensor. 

Operational Impact

The M4 JCAD will provide commanders at the small unit level with a detect-towarn/confirm capability that will ensure 

appropriate protective actions are taken. 

M4 JCAD will also alert the commander 

that units have entered a contaminated 

area prior to the onset of incapacitation. 

Small unit leaders will then be able to take 

those actions necessary to protect personnel and equipment from the potential 

damaging effects of chemical agents.

Program Status

Fielding of the M4 JCAD is scheduled to commence during second quarter 

FY 2009. The current Approved Acquisition Objective (AAO) is 11986 detectors. 

Current Concept of Employment (COE) 

states that the M4 JCAD will replace the 

Chemical Agent Monitor (CAM) and Automatic Chemical Agent Detector Alarm 

(ACADA) currently in the inventory. 

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 1000 TBD

Developer/Manufacturer: 

Smiths Detection, 2202 Lakeside 

Boulevard, Edgewood, MD

Joint Chemical Agent Detector (JCAD)
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Description

The Marine Corps has six key thermal 

optics systems: the Thermal Weapon Sight 

II (TWS II), which includes the Medium 

Weapon Thermal Sight (MWTS, AN/PAS13C/D (V)2) and the Heavy Weapon Thermal Sight (HWTS, AN/PAS-13C/D (V)3); 

Individual Weapon Night Sight-Thermal 

(IWNS-T); the Medium-Range Thermal 

Bi-ocular (MRTB); the Long-Range Thermal Imager (LRTI) (AN/PAS-22); and the 

Mini Thermal Imager (MTI).

The TWS II provides capabilities similar to its predecessor AN/PAS-13B (TWS 

I) with technology improvements that reduce weight and provide longer battery life. 

It is a self-contained lightweight, compact, 

durable, battery-operated, infrared imaging sensor used for target acquisition. The 

MWTS and HWTS have the same design, 

but different telescopes and software. Both 

TWS II sights come with a MIL-STD-1913 

rail grabber interface, including a vertical 

spacer. The TWS II will be mounted on the 

M249 in the Infantry Battalions and on all 

crew-served weapons including the M240, 

M2 and Mk19. 

The IWNS-T is an in-line clip-on 

thermal sight designed to operate with 

the Rifle Combat Optic (RCO–AN/PVQ31A/B). It will detect and recognize targets 

and threats at 300 meters without affecting 

the sight picture and battlesight zero of the 

RCO in all lighting conditions, including 

total darkness and atmospheric obscurants 

such as smoke and fog.

The MRTB will provide small unit 

leaders with the ability to detect and recognize potential threats in a limited visibility environment within tactical ranges 

up to 850 meters. The binocular design enhances human performance elements that 

improve operational use.

The LRTI will be employed by Force 

and Division Reconnaissance Units and 

target acquisition units (forward observers, forward air controllers, etc.) providing 

a long-range observation capability, approaching 7,500 meters, and significantly 

increasing the lethality and survivability of 

the warfighter.

The MTI is a stand-alone, portable, 

monocular, hand-held, battery-operated 

thermal imager used to observe, detect, 

and identify targets, conduct surveillance 

and assist commanders in engaging targets during all light conditions. The MTI is 

an observation device and is not mounted to weapons. 358 units were purchased 

in response to an urgent universal needs 

statement.

Operational Impact

New thermal optics systems provide a complementary capability that will 

broaden the range of environments and 

conditions in which Marines are able to 

effectively operate. Because thermal optics 

are not subject to background light “washout,” they are ideal for use in both day and 

night lighting conditions, including total 

darkness. Additionally, thermal optics can 

be used under conditions of limited visibility such as darkness, smoke, fog, dust 

and haze.

Thermal Optic Systems
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Program Status

A total of 16,895 TWS II AN/PAS13C/D systems were procured through 

FY 2008 with manufacturer deliveries 

continuing to FY 2010. Contract award 

for the IWNS-T was 1st quarter FY 2008 

with deliveries planned for FY 2009. The 

MRTB is scheduled for contract award 

and procurement during FY 2009 to support an approximate acquisition objective 

of 5,000 systems. A total of 1,297 LTRIs 

were procured during FYs 2006-2007 

with an additional delivery order of 285 

systems for FY 2009.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

TWS II (AN/PAS-13D) : 4,096 0 

TWS II (AN/PAS-13C) : 3,900 3,769

IWNS-T : 1,282 0 

MRTB : 1,882 2,871

LRTI : 285 0

Developer/Manufacturer: 

AN/PAS-13D TWS II: DRS Technologies, 

Melbourne, FL

AN/PAS-13C TWS II: BAE Systems, 

Lexington, MA

IWNS-T: Insight Technology, 

Londonderry, NH

MRTB: TBD

LRTI: Kollsman Inc, Merrimack, NH

MTI: Insight Technology, Londonderry, NH
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Description

The VENOM is a 40mm, multi-shot, 

electrically-actuated non-lethal munitions grenade launcher mounted on the 

HMMWV MCTAGS turret. The system 

consists of three banks of 10 launch tubes, 

each at fixed angles of 10, 20 and 30 degrees from horizontal achieving 360 degree coverage when traversing the turret.

Operational Impact

When employed, the VENOM provides operating forces the ability to deliver 

a high volume of non-lethal fire at range, 

both day and night, enhancing security 

operations. VENOM will also enable Marines to deter and dissuade errant vehicle 

operators from encroaching into security 

zones by helping determine intent and 

increasing standoff distance.

Program Status

A limited user evaluation with 25 

initial items is scheduled to begin in 2nd 

quarter FY 2009. Under the UUNS, an 

additional 225 systems will complete 

full fielding.

Non-Lethal Tube Launched Munitions System (VENOM)
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231

Description

The Mission Payload Module NonLethal Weapons System (MPM-NLWS) 

program will develop and field a revolutionary vehicle-mounted, tube launched 

munitions delivery system with non-lethal 

payload technologies designed to render 

targeted personnel temporarily incapacitated (defined as: to disable, inhibit, or 

degrade one or more functions or capabilities of a target to render it ineffective) 

within a specified zone of influence. The 

objective of the program is to provide a 

capability to deliver counter-personnel 

non-lethal effects applicable to controlling 

crowds, denying or defending areas, controlling access, and engaging threats while 

providing sufficient standoff for protection 

of friendly forces. The initial increment of 

MPM-NLWS will be mounted onto the 

HMMWV or its replacement.

Operational Impact

The MPM-NLWS will allow the Marine infantryman to efficiently launch 

non-lethal munitions to a broader area 

with a greater duration of effects and volume of fire. Employment of the MPM-NLWS will grant commanders additional options short of lethal force and flexibility in 

implementing Rules of Engagement with 

less-restrictive measures.

Program Status

MPM-NLWS achieved Milestone 

A in 2004. The Capability Development Document was approved November 2007. The technology development 

phase is expected during 1st quarter, 

FY 2010.

Mission Payload Module Non-Lethal 

Weapons System (MPM-NLWS)
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

232

Description

The Escalation of Forces Mission 

Module (EoF-MM) contains equipment 

required to satisfy the operational requirement for an enhanced capability to apply 

non-lethal force. The EoF-MM will consist 

of selected equipment that provides operational capabilities for use during escalation 

of force situations found primarily, but not 

exclusively, when operating under restricted Rules of Engagement. 

The EoF-MM will support the following capabilities: Vehicle Control Point, Entry Control Point, Convoy Security, Crowd 

Control, Detain Personnel, Conduct 

Search, Clear Facilities, Conduct Cordon, 

Urban Patrol and Establish and Secure Perimeter. 

The basic building block of the EoFMM will be the Equipment Set. Each 

Equipment Set will consist of specific 

material and non-material solutions that, 

when used together, enable Marines to adequately and safely complete a select Mission Capability Task. Two or more Equipment Sets combine to form a Capability 

Module that provides the equipment and 

supplies to perform a given task, such as 

Establish and Secure Perimeter or Conduct Cordon. 

Operational Impact

The EoF-MM provides the appropriate weapons and equipment to employ a 

range of non-lethal operations and nonlethal tactics. The fielding of the EoF-MM 

to the operating forces is intended to augment existing lethal capabilities.

Program Status

53 EoF-MM Capability Sets will be 

procured and fielded in a two-tier method. Currently, MCCDC is in the process 

of identifying the items that will compose 

Tier 1 and Tier 2. Once decisions have 

been made, a detailed schedule will be developed on the delivery of the EOF-MM 

and disposal/retrofit of the FPCS.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

EOFMM: TBD TBD

Developer/Manufacturer: 

tbd

Escalation of Forces Mission Modules (EoF-MM)
chapter 3 programs

233

Description

Targeting Systems are being acquired 

to fulfill requirements of the Target Location, Designation and Hand-off System 

(TLDHS) System of Systems and the Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) Suite. They 

provide the target location and designation capabilities necessary for observers 

to be able to control Close Air Support 

and locate targets for all supporting arms. 

Targeting Systems can be broken down to 

the elements of target location (managed 

under the Common Laser Rangefinder 

program) and target designation (managed under the Laser Target Designator 

program).

Common Laser RangeFinder 

(CLRF) Program. Target location capabilities are being provided to the operating forces through the Common Laser 

Rangefinder (CLRF) program, which is 

currently fielding the VECTOR 21B (AN/

PEQ-13) laser rangefinder. The VECTOR

21B is a lightweight, class-1 eye-safe, targeting laser rangefinder capable of being 

carried and employed by a single Marine. 

It assists the operator in determining target location by measuring distance, direction, and vertical angle from the operator 

to the object through the use of digital 

magnetic compass technology. The VECTOR 21B aids target detection, recognition, and identification by providing optics 

similar in magnification and field of view 

to the M-22 binoculars. It interfaces with 

PLGR, DAGR, Target Handoff System, DDACT, and the AN/PVS-14 Night Vision 

Monocular and AN/PAS-22 Long Range 

Thermal Imager (LRTI) for night operations. In 2009-2010, the magnetic azimuth 

capability of the VECTOR 21 will be enhanced by a more accurate, non-magnetic 

True North capability which will greatly 

reduce Target Location Error (TLE).

Laser Target Designator (LTD) 

Program. Target designation capabilities are being provided to the operating 

forces through the Laser Target Designator (LTD) program, which is currently 

fielding the Portable Laser Designator 

Rangefinder (PLDR) AN/PEQ-17 and the 

Thermal Laser Spot Imager (TLSI, AN/

PAS-25). The PLDR employs a class IV 

(not eye-safe) laser to mark or designate 

targets for laser seeking munitions and laser spot trackers. It includes a built-in laser 

spot camera which allows the operator to 

view the reflected laser energy under certain daylight conditions in order to verify 

that the laser is designating (or marking) 

the correct object as a target. The PLDR laser beam is not visible to the naked eye or 

night vision goggles and has a designation 

range of 5,000 meters. TLSI is an additional hardware element of the LTD program 

that extends the ability to view reflected 

PLDR laser energy to all operating conditions (day and night).

Operational Impact

CLRF. The VECTOR 21B provides 

forward observers and forward air controllers a man-portable tool that assists in 

target detection, recognition, identification, and location. It provides target location error of 50m or less at a distance of 

5 Km and 100m at a distance of 10 Km. 

Targeting Systems
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

234

The VECTOR 21B has a 7x internal magnification and an external optical enhancer 

that provides a total magnification of 10x. 

It is fielded with the DAGR which, when 

used with the VECTOR-21B, provides a 

10-digit grid coordinate to the target that 

can be used to create an indirect fire mission. It is also fielded with the AN/PVS-14 

monocular night vision sight, which allows 

for low-light and nighttime operation. The 

VECTOR 21B can be integrated with the 

AN/PAS-22 (LRTI) for greater low or no 

light performance. Potential future upgrades include the ability to determine azimuth to target via non-magnetic means.

LTD. The PLDR provides the operating forces with a capability to designate 

targets for both laser spot trackers and 

laser-seeking precision guided munitions 

in support of Joint Terminal Air Controllers, Reconnaissance and ANGLICO Marines. PLDR is man-portable, and weighs 

less than previously fielded laser designators. Power supply options recently made 

available to the user through the LTD program provide significant opportunities to 

further reduce combat load depending on 

mission profile. Potential future upgrades 

include further weight reduction.

Program Status

The VECTOR 21B is currently in 

the production and deployment life cycle 

phase. Initial Operating Capability occurred in May 2005 with fielding to units 

in Iraq and Afghanistan. Approximately 

75 percent of the CLRF Approved Acquisition Objective has been fielded.

The PLDR began fielding in January 2008 and will continue into 2010. 

The approved acquisition objective is 531 

systems. 

The TLSI is anticipated to begin fielding late in FY 2008.

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

VECTOR 21B: 0 0

PLDR: 184 232

TLSI: 498 0

Vector 21B Developer/Manufacturer: 

Vectronix, Switzerland

Vector 21B Importer: Ashbury International 

Group, Charlottesville, VA

PLDR Developer/Manufacturer: 

Kollsman, Inc., NH

TLSI Developer/Manufacturer: 

Kollsman, Inc., NH 
chapter 3 programs

235

Description

Ground-Based Air Defense Transformation (GBAD-T) is the Marine Corps air 

defense capability that focuses on defeating airborne threats with the Advanced 

Man-Portable Air Defense System (AMANPADS) and the Stinger missile. This 

system replaced Avenger as the Marine 

Corps’ only organic air defense system.

Operational Impact

Using A-MANPADS and the Stinger 

missile, the Low Altitude Air Defense Battalions (LAAD Bn) provides the MAGTF 

low altitude air defense against enemy air 

threats. The LAAD Bns have an assigned a 

secondary mission to provide a ground security force in defense of MAGTF air sites 

when not engaged in their primary air defense mission. The A-MANPADS vehicles 

mount M-2, M240B or Mark 19 machine 

guns when assigned their secondary mission. A-MANPADS is rapidly deployable 

via air, land or sea. LAAD Bn units deploy 

with MEU’s as part of the Marine Air Control Group detachment to the composite 

squadron.

Program Status

A-MANPADS was designated an 

AAP in 2005. New requirements (AMANPADS Increment 1) were outlined 

in Statement of Need delivered to the 

Program Office during 2nd Qtr FY 2007. 

The GBAD-T Program is in Core in POM 

2010 and encompasses A-MANPADS and 

A-MANPADS Increment I. A-MANPADS 

Increment I is scheduled for a Milestone C 

Decision 3rd Qtr FY 2010. Additionally, 

the LAAD units have submitted a Universal Need Statement to replace the Stinger 

missile. 

Procurement Profile: FY2009 FY2010

Quantity: 

Section Leader Vehicle 0 12

Fire Units 0 47

Developer/Manufacturer: 

Naval Surface Weapons Center, Crane; 

Crane, IN

Ground-Based Air Defense Transformation (GBAD-T)
chapter 4
chapter 4 Current operations

237

Current Operations

During 2008, Marine Corps forces deployed world-wide to meet the demands of 

the Global War on Terror (GWOT) and protect vital U.S. interests, citizens and friends. 

Thousands of Marines continued the fight against determined enemies in Iraq and 

Afghanistan, while many more supported civil-military, humanitarian assistance and 

disaster-relief operations wherever the need arose. From small-scale advisory missions 

to full-spectrum combat operations, the Marines maintain a persistent presence at the 

forefront of the fight for democracy, peace and stability.

Figure 4-1 demonstrates the historic nature of the Marine Air Ground Task Force 

(MAGTF) in supporting U.S. National Security objectives. During 1990 and 1991 and 

again in 2003 to 2007 Marine combat forces were deployed to support Desert Storm, 

Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. From 1992 to 2002 

Marine units continuously deployed to support humanitarian missions — providing 

much needed assistance in times of crisis involving earthquakes and floods — and 

they assisted in the evacuation of noncombatants. Finally, Marine units were often called upon to provide security deployments to enforce no fly zones, maritime 

interdiction, counter drug and peacekeeping operations. These trends clearly indicate 

the continued relevance of the MAGTF to effectively meet the ever changing demands 

of a dynamic world.
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

238

NORTHCOM

Enduring Operations, Contingencies

n JTF-N

- MWSS-373; Campo, CA. Border 

road repair 

- 2 x Fleet Anti-terrorism and Security 

Team (FAST) platoon provided for 

Refuel/Defuel in Newport News VA

- 4th GSP, San Diego, California; sensor laydown ISO US Border Patrol

- 4th GSP, Blaine, Washington and 

Kalispell, Montana; sensor laydown 

ISO US Border Patrol

- Det, MARFORRES; Intel Missions; 

San Diego, California; Laredo, Texas; 

in support of law enforcement partners

- CSSG-3; Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; Refuel Defuel Mission; 

- 6TH ESB; Laredo, Texas; Engineer 

Roads ISO US Border Patrol.

- 3D MAW (4 x CH-46; 2 x CH-53); 

NAS Lemoore, McClellan Airfield, 

California; California Wildfire 

Support 

- 2D FAST CO; Puget Sound, 

Washington; 3D PLT, Refuel Defuel 

Mission

- HMM-764; Edwards AFB, California; Aviation Recon Mission 

- HMH-772; Miami, Florida; Aviation 

Forward Looking Infrared Mission

- HMM-764; Sequoia National 

Forrest, California; Aviation Recon 

- EOD Team, II MEF; New York, 

New York; Support for UNGA 63.

Exercises / TSC

n Exercise Mojave Viper 1 thru 17 -08. 

1ST BN 9TH MAR; 2D BN 3D MAR; 

2D BN 24TH MAR; 3D BN 4TH MAR; 

2D LAR BN; 3D RECON BN; 3D BN

6TH MAR; 2D BN 2D MAR; 2D BN

7TH MAR, 1ST BN 2D MAR, 1ST

LAR BN, 1ST RECON BN, 1ST BN 3D

MAR, 3D BN 7TH MAR, 2D BN 9TH

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

Frequency

1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

Year

Marine Corps Contingency Deployments 1990 - 2008

Combat

Security

Humanitarian

Figure 4-1

Marine Corps Contingency Deployments 1990 - 2008
chapter 4 Current Operations and Lessons Learned

239

MAR, 2D BN 25TH MAR, 1ST BN

4TH MAR, 3D BN 8TH MAR, participated for OIF FY-08 PTP.

n Exercise Mojave Viper 1-09 (2D BN, 

1ST MAR), 2-09 (1ST BN, 7TH MAR)

n Exercise Mountain Viper. DET from III

MEF conducted Afghanistan Mountain PTP at Hawthorne Army Ammo 

Depot, NV; Bridgeport, California & 

29 Palms, California 

n Exercise Desert Talon, Yuma, AZ. DET

from 1ST MAW conducted convoy 

training from 26 Nov 07 – 5 Jan 08.

n Exercise WTI, Yuma, AZ. DETs from 

1st MAW, 2nd MAW, 3d MAW support Marine Aviation Weapons and 

Tactics Squadron One, from 18 Feb – 5 

May 08.

n Exercise Northern Edge, Elmendorf 

AFB, Alaska; DETs from 1st MAW 

participated in Northern Edge from 

24 Apr – 19 May 08.

n Fleet Week, New York City, New 

York; DETS from II MEF participated 

May 08.

n Exercise Cajun Viper; Fort Polk, Louisiana; DET from 3D MARDIV HQBN

participated in PTP from 21 Jul – 

28 Aug 08.

n Exercise WTI; Yuma, Arizona; DETS 

from 1st MAW participated from 

4 Sep – 31 Oct 08.

SOUTHCOM

Enduring Operations, Contingencies

n 4 x FAST platoons in support of Naval 

Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

n Engineering & Civil Support Humanitarian Assistance Mission; Honduras; 

DETs from 4th CEB, 3rd CAG conducted humanitarian assistance in 

Honduras from 15 Mar – 15 Jun 08. 

n Engineering & Civil Support Humanitarian Assistance Mission; Trinidad - 

Tobago; DETs from 6th CEB, 4th CAG

conducted humanitarian assistance 

in Trinidad - Tobago from 15 Mar – 

15 Jun 08.

Exercises / TSC

n Landing Attack and Subsequent Operations Ashore (LASO), Pucallpa, Peru; 

Colombia; Montevideo, Uruguay. 

n DETs from 2d Recon and MFS; Curacao; Duex Tri-Colores; conducted 

training Nov 08.

n Peace Keeping Operation North; Managua, Nicaragua; DET MFS conducted training Jun 08.

n Combined Operations Seminar; Managua, Nicaragua; Individual Mobilization Augmentees conducted training Sep 08.

n Tactical Vehicle Operations Military 

Transition Team; Covenas, Colombia.

n Marine Corps Martial Arts Program 

MTT; Covenas, Colombia. 

n Partnership of the Americas; Brazil; 

combined training with the Brazilian 

Marines.

n Partnership of the Americas Infantry 

SMEE; Montevideo, Uruguay.

n Continuing Promise Pacific; Guatemala and El Salvador; DETs from 24th 

Marines, HMM-764 from May and 

Jun 08. 

n Foreign Humanitarian Assistance; San 

Salvador, Salvador; DETs from MFS & 

MFR conducted training May-Jun 08.

n Ground Tactics MTT; Iquitos, Peru.

n Cariabe 08, Martinique, DET from 3D
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

240

MARDIV conducted coalition training exercise from Mar 08.

n Tradewinds 08; Dominican Republic; 

DET from MFS conducted combined 

aviation maritime and ground security 

operations field training exercise.

n Marksmanship SMEE; Covenas, 

Colombia. 

n Partnership of Americas 2008; Peru; 

DETs 24th Marines, HMM-764 conducted amphibious-based multi-lateral exercise involving U.S. Marines and 

Partnered Nations from 30 May – 21 

Jun 08. 

n Beyond the Horizons Suriname; Paramaribo, Suriname; DET 3rd CAG

conducted training from 15 May – 30 

Aug. 

n New Horizons; Ayacucho, Peru; MFR

DETs conducted a joint / combined 

exercise to train U.S. Military engineer, 

medical, Combat Service, and Combat 

Service Support units from 15 May – 

30 Aug 08.

n Dutch Bi-lateral Exchange; Aruba, Curacao; 4th MARDIV units conducted 

platoon level tactics training from 28 

Jun – 13 Jul.

n Southern Exchange 08; Bahia Blanca, 

Argentina; DETs from MFS, MFR conducted training Jul 08

n Panamax; Panama, Honduras, El Salvador; DETs from MFS, MFR conducted 

training Aug 08.

n Water Survival SMEE; Covenas, Colombia; DET MCWSS conducted 

training Aug 08.

n Marine Corps Martial Arts Program 

and Swim SMEE; San Juan Del Mar, 

Nicaragua; DET from MCTAG conducted information exchange Oct 08.

EUCOM

Enduring Operations, Contingencies

n 2 x FAST platoons were provided to 

Naval Station, Rota as part of their 

normal rotation.

n Coalition Support for OEF; Budapest, 

Hungary; DET from MFE conducted 

coalition support Oct 08.

n OEF Coalition Support; Siauliai, Lithuania; DET from MFA conducted coalition support Nov 08. 

Exercises / TSC

n West Africa Training Cruise (WATC) 

08 / Africa Partnership Station (APS); 

Tbilisi, Georgia; DETs from HQMC, 

MFE, I MEF, II MEF, III MEF, TECOM, 

MARFORCOM, 4TH LSB, and MCIA

conducted an exercise offering a naval 

persistent presence, demonstrating the 

Global Fleet Station operational concept. Exercise involved multiple host 

African nations as well as Coalition 

partners (France, Great Britain, Spain) 

from Jan 08 – May 08. Key feature was 

a training event with the Armed Forces of Liberia resulting in the delivery 

of HA supplies to schools and clinics 

within Monrovia ISO USAFRICOM’s 

engagement priorities.

n Cold Weather Recon Training; Harstad, 

Norway; DET from 1ST RECON BN

conducted training with the UK Royal 

Marine Brigade RECCE Forces consisting of cold weather environment/
chapter 4 Current Operations and Lessons Learned

241

survival training, long range patrolling, 

vertical assault, avalanche training, air 

operations, and long range communications training from 18 Jan – 24 Feb 

08.

n Mil to Mil Officer / NCO Relationships 

Training; Baku, Azerbaijan; A DET

from MFE conducted training with 

key Azeri personnel. 

n Mil to Mil Air Medical Evacuation; Yerevan, Armenia; DET from MARFORRES trained Armenian MOD, 12TH

PK BN, and medical personnel at the 

tactical level. 

n Logistics and Supply Management 

Mobile Training Team; Dakar, Senegal; 

DET from MARFORRES conducted 

a mil to mil exchange on medical air 

evacuation techniques and procedures 

from 2-8 Feb 08. 

n Nomad Fire; DET from MFE supported POTUS visit to Africa, 16-21 

Feb 08. 

n Mil to Mil Operational Staff Planning; 

Podgorica, Montenegro; DET from 

MFE trained the Armed Forces of 

Montenegro on staff planning procedures and functions. 

n Coalition Deployment Support; Zagreb, Croatia; DET from MFE supported the movement of Croatian 

forces from Zagreb to Afghanistan 

from 11-15 Feb 08. 

n Mil to Mil, Accra, Ghana; DETs from 

MARFORAF and 4TH MLG familiarize Ghanian military NCO’s and junior 

officers with maintenance and maintenance management procedures, 2 – 

7 Mar 08. 

n Exercise Noble Shirley; Israel; DET

from MCSF CO Rota participate in exercise focused on individual and small 

unit shooting and movement TTPs in 

an urban and counter-terrorist environment. DET from MFR conducted 

bilateral EX with the Israeli Defense 

Force focused on individual and small 

unit shooting TTPs in an urban environment May 08. 

n Mil to Mil Brigade and Battalion Sergeant Major Leadership; Tbilisi, Republic of Georgia. 

n Africa Contingency Operations and 

Training Assistance CPX; Accra, Ghana; DETs from MFE, MFR conduct 

training from 25 Mar – 4 Apr 08. 

n Mil to Mil Night Vision Goggles Program; Bizerte, Tunisia; DETS from 

MFE, MFR conducted training from 

29 Mar – 5 Apr 08.

n NCO Leadership & Development 

MTT; Baku, Azerbaijan; DET from 

MFE conducts training from 30 Mar – 

7 Apr 08.

n Mil to Mil Expeditionary Units in 

Multi-National Peacekeeping OPS; 

Baku, Azerbaijan; DET from MFE

conducts training from 31 Mar – 4 Apr 

08.

n Exercise Combined Endeavor; Lager Aulenbach, Germany; DETs from 

MFE and 6TH COMM BN participated in command, control, communications, and computer systems (C4) 

interoperability exercise between US, 

NATO, and Partnership for Peace Nations 2Apr – 15 May 08.
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

242

n Exercise Combined Thunder; Munster, 

Germany; DET from 4TH ANGLICO

conducted Planning, coordination, 

and conduct of terminal control of fires 

ISO Joint and Allied Forces Apr 08.

n Mil to Mil MAGTF Tactical Warfare 

Simulation; Dakar, Senegal; DET from 

MFE conducted training Apr 08.

n Joint Multi-National Readiness Center 

Observer Controller Training; Hohenfels, Germany; DET from MFE conducts training Apr 08. 

n UKRM Bilateral Training; Cape Wrath, 

United Kingdom; DET from 3D ANGLICO conducted Fire Support exchange with the 148 Battery, Royal 

Artillery, 29 Command, focused on 

improving allied / coalition training and liaison capability 15 Apr – 

2 May 08. 

n Mil to Mil Ground Maintenance; Accra, Ghana; DET from MFR conducted 

maintenance training with Ghanaian 

counterparts from 19 Apr – 5 May 08.

n Mil to Mil Public Affairs; Tbilisi, Georgia; DET from TECOM conducted 

training 26 Apr – 3 May 08.

n Exercise Austere Challenge 08; Germany & Italy; DETS from MFE, TECOM, 

II MEF, and MFR participated in a 

JFHQ EX to certify C6F as a JTF, 3AF 

as a JFACC, and V Corps as a JFLCC. 

n Exercise MEDCEUR 08; Split, Croatia; 

DET from 4TH MLG conducted training May 08.

n Mil to Mil Recruiting, Retention, 

MWR Issues; Sofia, Bulgaria; DET

from MCCS Quantico from 5 – 9 May 

08.

n Africa Contingency Operations and 

Training Assistance – Rwanda CPX; 

Gako, Rwanda; DET from TECOM 

participated in a CPX to prepare a Bn 

staff for deployment ISO the United 

Nations Mission in Dafur (UNAMID) 

May 08.

n HMMWV Maintenance Contact Team 

ISO Georgia Sustainment & Stability 

Operations Program II (GSSOP II); 

Tbilisi, Georgia; DET from 4TH MLG

conducted training May 08. 

n Exercise Tartan Eagle 08; United Kingdom; DET from MCSFCO Bangor 

conducted Mil-to-Mil training with 

the Royal Marines Fleet Protection 

Group with a focus on security TTPs 

May 08.

n Mil to Mil Small Arms Maintenance; 

Gabon, Botswana; May 08.

n Engineer Bilateral Training; Kingsbury, 

UK; DET from 6TH ESB conducted 

training May 08.

n ACOTA; Bohicon, Benin; DET from 

TECOM conducted training from 19 

May – 31 Jun 08.

n Exercise African Lion 08; Multiple 

Sites, Morraco; DETS from MFE, MFR

participated in joint and bilateral combined arms training from U.S. and Moroccan forces through a bilateral Command Post Exercise (CPX) in Agadir, 

Field Training Exercise (FTX) in Tan 

Tan, Peace Keeping Operation (PKO) 

in Tifnit, Aviation Training Exercise 

(ATX) in Kenitra, and Humanitarian 

Assistance (HA) in surrounding villages of Guelmin from 22 May – 28 Jun 

08. 
chapter 4 Current Operations and Lessons Learned

243

n Exercise Shared Accord 08; Multiple 

Sites, Morocco; DETs from MFE, MFR

participated in an annual US/West African bi-lateral exercise as well as staff 

development and humanitarian assistance Jun 08.

n Mil to Mil Cameroon; Douala, Cameroon; DET from MFE conducted training Jun 08.

n Personnel Temp Aug Program; Trondhiem, Norway; DET from Blount Island Command Jun 08.

n Mil to Mil Georgia; Tbilisi, Georgia; 

DET from MFE conducted training 

Jun 08. 

n Mil to Mil Bosnia-Herzegovina; Banjaluka, BH; DET from MFE conducted 

training Jun 08. 

n Mil to Mil Small Unit Leadership 

Training; Gaborone, Botswana; DET

from TECOM conducted training Jun 

08.

n Mil to Mil MTT NCO Development; 

Baku, Azerbaijan; DET from MFE

conducted training from 30 Jun – 5 Jul 

08.

n Exercise Immediate Response 08; 

Tbilisi, Georgia; DETs from MFE and 

3D BN, 25TH MAR participated in a 

TSC exercise with Georgian Armed 

forces from 5-31 Jul 08.

n Exercise MEDFLAG 08; Bamako, Mali; 

MFR units conducted training Jul 08. 

n Mil to Mil Logistics Support Traveling 

Contact Team; Baku, Azerbaijan; Jul 

08.

n Mil to Mil Tactical Orders Team; Liimbe, Cameroon; DET from MFR

conducted training Jul 08.

n African Endeavor; Abuja, Nigeria; DET

from MFE conducted training Jul 08. 

n Mil to Mil Logistics Event; DET from 

4TH MLG conducted training from 30 

Jul – 3 Aug 08.

n NLW Event; Constanta, Romania; DET

from MFE conducted training from 31 

Jul -11 Aug 08.

n Mortuary Affairs; Landstuhl, Germany; DET from MFR conducted training from 25 Jul – 25 Sep 08.

n Mil to Mil CAG Event; Monrovia, Liberia; DET from 4TH CAG conducted 

training Aug 08.

n Mil to Mil Sgt & Sgt Maj Duties Event; 

Baku, Azerbaijan; DET from MFE

conducted training Aug 08.

n OEF Coalition Support; Zagreb, Croatia; DET from MFR provided coalition 

deployment support Aug 08.

n NLW MTT ISO JTF-EAST; Sliven; 

Bulgaria; DET from MFE conducted 

training 25 Aug – 15 Sep 08. 

n ACOTA CPX; Gako, Rwanda; DETs 

from NPS and MCTAG conducted 

training 25 Aug – 5 Sep 08.

n ACOTA CPX; Bujumbura, Burundi; 

DET from MCTAG conducted training Aug 08.

n Mil to Mil Recon Event; Sarajevo, 

Bosnia-Herzegovina; DET from MFR

conducted training 30 Aug – 6 Sep 08. 

n Mil to Mil Provost Marshal & MP

Training; Yerevan, Armenia; DET from 

MCTAG conducted training Sep 08.

n NATO Exercise Steadfast Indicator 

08; Pitesti, Romania; DETs from MFE, 

MFR conducted training Sep 08. 

n Georgian Armed Forces Assessment 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

244

Team; Amemb, Georgia; DET from 

MFE conduct training 14 Sep – TBD.

n Mil to Mil Intel Event; Freetown, Sierra Leone; DET from MFA conducted 

training Sep 08.

n Mil to Mil NCO Roles & Responsibilities; Limbe, Cameroon; DET, MFR

conducted training Sep 08. 

n Mil to Mil Engineer Assessment; Monrovia, Liberia; DET from MFE conducted training Sep 08.

n Mil to Mil NCO Training; Baku, Azerbaijan; DET from MFE conduct training Sep 08. 

n Mil to Mil Supply and Ordenance; 

Chisinau, Moldova; DET from MFE

conducted training Sep 08.

n Maritime Prepositioning Force Training Event; Rota, Spain; DET from 

MFE conducted training from 29 Sep 

- 3 Oct 08.

n Exercise Joint Warrior; Cape Wrath, 

Scotland; DET from II MEF conducted training Oct 08.

n Flintlock 09; Rota, Spain; DET from 

MFA conducted training from 30 Oct 

– 20 Nov 08.

n Strategic Mobility Event; Tronheim, 

Norway; DETs from MFE, MWHS-2, 

MALS-14 conducted training Nov 08.

n Mil to Mil Coalition Interoperability 

Training; Baku, Azerbaijan; DET from 

TECOM conducted training Nov 08.

n Mil to Mil Anti-Terrorism Training; 

Podgorica, Montenegro; DET from 

MFE conducted training Nov 08. 

AFRICOM

Enduring Operations, Contingencies

n CJTF-HOA Provisional Security; 

Camp Lemonier, Djibouti; 3D LAAD

filling requirement as the 7TH PSC.

n CJTF-HOA Provisional Security; 

Camp Lemonier, Djibouti; 6TH ESB 

filling requirement as the 8TH PSC. 

Exercises / TSC

n ACOTA CPX, Accra, Ghana; DET from 

MCTAG conducted training from 

15 Sep – 3 Oct 08. 

n Mil to Mil Aerial Refueling; Kenitra, 

Morroco; DET VMGR-234 participated Oct 08.

n Mil to Mil Intel Exchange; Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso; DET MARFORAF 

participated in Intel Exchange Oct 08.

n African Contingency Operations and 

Training Assistance (ACOTA) CPX/

CAX; Thies, Senegal; DET from MARFORAF participated Oct 08.

n ACOTA CPX; Bembereke, Benin; 

DET from MCTAG participated from 

27 Oct – 7 Nov 08.

PACOM

Enduring Operations, Contingencies

n OEF-P (Philippines). USMC provided 

a security team in support of JSOTF-P. 

3RD RADBN provided a Detachment, 

conducting their institutional mission, 

in support of JSOTF-P

n 2 x FAST platoons deployed as part 

of their normal rotation to Yokuska, 
chapter 4 Current Operations and Lessons Learned

245

Japan. 

n VMFA-232 conducted TACAIR Integration aboard USS Nimitz from Feb 

– May 08.

n JTF Caring Response; Thailand; DET

III MEF and 31st MEU conducted 

HA/DR from Apr – May 08.

n RF-DF Mission; Pearl Harbor, Hawaii; 

DET CSSG-3 from 30 May – 18 Jul 08.

Exercises / TSC

n Korean Incremental Training Program 

08-02; Pohang/Chihae, Korea; DETs 

from 9TH ESB and 3D MLG conducted bi-lateral engineer training from 23 

Jan – 29 Feb 08.

n Korean Winter Surge; Camp Humphreys, Korea; DETs from III MHG

provided support to the 501ST Military Intelligence Brigade from 4 Jan – 

23 Feb 08. 

n Exercise Cope Tiger; Khorat, Thailand; 

DETs from VMFA-212 and VMGR234 conduct bi-lateral training from 

27 Jan – 5 Feb 08. 

n Exercise Key Resolve; Korea; DETs 

from III MEF participated in exercises 

planning required to defend the Republic of Korea (ROK) from 12 Feb – 

31 Mar 08.

n Freedom Banner 08-1; Korea, DETs 

from 3D MLG, 1ST CEB, 1ST MAW 

rehearse MARFORPAC capability to 

conduct MPF (USNS Lummus) arrival/assembly and throughput operations; ROK Marine Corps and I MEF 

conduct bilateral live fire field training 

exercise (FTX), supported by fixed and 

rotary wing close air support (CAS) 

from 29 Feb – 9 Mar 08. 

n Exercise Foal Eagle 08; South Korea; 

DETs from 3D AA BN, 7TH MAR

conducted a series of CFC/USFK component combined/joint field training 

exercises conducted throughout the 

ROK by CFC components and major 

subordinate commands. 

n Exercise Balikitan; Philippines; DETs 

from III MHG, 3D MLG, 1ST MAW, 

SOTG, and the 31ST MEU conducted 

annual bilateral US/Republic of Philippines exercise that fosters interoperability and enhances the Armed Forces 

of the Philippines counter-terrorism 

capabilities. 

n Mongolia Leadership Development 

SMEE 08-1; Mongolia; DET from 

MARFORPAC conducted continued 

NCO and junior officer development 

effort targeted at Peacekeeping Battalions. 

n Exercise Forest Light; Yausubetsu, Japan; DET from CAB conduct bilateral 

interoperability training 25 Feb – 13 

Mar 08.

n Exercise Lava Viper; PTA, Hawaii, DET

from 12TH MAR conduct unit level 

training from 22 Feb – 24 Mar 08.

n Bangladesh Interoperability Program 

(BIP) Engineering Civic Action Program (ENCAP) 08-1; Bangladesh; 

DET from 3D MLG conducted engineering mission Mar 08.

n Sandfisher; Singapore; DET from 3D

RECON BN conducted dive operations with the Singapore Navy from 

Mar – Apr 08.

n Mongolia Leadership Development 

Subject Matter Expert Exchange; Mongolia; DET from MFP conducted information/training exchange from 25 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

246

Jan – 1 May.

n Cobra Gold; Thailand; DETs from 

MFP and III MEF conducted Annual 

Theater Security Cooperation Plan 

(TSCP) from 8 Apr – 5 Jun 08.

n HMMWV SMEE; Philippines; 31st MEU 

conducted training exchange Apr 08.

n Freedom Banner 08-2; Thailand, DETs 

from 3D MLG conduct FB 08 to rehearse MARFORPAC capability to 

conduct MPF (USNS Lummus) arrival/assembly and throughput operations; ROK Marine Corps and I MEF 

conduct bilateral live fire field training 

exercise (FTX), supported by fixed and 

rotary wing close air support (CAS) 

from 18 Apr – 5 May 08.

n Civil Affairs Project; Battleay Meanchey; 

Cambodia; DET from 3d MLG Conduct humanitarian and civic activities 

(MEDCAP/DENCAP) in Cambodia . 

n Mongolia Leadership SMEE 08-1; 

Mongolia; DETs MFP conducted NCO

and junior officer development effort 

targeted at the 330th Peacekeeping 

Battalion from 1 May – 28 Jul 08.

n Exercise Ardent Blitz; Korea; DET 5th 

ANGLICO May 08.

n Artillery Subject Matter Expert Exchange; Philippines; DETs from 3/12, 

BLT 2/4, 31st MEU conducted training 

May 08.

n Exercise Carat; PACOM AOR; DET

from 3d Marines conduct Annual Theater training May-Aug 08.

n Exercise Pacific Partnership; PAC AOR; 

DETs 3d MLG; from 21 May–30 Sep 

08.

n Thailand Peace Support Operations 

SMEE; Thailand; DET 3d Marines 

conduct Peace support operations with 

Royal Thai Armed Forces from 23 May 

– 21 Jun 08.

n Exercise Pitch Black; Tinalab, Australia; DETs from 1st MAW Bi-lateral Offensive Counter Air training with the 

Royal Australia Air Force from 28 May 

– 14 Jul 08.

n Exercise Commando Sling; Singapore; 

DET MAG-12 conducted coalition 

training with the Singapore Air Force 

from 20 Jun – 14 Jul 08.

n Exercise Air Warrior; Malaysia; DET

VMFA(AW)-533 conducted training 

with the Royal Malaysian Air Force 

from 20 Jun – 16 Jul 08.

n Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC 

08); Hawaii; DETs 3d Marines, 3d 

Amphious Assault Battalion; VMFA

(AW)-225 from 29 Jun – 31 Jul 08.

n Guam Liberation Day; Guam; DETs 

MFP Jul 08.

n PI MAGTF Tactical Warfare Simulator; 

Philippines; DET 4th Marines from 20 

Jul – 4 Aug 08.

n Exercise Southern Frontier; Australia; 

DETs from 1st MAW conducted training with the Australian Air Force from 

14 Jul -9 Aug 08.

n Exercise NIRVIK TRATA; Bangladesh; 

DET 3d MLG Aug 08.

n Exercise ULCHI Freedom Guardian; 

Korea; III MHG from 4 Aug–4 Sep 08.

n Bangladesh Interoperability Program 

(BIP) MEDCAP/DENCAP; Bangladesh; DET from 3D MLG conducted 

medical and dental mission Aug 08.

n Korean Incremental Training Program 

08-02; Pohang/Chihae, Korea; DETs 

from 3D MLG conducted bi-lateral 

engineer training 23 Aug – 2 Oct 08.

n Exercise Southern Canopy; Philippines; 
chapter 4 Current Operations and Lessons Learned

247

DETs 3d Recon and 3d MLG from 

25 Aug – 30 Sep 08.

n Exercise Talon Vision; Philippines; 

DET III MEF trains from 30 Sep – 31 

Oct 08.

n Exercise Aces North; Australia; DET

MWSS-171 from 30 Oct – 30 Nov 08.

n Exercise Korean Incremental Training Program 08-02; Republic of Korea; 

31st MEU conducted bi-lateral engineer training Nov 08.

CENTCOM

Enduring Operations, Contingencies

n Iraqi Security Force (ISF) Transition 

Teams consisted of:

- 20 Military Transition Teams (MiTT’s)

- 10 Border Transition Teams (BTT’s)

- 15 Provincial Police Transition 

Team (PTT’s)

- 1 Provincial Joint Coordination 

Transition Team (PJCCTT)

n Afghanistan Embedded Training 

Teams (ETTs) consisted of:

- 1 Corps Embedded Training Team

- 6 Battalion Embedded Training 

Teams

n 1 x FAST platoon; Bahrain; May – 

Dec 08 

n 1 x FAST platoon; Bahrain; Jun 08 –

Jan 09 

n Marine Electronic Attack Squadron 

(VMAQ-4) Jan - Jul 08

n Marine Electronic Attack Squadron 

(VMAQ-3) Apr - Oct 08

n MSF-Ashraf, Camp Ashraf, Iraq Apr – 

Mar 08. [Task Force NCR moved from 

Ashraf to Ramadi on 2 Mar 08]

n MSF-Baghdad, Iraq, 1F5, Mar–Sep 08.

n 2D BN, 7TH MAR conducted combat 

operations in Afghanistan from Apr – 

Nov 08.

n 24TH MEU conducted combat operations in Afghanistan from Mar –

Oct 08.

MARINE EXPEDITIONARY UNITS

n 11TH MEU [BLT 1/5, HMM-166 

(REIN), CLB-11] deployed from 8 Nov 

07 – 2 Jun 08.

n 15TH MEU [BLT 2/5, HMM-165 

(REIN), CLB-15] deployed from 31 

May – 3 Nov 08.

n 22D MEU [BLT 3/8, HMM-261 

(REIN), CLB-22] deployed from 2 Aug 

07 – 29 Jan 07.

n 24TH MEU [BLT 1/6, HMM365(REIN), CLB-24] deployed to Afghanistan from 12 Mar – Nov 08.

n 26TH MEU [BLT 2/6, HMM-264 

(REIN), CLB-26] deployed from 29 

Aug 08 – 30 Mar 09.

n 31ST MEU [BLT 2/4, HMM-265 

(REIN), CLB-31] deployed from 7 Jan 

– 7 Jul 08. 

n 31ST MEU [BLT 3/1, HMM-262 

(REIN), CLB-31] deployed from 7 Jul 

08 – 7 Jan 09. 

Exercises / Theater Security 

Cooperation (TSC)

n Exercise Balikitan; Philippines; 31ST

MEU participated from 18 Feb – 

3 Mar 08.

n Mil to Mil; Surabaya, Indonesia; 31ST

MEU participated Mar 08.

n TSC; Timor Leste; 31ST MEU partici-
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

248

pated Apr 08.

n Exercise Cobra Gold; Thailand; 31ST

MEU participated May 08.

n Exercise Native Fury; Jordan; 13TH

MEU participated Jul 08.

n Exercise Eager Mace; Kuwait; 15TH

MEU participated Jul 08.

n Exercise Infinite Moonlight; Jordan; 

15TH MEU participated Aug 08.

n Annual Ex; Japan; 31ST MEU participated Aug 08. 

n PHIBLEX; Philippines; 31ST MEU 

participated Oct 08.

n Exercise Red Reef; Saudi Arabia; 26TH

MEU participated Oct 08.

n Korea Incremental Training Program; Korea; 31ST MEU participated 

Nov 08.

n Exercise Forest Light 09-1; Japan; 31ST

MEU participated Nov 08.

MARSOC

n 3 x MSOC CO; Afghanistan 

n 3 x MSOT; Nouakchott and Nema, 

Mauritania 

n MSOT 11; Yemen; 18 Jan – 7 Mar 08. 

n MSOT 8; Santo Domingo, Dominican 

Republic; 8 Feb -31 May 08.

n MSOT 10; Kulim, Malaysia; 22 Feb – 

25 May 08.

n MSOT 12; Bishkek, Krygyzstan; 23 

Mar – 4 Jul 08.

n CJSOTF-A IA; Afghanistan; 19 Jun – 

1 Oct 08.

n MSOT 10; Udon Thani, Thailand; 

23 Jun – 23 Sep 08.

n MSOT 9; Nairobi, Kenya; 14 Jul – 

26 Sep 08. 

n MSOT 18; Jolo Island, Philippines; 

14 Jul – 15 Aug 08.

n MSOT 12; Tajikistan; 18 Jul–29 Aug 

08.

n MSOT 14; Bogota, Colombia; 21 Aug 

– 19 Sep 08.
Selected Marine Corps Deployments 2008

EX FLINTLOCK 09

ROTA, SPAIN

AFGHANISTAN

SPMAGTF-A

ETTS

MSOC

31st MEU

ENR HONG KONG

OEF–P

PHILLIPINES

OIF: I MEF (FWD)

MNF–W

SEC FOR & HMH DET

CJTF–HORN OF AFRICA

DJIBOUTI ACOTA CPX

NGAOUNDERE, CAMEROON

INTEL TRAINING

BAMAKO, MALI

FAST PLATOONS

USEUCOM

USCENTCOM

USPACOM

USSOUTHCOM

MSOTS

USCENTCOM

USSOUTHCOM

Selected 2008 Marine Corps Exercises / Operations

JTF-N INTEL MISSION

SAN DIEGO, CA & LAREDO, TX

MOJAVE VIPER

TWENTY NINE PALMS, CA

CONTINUING PROMISE

USS KEARSARGE (LHD-3)

MARKSMANSHIP MTT

NICARAGUA

EX DEUX TRI-COLORES

CURACAO

OPERATIONAL NAVAL COMMITTEE

ARGENTINA

LASO

PANAMA

RF/DF

NORFOLK, VA

26TH MEU

ARABIAN GULF

EX ACES NORTH

TINDAL, AUSTRALIA
Early 2009 Marine Corps Deployments

Japan• 3rd Battalion, 1st Marines• Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadrons 462 & 463• Kilo Battery, 3/12• Marine Attack Squadron 513

Arabian Sea11th Marine Expeditionary Unitsails with theTarawa Expeditionary Strike Group

PanamaMarine Corps Training andAdvisory Group supportsSouthern Partnership Station

Afghanistan• 

 Command, 3rd Marine Division•  Special Operations Battalion• Elements of 3rd Marines• 3rd Battalion, 8th Marines

• Combat Logistics Battalion 3• Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 466• Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 269

DjiboutiCombined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa• Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 461• 9th Provisional Security Team

Aviation Combat Element• Marine Aircraft Group 16• Elements of Marine Aviation Logistics Squadrons 11, 26, 31, & 39• Marine Air Control Group 38• Elements of Marine Air Control Groups 28• Elements of Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron 3• Marine Wing Support Group 37• Marine Wing Support Squadron 275• Elements of Marine Wing  Support Squadron 274• Elements of Marine Transport Squadron 1

IraqCommand Element• I MEF Forward Command Element• I MEF Headquarters Group• Elements of 3rd Intel• Elements of 1st Radio Battalion• Elements of 1st & 3rd Air Naval Gunfire Liason Company• Elements of Intel Suppport Battalion, Marine Corps ReserveGround Combat Element• 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines• 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines• 1st Battalion, 4th Marines

• 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines• 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines• 2nd Battalion, 25th Marines• 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines• 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines• Elements of 6th, 10th,  & 11th Marines• Elements of 1st, 2nd & 4th Combat Engineer Battalion• Elements of 2nd & 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion• 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion• Elements of 4th LAR• Elements of 4th Tanks

• Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 161• Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 162• Elements of Marine Aviation Support Squadron 3Logistics Combat Element

• 1st Marine Logistics Group• Elements of 2nd & 3rd Marine Logistics Groups

Early 2009 Marine Corps Deployments
chapter 4 Current Operations and Lessons Learned

251
chapter 5
chapter 5 marine corps almanac

253

Marine Corps Almanac

This chapter provides a brief snapshot of the Marine Corps today. It includes a brief 

description of our Marines’ demographics, our fiscal posture, and the age of some key 

equipment. As such it gives some insight into the resources that we fuse together to 

create one of the world’s premier fighting forces.
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

254

 NROTC 210

 Platoon Leaders Course 591

 Officer Candidate Course 616

MECEP 57

Warrant Officer Program 238

 Other 495

Total 2,207 

Type Number

Officer Accessions in Fiscal Year 2008

Officer Age Distribution

<22 30 0.1%

22 458 2.3%

23 947 4.7%

24 1,016 5.0%

25 1,067 5.3%

26 1,029 5.1%

27 1,047 5.2%

28 979 4.8%

29 946 4.7%

30 883 4.4%

31-35 4,210 20.9%

36-40 4,289 21.2%

41+ 3,287 16.3%

 Total 20,188 100.00%

Age Number Percent
chapter 5 marine corps almanac

255

Officer Grade Distribution

WO/CWO 1,908 9.5%

2ndLt 3,300 16.3%

1stLt 2,854 14.1%

Capt 5,777 28.6%

Maj 3,708 18.4%

 LtCol 1,861 9.2%

Col 691 3.4%

 Gen 89 0.4%

Total 20,188 100.0%

Rank Number Percent
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

256

Officer Occupational Field Distribution

Primary Female Male Total

MOS Code Description Officer Officer Officer

01 Personnel & Admin 173 530 703

02 Intelligence 57 1,148 1,205

03 Infantry 0 2,293 2,293

04 Logistics 164 1,350 1,514

06 Communications 83 1,078 1,161

08 Field Artillery 0 855 855

09 Training 0 32 32

11 Utilities 2 40 42

13 Engineer 43 545 588

18 Tank & AAV 0 310 310

21 Ordnance 1 133 134

23 Ammunition & EOD 2 113 115

26 SIGINT 1 32 33

28 Grd. Electronics Maint. 4 99 103

30 Supply Admin. & Ops. 78 596 674

31 Traffic Mgt. 4 22 26

33 Food Service 2 36 38

34 Financial Mgt. 38 297 335

35 Motor Transport 2 93 95

41 Marine Corps Community Services 4 8 12

43 Public Affairs 32 104 136

44 Legal Services 61 425 486

46 Combat Camera 3 15 18

48 Recruiting 0 16 16

55 Music 1 20 21

57 NBC 0 118 118

58 MP & Corrections 16 214 230

59 Electronics Maint. 2 73 75

60 Aircraft Maint. 18 387 405

63 Avionics (OMA) 2 124 126

65 Aviation Ordnance 2 85 87

66 Aviation Logistics 26 221 247

68 METOC Services 1 28 29

70 Airfield Services 2 35 37

72 Air C2 44 520 564

73 Navigation Officer 0 14 14

75 Pilot/NFOs 169 5,396 5,565

80 Miscellaneous Requirements 134 1,612 1,746

Total 1,171 19,017 20,188
chapter 5 marine corps almanac

257

Officer Gender Distribution

Number Percent

 1,171 5.8%

 19,017 94.2%

 Total 20,188 100.0%

Female

Male

Officer Grade by Gender

Rank # Male % Male # Female % Female Total

WO1 206 1.1% 6 0.5% 212

CWO2 749 3.9% 49 4.2% 798

CWO3 502 2.6% 35 3.0% 537

CWO4 258 1.4% 12 1.0% 270

CWO5 88 0.5% 3 0.3% 91

2ndLt 3,040 16.0% 260 22.2% 3,300

1stLt 2,635 13.9% 219 18.7% 2,854

Capt 5,390 28.3% 387 33.0% 5,777

Maj 3,568 18.8% 140 12.0% 3,708

 LtCol 1,824 9.6% 37 3.2% 1,861

Col 671 3.5% 20 1.7% 691

 Gen 86 0.5% 3 0.3% 89

 19,017 1,171 20,188

Civilian Military Guard/Reserve Children/

Spouses Spouses Spouses Other Deps

12,833 794 55 22,293

Officer Marine Families
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

258

Officer Racial and Gender Distribution

Black Black Hispanic Hispanic White White Other Other

Rank Female Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Total

W

O/CWO 25 248 20 173 55 1,269 5 113 1,908 

2ndLt 14 100 21 160 201 2,470 24 310 3,300 1stLt 12 113 22 169 171 2,181 14 172 2,854 Capt 37 297 40 365 273 4,355 37 373 5,777 Maj 10 261 11 199 106 2,890 13 218 3,708 LtCol 4 84 0 57 29 1,596 4 87 1,861 Col 1 21 0 16 17 613 2 21 691 Gen 0 6 1 2 2 78 0 0 89 Total 103 1,130 115 1,141 854 15,452 99 1,294 20,188 
chapter 5 marine corps almanac

259

37,991

4235

 Total 42,226

Active accessions

Reserve accessions

Enlisted Accessions

Enlisted Age Distribution

17 486 0.3%

18 10,965 6.1%

19 18,530 10.4%

20 21,230 11.9%

21 22,329 12.5%

22 20,521 11.5%

23 15,791 8.9%

24 11,582 6.5%

25 9,125 5.1%

26 - 30 25,293 14.2%

31 - 35 12,032 6.7%

36 - 40 7,162 4.0%

41+ 3,271 1.8%

 Total 178,317 100.0%

Age Number Percent
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

260

Rank Number Percent

 Pvt 16,775 9.4%

 PFC 24,397 13.7%

 LCpl 43,345 24.3%

Cpl 36,317 20.4%

Sgt 28,513 16.0%

SSgt 15,201 8.5%

 GySgt 8,234 4.6%

1stSgt/MSgt 3,927 2.2%

SgtMaj/MGySgt 1,608 0.9%

Total 178,317 100.0%

Enlisted Grade Distribution
chapter 5 marine corps almanac

261

Primary Female Male

MOS Code Description Enlisted Enlisted Total

01 Personnel & Admin 1,761 6,876 8,637

02 Intelligence 268 2,432 2,700

03 Infantry 0 36,236 36,236

04 Logistics 457 3,628 4,085

05 MAGTF Plans 27 318 345

06 Communications 1,092 12,604 13,696

08 Field Artillery 0 4,511 4,511

11 Utilities 246 2,696 2,942

13 Engineer 221 8,082 8,303

18 Tank & AAV 0 2,814 2,814

21 Ordnance 64 4,459 4,523

23 Ammunition & EOD 194 1,954 2,148

26 SIGINT 264 2,288 2,552

28 Grd. Electonics Maint. 98 4,151 4,249

30 Supply Admin & Ops 1,375 5,987 7,362

31 Traffic Mgt. 132 536 668

33 Food Service 348 2,174 2,522

34 Financial Mgt. 212 1,170 1,382

35 Motor Transport 562 13,680 14,242

41 Marine Corps Community Service 13 126 139

43 Public Affairs 119 380 499

44 Legal Services 123 451 574

46 Visual Information (Combat Camera) 104 424 528

55 Music 164 846 1,010

57 NBC 69 956 1,025

58 MP & Correction 354 4,333 4,687

59 Electronics Maint. 89 1,453 1,542

60 Aircraft Maint. 462 5,530 5,992

61 Aircraft Maint. Helo/Tiltrotor 154 5,659 5,813

62 Aircraft Maint. Fixed wing 93 3,788 3,881

63 Avionics (OMA) 269 3,422 3,691

64 Avionics (IMA) 201 2,480 2,681

65 Aviation Ordnance 173 2,617 2,790

66 Aviation Logistics 416 1,883 2,299

68 METOC Services 19 305 324

70 Airfield Services 225 2,257 2,482

72 Air C2 90 1,786 1,876

73 Enlisted Flight Crew 13 298 311

80 Miscellaneous Requirements 541 9,402 9,943

84 Recruiting 9 559 568

89 Miscellaneous Requirements 99 1,646 1,745

Total 11,120 167,197 178,317

Enlisted Occupational Field Distribution
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

262

Number Percent

11,120 6.2%

167,197 93.8%

Total 178,317 100.0%

Female

Male

Rank # Female % Female # Male % Male Total

Civilian AD Military Guard/Reserve Children/

Spouses Spouses Spouses Other Dependents

 68,698 6,828 366 84,484

 Pvt 833 7.5% 15,942 9.5% 16,775

 PFC 1,515 13.6% 22,882 13.7% 24,397

 LCpl 2,677 24.1% 40,668 24.3% 43,345

Cpl 2,697 24.3% 33,620 20.1% 36,317

Sgt 1,778 16.0% 26,735 16.0% 28,513

SSgt 899 8.1% 14,302 8.6% 15,201

 GySgt 451 4.1% 7,783 4.7% 8,234

1stSgt/MSgt 208 1.9% 3,719 2.2% 3,927

SgtMaj/MGySgt 62 0.6% 1,546 0.9% 1,608

 Total 11,120 167,197 178,317

Enlisted Gender Distribution

Enlisted Grade by Gender

Enlisted Marine Families
chapter 5 marine corps almanac

263

Enlisted Racial and Gender Distribution

Black Black Hispanic Hispanic White White Other Other

Rank Female Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Total

 Pvt 129 1,381 49 958 612 12,804 43 799 16,775 PFC 245 2,056 146 2,085 1,026 17,454 98 1,287 24,397 LCpl 373 2,936 390 4,439 1,674 29,985 240 3,308 43,345

Cpl 332 2,582 497 4,271 1,566 23,375 302 3,392 36,317

Sgt 322 3,254 386 4,281 861 16,647 209 2,553 28,513

SSgt 203 2,448 218 2,525 396 8,248 82 1,081 15,201

 GySgt 141 1,431 80 1,163 190 4,632 40 557 8,234

1stSgt/MSgt 87 845 29 423 80 2,198 12 253 3,927

SgtMaj/M

GySgt 24 466 11 136 24 857 3 87 1,608

Total 1,856 17,399 1,806 20,281 6,429 116,200 1,029 13,317 178,317
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

264

Age Number Percent

22 5 0.31%

23 16 1.00%

24 15 0.93%

25 20 1.25%

26 17 1.06%

27 27 1.68%

28 36 2.24%

29 34 2.12%

30 43 2.68%

31 39 2.43%

32 51 3.18%

33 58 3.61%

34 66 4.11%

35 72 4.49%

36 90 5.61%

37 111 6.92%

38 103 6.42%

39 105 6.54%

40 109 6.79%

41 81 5.05%

42 71 4.42%

43 73 4.55%

44 74 4.61%

45 70 4.36%

46 51 3.18%

47 42 2.62%

48 28 1.74%

49 25 1.56%

50 24 1.50%

51 13 0.81%

52 10 0.62%

53 7 0.44%

54 13 0.81%

55 2 0.12%

56 1 0.06%

57 1 0.06%

58 0 0.00%

59 2 0.12%

Total 1605 100.00%

Selected Marine Corps Reserve Officer Age Distribution
chapter 5 marine corps almanac

265

WO1 9 0.56%

CWO2 97 6.04%

CWO3 52 3.24%

CWO4 28 1.74%

CWO5 7 0.44%

2ndLt 123 7.66%

1stLt 32 1.99%

 Capt 304 18.94%

 Maj 432 26.92%

 LtCol 390 24.30%

Col 131 8.16%

B Gen 0 0.00%

M Gen 0 0.00%

 Total 1,605 100.00%

Rank Number Percent

Selected Marine Corps Reserve Officer Grade Distribution
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

266

Primary Female Male

MOS Code Description Officer Officer Total

01 Personnel & Admin 13 24 37

02 Intelligence 1 86 87

03 Infantry 0 215 215

04 Logistics 16 101 119

05 MAGTF Plans 0 1 1

06 Communications 4 76 80

08 Field Artillery 0 93 93

11 Utilities 0 10 10

13 Engineer 1 80 81

18 Tank & AAV 0 56 56

21 Ordnance 0 8 8

23 Ammunition & EOD 0 5 5

25 Network Mgt. 0 2 2

28 Grd. Electronics Maint. 0 8 8

30 Supply Admin & Ops. 5 44 49

31 Traffic Mgt. 0 1 1

33 Food Service 0 2 2

34 Financial Mgt. 3 11 14

35 Motor Transport 0 15 15

40 Data Systems 0 0 0

43 Public Affairs 0 2 2

44 Legal Services 2 29 31

57 NBC 1 22 23

58 MP and Corrections 2 19 21

59 Electronics Maint. 0 2 2

60 Aircraft Maint. 0 21 21

63 Aircraft Maint. Helo/Tiltrotor 1 4 5

65 Aircraft Maint. Fixed Wing 0 1 1

66 Aviation Logistics 1 11 12

68 METOC SVS 0 1 1

70 Airfield Services 0 2 2

72 Air C2 4 38 42

73 Navigation Officer 0 3 3

75 Pilots/Naval Flight Officers 11 387 398

80 Miscellaneous Requirements 2 158 160

 Total 67 1538 1605

Selected Marine Corps Reserve Officer Occupational Field Distribution
chapter 5 marine corps almanac

267

Age Number Percent

17 1 0.00%

18 430 1.39%

19 1746 5.64%

20 3008 9.72%

21 3492 11.28%

22 3703 11.96%

23 3731 12.05%

24 3659 11.82%

25 2806 9.06%

26 1991 6.43%

27 1373 4.43%

28 990 3.20%

29 698 2.25%

30 503 1.62%

31 411 1.33%

32 383 1.24%

33 283 0.91%

34 232 0.75%

35 183 0.59%

36 158 0.51%

37 173 0.56%

38 178 0.57%

39 130 0.42%

40 123 0.40%

41 103 0.33%

42 91 0.29%

43 67 0.22%

44 71 0.23%

45 69 0.22%

46 31 0.10%

47 33 0.11%

48 32 0.10%

49 22 0.07%

50 13 0.04%

51 14 0.05%

52 9 0.03%

53 7 0.02%

54 2 0.01%

55 4 0.01%

56 1 0.00%

57 3 0.01%

58 2 0.01%

59 0 0.00%

60 1 0.00%

Total 30960 100.00%

Selected Marine Corps Reserve Enlisted Age Distribution
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

268

Rank Number Percent

 Pvt 1486 4.80%

 PFC 3127 10.10%

 LCpl 13712 44.29%

Cpl 6708 21.67%

Sgt 3726 12.03%

SSgt 1171 3.78%

 GySgt 632 2.04%

1stSgt/MSgt 255 0.82%

SgtMaj/MGySgt 143 0.46%

 Total 30,960 100.00%

Selected Marine Corps Reserve Enlisted Grade Distribution
chapter 5 marine corps almanac

269

Selected Marine Corps Reserve Enlisted Occupational Field Distribution

Primary Female Male

MOS Code Description Enlisted Enlisted Total

1 Personnel & Admin 172 639 811

2 Intelligence 17 385 402

3 Infantry 0 7751 7751

4 Logistics 103 954 1057

5 MAGTF Plans 3 40 43

6 Communications 133 2821 2954

8 Field Artillery 0 1089 1089

11 Utilities 66 602 668

13 Engineer 106 2893 2999

18 Tank & AAV 0 650 650

21 Ordnance 12 800 812

23 Ammunition & EOD 31 428 459

26 SIGINT 1 6 7

28 Grd. Electronics Maint. 9 624 633

30 Supply Admin & Ops. 162 933 1095

31 Traffic Mgt. 35 104 139

33 Food Service 44 489 533

34 Financial Mgt. 2 11 13

35 Motor Transport 126 3551 3677

40 Data Systems 0 1 1

43 Public Affairs 2 10 12

44 Legal Services 1 6 7

46 Combat Camera 4 6 10

55 Music 1 1 2

57 NBC 5 169 174

58 MP and Corrections 25 697 722

59 Electronics Maint. 1 95 96

60 Aircraft Maint. 26 240 266

61 Aircraft Maint Helo/Tiltrotor 5 293 298

62 Aircraft Maint. Fixed Wing 3 158 161

63 Avionics (OMA) 10 141 151

64 Avionics (IMA) 5 141 146

65 Aviation Ordnance 5 143 148

66 Aviation Supply 32 169 201

68 METOC Services 7 46 53

70 Airfield Services 23 257 280

72 Air C2 18 163 181

73 Enlisted Flight Crew 0 28 28

80 Miscellaneous Requirements 70 1972 2042

89 Miscellaneous Requirements 4 183 190

99 ID and reporting 0 2 2

 Total 1269 29691 30960
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

270

39.3

27.3

31.7

34.8

39.8

48.2

29.1

19.4

16.7 15.9 14.6 15.0 13.9 14.3 13.1 12.2

38.2

42.6

40.8 41.9 43.3

38.7

Marine Corps Fiscal Resource Overview

Forecast (POM-10)

FY15

As of: 14 Apr 09

8.6

3.60

9.3

3.80

10.0

3.90

10.2

4.10

10.4

4.20

11.1

3.90

12.4

3.50

12.6

4.10

13.9

4.70

19.3

3.0

6.10

18.7

2.1

6.30

17.2

8.1

6.00

17.2

9.6

7.20

17.6

13.4

7.40

22.0

12.5

8.10

24.9

7.6

9.30

26.7

11.50

27.7

11.04

28.1

11.22

29.8

12.81

28.6

12.26

29.4

12.52

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

50

$B

FY94 FY96 FY98 FY00 FY02 FY04 FY06 FY08 FY10 FY12 FY14

Supplemental BISOG

Baseline BISOG

Supplemental Green

Baseline Green

Marine Corps Fiscal Resource Overview

Marine Corps Fiscal Landscape

Marine Corps Fiscal Landscape

FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15

0.00

2.00

4.00

6.00

8.00

10.00

12.00

14.00

16.00

18.00

Manpower

Ops & Maint

Investment

MCON/FH

$ in Billions

As of: 10 Apr 09
chapter 5 marine corps almanac

271

Marine Corps Fiscal Year 2010 Total TOA

(Rounded to $ Million)

MPMC

OMMC

PMC

MCON

RDTEN

DHAMC

PANMC

RPMC

OMMCR

FHCON

DHAMCR

FHOPS

MCNR

$391

$616

$229$94$130

$34

$22

$1,595

$2,937

$1,092

$1,136

$12,919

$5,531

As of: 10 Apr 09

Marine Corps Fiscal Year 2010 Total TOA (Rounded to $ Million)

Marine Corps Fiscal Year 2010 Appropriations 

Marine Corps Fiscal year 2010 Appropriations

Manpower

51%

Ops & Maint

21%

Investment

12%

MCON/FH

11%

As of: 10 Apr 09
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

272

Marine Corps Procurement Summary ($ in Millions)

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

7000

8000

9000

FY00 FY01 FY02 FY03 FY04 FY05 FY06 FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10

$1,292 $1,569

$5,452 $5,030

$1,567

$8,052

$1,185 $936

$1,595

$1,938

$6,312

As of: 10 Apr 09

Marine Corps Procurement Summary ($ in Million)

Marine Corps Selected Ground Equipment Aging

35

42

25

20

5

22

7

14

1

15

22 20 21

42

13

34

3

26

0

10

20

30

40

50

Selected Ground Equipment Aging

Years

30

29

10

36

7

33

RAM

SLEP

3

6

17

SLEP

LAV

-A2

Upgrade

AVG EQUIP AGE

SLEP

PROG SERVICE LIFE

XX AGE OF OLDEST IN INVENTORY

891MVAA SVL VAL

Replacement EF V M 777 HM M W V - A 2 EC V LVSR SLEP

IOC 2015 2005 2002 1999 2006 2009 2005 1991 2008

F OC 2025 2011 2004 2006 2012 2012 2009 1993 2010

M TVR

WR EC KER M 1A 1

H M M WV

H IM A R S

0-
chapter 5 marine corps almanac

273

Marine Corps Average Aircraft Age Marine Corps Average Aircraft Age

46

42

39 38

35

33 32 31

26

22

20 19 19 18

15 14

11

6

4

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

50

KC-130F

HH-46D

CH-46E

CH-53D

HH-1N

UH-1N

VH-3D

KC-130R

EA-6B

F/A-18A

VH-60N

CH-53E

KC-130T

AH-1W

F/A-18C

F/A-18D

AV-8B

KC-130J

MV-22B
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

274

APPENDIX A Other Supporting Programs

Marine Corps Embassy Security Group

In few places can the effect of the 

“Strategic Corporal” be more readily seen 

than with the Marine Security Guard who 

stands alone at Post One, responsible for 

safeguarding the Nation’s secrets and protecting the hundreds of unarmed American civilians within his or her diplomatic 

facility. Dedicated and versatile, Marine 

Security Guards have proven themselves 

invaluable, and the need for them continues to grow. Marines today stand post 

at 148 embassies and consulates in 133 

countries, and detachments will commence operations at ten more posts during the coming decade.

Overarching this global array of detachments is the Marine Corps Embassy Security Group (MCESG). MCESG

works closely with the Department of 

State’s Diplomatic Security Service at every level, especially with their training 

and operational arms, to ensure that each 

embassy guard is ready and equipped for 

likely and unlikely challenges. MCESG

evolved from the Marine Security Guard 

Battalion (MSG Bn), which first provided 

Marines to diplomatic facilities in 1949 

with the primary mission of safeguarding 

our Nation’s classified information. The 

primary mission has not changed, but 

the “can-do” spirit that prepared embassy 

guards for their mission at the program’s 

outset was augmented by a formal training program in the 1950s, and further 

refined with a comprehensive candidate 

screening program in the 1980s. 

However, it was not until after the 

September 2001 attacks on America that 

MSG Bn (as MCESG was still designated) 

accelerated its transformation to meet the 

threat of sudden attack by terrorists intent 

on wholesale execution of Americans and 

our friends.

For example, in 2004, when a team 

of al Qaeda terrorists assaulted the U.S. 

consulate in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, a MSG

Sergeant barred their entry, responded 

his detachment and, in the midst of ter-
appendix a other supporting programs

275

rorist gun fire and improvised explosive 

devices, assisted his detachment in shepherding embassy personnel to safety and 

protecting them until the terrorist threat 

was eliminated. That Marine and his acting detachment commander—Sergeant 

Manuel Matos and Staff Sergeant Michael 

Youngblood—were awarded the Bronze 

Star with combat ‘V’ for their courage and 

quick-thinking under fire.

The re-designation of MSG Battalion 

to Marine Corps Embassy Security Group 

in 2007 was an overdue acknowledgement 

that the Battalion had not only outgrown 

battalion size—then totalling nine “companies” each commanded by a Lieutenant 

Colonel—but also required diverse and 

specialized functions—as demonstrated 

by their heavily-tasked Behavioral Science, Legal, Comptroller and other special staff sections. MSG Bn evolved into 

MCESG through the expanding number 

of detachments, and through the diverse 

and complex international challenges 

overcome in the past decades.

Today, U.S. diplomats, citizens and 

sensitive diplomatic information remain 

valuable targets for foreign intelligence 

agents, criminals and terrorists. Embassy 

guards have always been skilled in protecting against foreign intelligence collection, but now they must also be wellschooled in anti-terrorism and internal 

defense.

By necessity, Embassy detachments 

remain small; when assaults occur, Marine Security Guards expect to be outnumbered by their opponents. Through 

teamwork, technology, training and leadership, however, the small detachment 

acts with a single mindset. Intimately 

familiar with the building they must defend, the Marine Security Guard Detachment is a formidable adversary to any foe, 

and an asset to U.S. diplomacy.
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

276

Marine Barracks, Washington, D.C.

Established in 1801, Marine Barracks 

Washington, located in Washington D.C., 

is the “Oldest Post of the Corps” and has 

been the residence of every Commandant 

of the Marine Corps since 1806. Selection 

of the site was a matter of personal interest to President Thomas Jefferson, who 

rode through Washington with the Commandant, Lieutenant Colonel Burrows, in 

search of a suitable location. They chose 

the site now occupied due to its proximity 

to the Washington Navy Yard and its easy 

marching distance to the Capitol. Marine 

Barracks has also been the home of the 

United States Marine Band since 1801. 

Shortly after its formation in 1798, the 

Band played for President John Adams 

at the Executive Mansion. This engagement began a tradition so durable that 

today the names “Marine Band” and “The 

President’s Own” are synonymous. John 

Philip Sousa, the most famous director 

of the “The President’s Own,” wrote many 

immortal marches such as “The Stars and 

Stripes Forever” and “Semper Fidelis.” 

Today, Barracks Marines perform 

many tasks in support of the Marine 

Corps’ diverse missions. These include 

infantry training, ceremonies, funeral 

details and presidential support duty, 

including a company of “8th and I” Marines that fulfills a security mission for 

the First Family at Camp David. The Barracks is also home to the Marine Corps 

Institute (MCI), founded in 1920 by 13th 

Commandant of the Marine Corps, General John A. LeJeune. MCI is the Corps’ 

distance training center, which is responsible for all non-resident military education programs.

Evening Parade

An 85-minute performance of music 

and precision marching, the Evening Parade features “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band, “The Commandant’s Own” United States Marine Drum 

and Bugle Corps, and the Ma-rine Corps 

Silent Drill Platoon. Evening Parades are 

held Friday evenings from 1 May through 

28 August 2009 and start with an 8:45 

p.m. concert by “The President’s Own.”
appendix a other supporting programs

277

How To Make Parade 

Reservations

Seating for the Evening Parade requires a reservation. Guests with reservations are admitted at 7:00 p.m., and 

should arrive no later than 8 p.m. Reservations may be requested in writing, facsimile, or, for groups six of less, at www.

mbw.usmc.mil. Mail reservation requests 

to the Protocol Officer, Marine Barracks, 

8th and I Streets, S.E. Washington, D.C. 

20390-5000, at least 30 days prior to a 

desired parade date. Requests via facsimile should be sent to the attention of 

the Protocol Officer at (202) 433-4076. 

The request should include the name of 

the party (either group or individual), the 

number of guests in the party, a complete 

return address and a point of contact 

with a telephone number. An alternate 

parade date should be included in case 

the primary date requested is unavailable. 

Confirmations and gate assignments for 

reservation requests will be made by return mail. At approximately 8:10 p.m., 

wait-ing guests without reservations are 

offered unclaimed seats.

There are no designated public parking spaces in the immediate vicinity of 

the Barracks. Guests can park at Maritime Plaza, located at 1201 M Street S.E., 

for a free shuttle service to and from 

the Barracks. The first shuttle departs 

Maritime Plaza at 7 p.m., and the last 

shuttle will return guests to Maritime 

Plaza at 11 p.m. Additional information 

is available at the parade information 

line: (202) 433-6060, or at the Marine 

Barracks Washington website.

Sunset Parade

A one-hour performance, the Sunset Parade features “The Commandant’s 

Own” United States Marine Drum and 

Bugle Corps and a precision drill exhibition by the Marine Corps Silent Drill 

Platoon. The Sunset Parade is conducted every Tuesday evening from 2 June 

through 11 August 2009. All Sunset Parades begin at 7 p.m., except for the final 

two, which begin at 7:30 p.m. The Sunset 

Parade, held at the Marine Corps War 

Memorial in Arlington, Virginia, is open 

to the public at no charge. Reservations 

are not necessary. Spacious lawns provide ample room for guests to bring lawn 

chairs and blankets for informal viewing. 

There are no public parking spaces available at the memorial grounds on parade 

evenings. Guests may park at the Arlington National Cemetery Visitors’ Center 

for a minimal fee. A free shuttle service is 

provided from the Visitors’ Center to the 

War Memorial from 5 to 7 p.m. before the 

parade and will return guests to the Visitor’s Center from 8 to 9 p.m. following the 

parade.
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

278

USMC History Division

The mission of the History Division 

continues to be about writing, documenting and tracking the history of the Marine 

Corps across the entire spectrum of its organizational existence. History Division 

historians, working within the Marine 

Corps University and in close coordination with the National Museum of the 

Marine Corps (NMMC) and the Library 

of the Marine Corps, are charged with 

the collection, writing, publication and 

distribution of documents and accounts 

of permanent value to the history of the 

Corps. As such the History Division is 

divided into five individual and distinct 

supporting branches: Histories, Reference, Oral History, Field History and the 

Marine Corps University Press. 

The Histories Branch engages in the 

research, writing and editing of the official 

histories of the Marine Corps. The variety 

of official historical publications ranges 

from pamphlets to digital compilations 

to case-bound, definitive histories for distribution within the Marine Corps, other 

Federal agencies and the general public. 

The branch also coordinates the Grants 

and Fellowships in Marine Corps History 

Program and the History Division Intern 

Program, both supported by the Marine 

Corps Heritage Foundation. Research 

includes production of monographs on 

the Marine Corps and the Global War on 

Terrorism, a comprehensive history of 

the Marine Corps in Desert Shield/Desert Storm, two battle studies on Najaf and 

An Nasiriyah, occasional papers on Operation Iraqi Freedom II, a unique battle 

study of Khe Sanh 1968, and a definitive 

history of the early 19th-Century Marine 

Corps, in anticipation of the bicentennial 

of the War of 1812, to be followed by a 

history of Marines in the “Steam Navy.” 

Further, the branch is heavily engaged 

in producing a commemorative history 

of the first 100 years of Marine Corps 

Aviation, due out in late 2011. The branch 

recently published several anthologies, 

including a very good reference book on 

Marine Corps Counterinsurgency Operations from the Philippine Insurrection to 

Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring 

Freedom. 

The Historical Reference Branch 

maintains topical working files that cover 

five primary areas of interest to Marine 

Corps history: specific history subjects, 

biographical files on prominent Marines, 

unit, and geographic area files where Ma-
appendix a other supporting programs

279

rines have operated in the past. Through 

these files, the branch can readily track 

and answer historical inquiries from a 

wide customer base that ranges from the 

office of the Commandant, members of 

Congress, Flag and General Officers, and 

the general public at large. The branch is 

also tasked with researching and producing Unit Lineage and Honors certificates 

for more than 432 individual commands. 

The program also keeps a running record 

of all reported Marine Corps exercises 

and campaigns. The branch is responsible for the Commemorative Naming 

program and researches history to ensure 

that Marine Corps buildings, facilities 

and streets are named for deserving Marines. In sum, the branch’s robust historical working files provide an excellent and 

readily available trove of information on 

historically related subjects. 

The Oral History Branch conducts 

oral interviews with a wide variety of current and former Marines in support of 

research and the history writing effort of 

the Division as a whole. The branch takes 

a directed collection approach in that it 

focuses its effort and resources on the collection of information from past and present Commandants of the Marine Corps, 

senior General Officers, prominent Marine combat veterans and general veteran 

accounts of past wars and service in that 

order of priority. The branch also gathers 

career interviews on those Marines who 

shaped the setting of policy, doctrine, or 

had a decided effect on the Marine Corps 

as an institution. 

The Field History Branch is a unique 

entity within the History Division and is 

manned entirely by reserve component 

Marines. These Marines become part of 

the Division’s Individual Mobilization 

Augmentee (IMA) component and deploy on an occasional basis with combat 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

280

units operating abroad. Their primary 

mission is to collect oral history interviews from a wide variety of Marines at 

all levels of command and authority, from 

MEF commanders all the way to individual Marines at the squad level. Equipped 

with digital recorders, cameras and laptops, the branch is tasked with interviewing Marines recently engaged with enemy 

combatants and capturing historically 

important information while such data 

remain relatively fresh in the minds of 

those who had been engaged in recent 

field operations. 

In the summer 2008, as part of the 

Marine Corps University’s strategic plan, 

the History Division established the new 

Marine Corps University Press. Acting 

as a subsidiary branch within the division, the Press will also serve the greater 

University community. Furthermore, the 

Press will also produce for the first time 

a Marine Corps University Journal. The 

Journal will focus on the publication of 

articles on a variety of national security 

topics that have the potential to impact 

Marine Corps doctrine and operations. 

Since the Division already has an editing 

and design section for the production of 

its historical publications, the creation of 

a Marine Corps University Press to support the publication of relevant academic 

material made eminent sense. As such, 

the Division has hired a Senior Editor and 

several supporting editorial and technical staff who will oversee the production 

of both History Division and University 

Press publications. 

During 2009, the Division continues 

to improve its website and has added a spot 

for the University Press. The Division also 

continues on its five-year plan to digitize 

all its reference branch material and place 

the documents on a shared drive, with 
appendix a other supporting programs

281

the intent to make such material readily 

available to all researchers (www.history.

usmc.mil). Questions on the specific programs and operations of the History Division can be sent to charles.neimeyer@

usmc.mil. The mission of the National 

Museum of the Marine Corps continues 

to be to preserve and exhibit the material 

history of the Corps; honor the commitment, accomplishments and sacrifices of 

Marines; support recruitment and education; retain Marines and provide the 

public with a readily accessible platform 

for exploration of Marine Corps history. 

In keeping with that mission, in 2009 the 

Museum will focus on continuing to be 

a work in progress, educating the public and maintaining a strong awareness 

of the museum to the local and Marine 

Corps communities.

Construction on Phase 1A began in 

January 2009, with an anticipated completion of May 2010. The galleries of this next 

phase of the Museum will take visitors 

from the Corps’ birth in 1775, through 

the end of the Civil War, the age of reconstruction and expansion, and WW I. 

While this work will require dismantling 

the Global War on Terrorism gallery, 

there will continue to be a GWOT presence throughout the construction phase. 

The construction will not end with Phase 

1A, as the conceptual plans for Phase 2 

are already in the works and continue to 

be explored. This last phase, the “completion of the circle,” will pick up Marine 

Corps history in 1975 and continue to 

evolve as the Marine Corps continues its 

mission into the future. Plans for Phase 2 

include more galleries, a combat art gallery, studios, large-screen movie-theater 

and classrooms.

Classrooms are already an important part of the museum’s mission, especially with the addition of the Teacher in 

Residence program. The purpose of this 

grant-funded program is to create curriculum and develop programs in conjunction with NMMC educators and serve a 

liaison between the museum and local 

school districts. During the construction 

phases, the classrooms are housed in a 

portable adjacent to the Museum. This allows for students to tour the museum, using gallery guides designed by the resident 

teacher, and then go to the classroom for 

further discussion. The intent of the program is to educate young adults not only 

about Marine Corps history but the history of the nation that so many Marines 

have fought to defend.

The docent outreach program also 

endeavors to educate the public about the 

museum and the history of the Marine 

Corps. Fully trained and dedicated volunteers will take the museum’s story on 

the road. Outreach sessions will be conducted at local festivals as well as events 

and festivals in further out surrounding 

areas. The museum will also be involved 

in outreach through Marine Week, a new 

Marine Corps initiative akin to Fleet or 

Navy Week.

Another new initiative at the museum is a partnership with the Warfighting 

Lab to introduce emerging Marine Corps 

technology to the general public, giving them an opportunity to see not only 
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

282

where the Corps has been but where it 

is going. The Warfighting Lab will bring 

items such as the WASP and RAVEN to 

the museum to demonstrate their capabilities in a controlled environment. A realization by the public of what the Corps 

can do will help ensure continued support 

and respect for the Corps. 

Temporary exhibits continue to be an 

integral part of the NMMC. The newest 

exhibit is a pictorial tribute to the Marines and U.S. Navy who served in Beirut 

25 years ago, told through the words of 

the participants, the lenses of their cameras and the pencils and brushes of the 

combat artists. This exhibit, which hangs 

from the wall outside Making Marines, 

will stay in the museum for one year.

Finally, NMCC staff has redesigned 

Corridor 7 at the Pentagon to pay tribute 

to the commandants who have led the 

Corps throughout its history and also to 

honor all Marines. The color scheme of 

the corridor will be consistent with the 

red and blue used throughout the museum and commandants’ portraits and 

biographies will be displayed with a unified theme. The corridor will end with a 

life-size statue of Waterhouse’s painting of 

a continental Marine and modern Marine 

flanking the globe. Questions on the specific programs and operations of the National Museum of the Marine Corps can 

be sent to lin.ezell@usmc.mil.
appendix B acronyms & abbreviations

283

APPENDIX B

Acronyms & Abbreviations

AAAV Advanced Amphibious Assault Vehicle 

(Now called EFV)

AAO Approved Acquisition Objective

AAP Abbreviated Acquisition Program

AAV Assault Amphibious Vehicle

AAW AntiAir Warfare

AAWSH AntiArmor Weapon System Heavy

AAWSM Advanced Antitank Weapon 

System Medium

ABC/M Activity Based Costing 

and Management

ABV Assault Breacher Vehicle

AC2S Airborne Command and 

Control System

ACADA Automatic Chemical Agent 

Detector Alarm

ACAT Acquisition Category

ACE Aviation Combat Element

ACM Air Contingency MAGTF

ACMC Assistant Commandant 

of the Marine Corps

ACP Aviation Continuation Pay

ACS Advanced Countermine System

ACTD Advanced Concept 

Technology Demonstration

ADCP Air Defense 

Communications Platform

ADFCS Advanced Digital Fire 

Control System

ADM Acquisition Decision Memorandum

ADS Advanced Distributed Simulation

ADS Active Denial System

AE Assault Echelon

AFATDS Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data 

System

AFOE Assault Followon Echelon

AFV Armored Fighting Vehicle

AGLEP Advanced Ground 

Laser Eye Protection

AGS Advanced Gun System

AIS Automated Information System

AIT	 Automated Identification

Technology

ALAM Advanced Land Attack Missile

ALC Area Learning Center

ALEP Amphibious Lift 

 Enhancement Plan

AMC Air Mobility Command

AMCM Airborne Mine Countermeasures

AMD Advanced Mine Detector

AMRAAM Advanced MediumRange

Air to Air Missile

ANBACIS Automated Nuclear Biological 

and Chemical Information System

ANGLICO	 Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company

AO Acquisition Objective

AoA Analysis of Alternatives

AOR Area of Responsibility

AP AntiPersonnel

APECS All Purpose Environmental 

Clothing System

APN Aircraft Procurement Navy

APOBS Antipersonnel Obstacle 

Breaching System

APOD/E Aerial Port of Debarkation/

Embarkation

APS Active Protective System

ARC Aviation Refueling Capability 

ARDEC Army Research Development 

and Engineering Center

ARG Amphibious Ready Group

AS Analysis Substation

ASD / C3I Assistant Secretary of Defense

for Command, Control, 

Communications and Intelligence

ASPARCS Air Surveillance and Precision 

Approach Radar Control System

ASUW Antisurface Warfare

ASVAB Armed Services 

Vocational Aptitude Battery

ASW Antisubmarine Warfare

AT Antiterrorism

AT&L Acquisition, Technology 

and Logistics

AT/FP Antiterrorism/Force Protection

ATACC Advanced Tactical 

Air Command Central

ATACMS Army Tactical Missile System

ATARS Advanced Tactical Airborne 

Reconnaissance System
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

284

ATC	 Air Traffic Control

ATD Advanced Technology 

Development

ATF Amphibious Task Force

ATL Advanced Tactical Laser

ATLASS Asset Tracking Logistics 

and Supply System

ATM Asynchronous Transfer Mode

ATO Air Tasking Order

AVDTV Armored Vehicle Driver’s 

Thermal Viewer

AVDVE Armored Vehicle Driver’s 

Vision Enhancer

AWE	 Advanced Warfighting Experiment

BA Budget Activity/Authority

BAH Basic Allowance for Housing

BDA Battle Damage Assessment/

Bomb Damage Assessment

BFT Blue Force Tracker

BFV Bradley Fighting Vehicle

BMAR Backlog of Maintenance 

and Repair

BMDO	 Ballistic Missile Defense Office

BOS Base Operating Support

BRAC Base Realignment and Closure

BST Basic Skills Trainer

BTI Base Telecommunications 

Infrastructure

BU Block Upgrade

BUMED Bureau of Medicine

BUR Bottom Up Review

BUST Basic Urban Skills Training

BV Base Vehicle

C2 Command and Control

C2PC Command and Control 

Personal Computer

C3I Command, Control, 

Communications and Intelligence

C4I Command, Control, Communications, 

Computers and Intelligence

C4I2 Command, Control, 

Communications, Computers, 

Intelligence and Interoperability

C4ISR Command, Control, 

Communications, Computers,

Intelligence Surveillance 

and Reconnaissance

CA Civil Affairs

CAC2S Common Aviation Command 

and Control System

CACCTUS Combined Arms Command and 

Control Training Upgrade System

CAEMS Computer Aided Embarkation 

Management System

CAM Chemical Agent Monitor

CAOCL Center for Advanced Operational 

Culture Learning

CARAT	 Cooperation Afloat

Readiness and Training

CAST Combined Arms Staff Trainer

CATF Commander Amphibious 

Task Force

CAX	 Combined Arms Exercise

CBIRF Chemical Biological Incident 

Response Force

CBIS Chemical Biological 

Individual Sampler

CBMRFS Concept Based Munitions 

Requirement System

CBRNE Chemical Biological Radiological 

Nuclear Explosive

CBV Combat Breacher Vehicle

CCA Clinger Cohan Act

CCD Charged Couple Device

CCENT Commander, Central Command

CCS COMINT Collection Subsystem

CD Counter/Drug

CDPU Computer Data Processing Unit

CDR Critical Design Review

CDS Combat Development System

CE Command Element

CEC Cooperative Engagement 

Capability

CECM Communications Electronic 

Countermeasures

CENTCOM Central Command

CETO Center for Emerging Threats 

and Opportunities

CETPS Cooperative Engagement 

Transmission Processing Set
appendix B acronyms & abbreviations

285

CEUR Commander, Europe

CFAC Clear Facilities 

CFC Combined Forces Command

CG Commanding General

CI/HUMINT Counterintelligence/ 

Human Intelligence

CIA Central Intelligence Agency

CIC Combat Integration Capability

CID	 Combat Identification

CIGSS Common Imagery Ground/

Surface System

CIHEP Counter Intelligence/Human 

Intelligence Equipment Program

CJFCOM Commander, Joint Forces 

Command

CLANTFLT Commander, Atlantic Fleet

CLRF Common Laser Range Finder

CLS Contractor Logistics Support

CMO Civil Military Operations

CPAC	 Commander, Pacific

CPACFLT	 Commander, Pacific Fleet

CSOUTH Commander, Southern Command

CIO	 Chief Information Officer

CJCS Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff

CJF Commander Joint Force

CJTF Commander Joint Task Force

CLAWS Complementary Low Altitude 

Weapons System

CLC2S Common Logistics Command 

and Control System

CM Consequence Management

CMC Commandant of the 

 Marine Corps

CMV Combat Mobility Vehicle

CNA Computer Network Attack

CND Computer Network Defensse

CNE	 Computer Network Exploitation

C NA Center for Naval Analyses

CNO Chief of Naval Operations

COBRA	 Coastal Battlefield

Reconnaissance Analysis

COC Combat Operations Center

COCOM Combatant Commander

COE Common Operating Environment

COE Concept of Employment

COMINT Communications Intelligence

COMMARFOREUR Commander, US Marine Forces, 

Europe

COMMARFORCOM Commander, US Marine Forces, Command

COMMARFORPAC Commander, US Marine Forces, Pacific

COMMARFORRES Commander, US Marine Forces, 

Reserve

COMNAV Communication Navigation

COMSEC Communications Security

COMUSNAVCENT Commander US Navy 

Central Command

COMUSNAVEUR Commander US Navy Europe

COMUSNAVPAC	 Commander US Navy Pacific

CONPLAN Contingency Plan

CONUS Continental United States

COP Common Operational Picture

CORM Commission on Roles and 

Missions of the Armed Forces

COTS Commercial off the Shelf

CP Command Post

CPA Chairman’s Program Assessment

CPE Collective Protective Environment

CPG Commandant’s Planning Guidance

CPR Chairman’s Program Review

CPU Central Processing Unit

CPX	 Command Post Exercise

CQB Close Quarters Battle

CR Combat Requirement

CRDEC Chemical Research Development and 

Engineering Center

CROP Common Relevant 

Operating Picture

CRS	 Canteen Refilling System

CSAR Combat Search and Rescue

CSG Carrier Strike Group

CSS Combat Service Support

CT Counter Terrorism

CTI	 Central Tire Inflation

CTN Composite Tracking Network

CTOL Conventional Take Off 

and Landing

CTP Common Tactical Picture

CTT Commanders Tactical Terminal
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

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CV Conventional Aircraft Carrier

CVBG Carrier Battle Group

CVW Carrier Air Wing

CWAR Continuous Wave Acquisition Radar

CWT Customer Wait Time

CY Calendar Year

DA Direct Action

DAB Defense Acquisition Board

DACT Data Automated 

Communications Terminal

DAMA Demand Assigned Multiple Access

DARP Defense Airborne 

Reconnaissance Program

DARPA Defense Advanced 

Research Projects Agency

DART Defense Assistance 

 Response Team

DASC Direct Air Support Center

DAWMS	 Deep Attack Weapons Mix Study

DBBL Dismounted Battlespace 

 Battle Lab

DBOF Defense Business Operations Fund

DCGS Distributed Common 

Ground Systems

DCGS-MC Distributed Common Ground 

System – Marine Corps 

DCI&L Deputy Commandant for 

Installations and Logistics

DCIPS Defense Casualty Information Processing System

DCIPS Defense Civilian Intelligence 

Personnel System

DCP Defense Cryptologic Program

DCU Dynamic Component Upgrade

DDG Guided Missile Destroyer

DDS Data Distribution System

DEP Delayed Entry Program

DEPTEMPO Deployment Tempo

DF Direction Finding

DFT Deployments for Training

DHP Defense Health Care Program

DIA Defense Intelligence Agency

DIB Distributed Common Ground 

Systems (DCGS) Integrated Backbone

DII Defense Information Infrastructure

DIMAP Defense Imagery and 

Mapping Program

DIS Distributed Interactive Simulation

DISA Defense Information 

Systems Agency

DL Distance Learning

DLC Distance Learning Center

DLI Defense Language Institute

DMRD Defense Management 

Review Decision

DMS Defense Messaging System

DMSO Defense Modeling and 

Simulation Office

DMSS Defense Medical 

 Surveillance System

DOA Days of Ammunition

DoD Department of Defense

DoN Department of the Navy

DOS Days of Supply

DoS Department of State

DOTMLPF Doctrine, Organization, Training, Material, Leadership & Education, Personnel, 

and Facilities

DPE Data Processing Equipment

DPG Defense Planning Guidance

DPP Defense Program Projection

DPRB Defense Planning and 

Resources Board

DR Digital Radiography

DSCS Defense Satellite 

Communications System

DSN Defense Switched Network

DST Decision Support Tools

DT Developmental Test

DTC Digital Technical Control

DTS Defense Transportation System

DWTS PIP Digital Wideband 

Transmission System Product Improvement Program

EA Electronic Attack

EAF	 Expeditionary Air Field

EBFL	 Extended Boom Forklift

EDM Engineering Development Model

EFSS	 Expeditionary Fire Support System
appendix B acronyms & abbreviations

287

EFV	 Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle

(Formerly AAAV)

EHF	 Extremely High Frequency

EIS	 Expeditionary Intelligence Support

ELB	 Extended Littoral Battlespace

ELINT Electronics Intelligence

EMAIL Electronic Mail

EMD Engineering and 

Manufacturing Development

EMW	 Expeditionary Maneuver Warfare

ENBC Enhanced NBC Capability

EO Electro Optical

EOB Electronic Order of Battle/ 

Enemy Order of Battle

EOD	 Explosive Ordnance and Disposal

EOM Echelon of Maintenance

EP Electronic Protection

EPLRS Enhanced Position 

Location Reporting System

EPUU Enhanced PLRS User Units

ERGM	 Extended Range Guided Munitions

ERIP Engine Reliability 

Improvement Program

ERP Engine Reliability Program

ES Equipment Suit

ESF	 Expeditionary Strike Force

ESG	 Expeditionary Strike Group

ESP	 Extended Service Program

EUCOM European Command

EUL Economic Useful Life

EUT End User Terminal

EW Electronic Warfare

FAC Forward Air Controller

FARP Forward Arming Refueling Point

FASCAM Family of Scatterable Mines

FAST Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team

FATS Fire Arms Training System

FAV Fast Attack Vehicle

FDC Fire Direction Center

FDNF Forward Deployed Naval Forces

FDS Field Development System

FEA Front End Analysis

FEO Forcible Entry Operations

FEP Firepower Enhancement Program

FEX	 Field Exercise

FH Frequency Hopping

FHMC Family Housing Marine Corps

FIE Fly in Echelon

FIM Family of Improved Mortars

FIPP Final Integration and 

 Proveout Phase 

FLC Functional Learning Center

FLPP	 Foreign Language Proficiency Pay

FM Frequency Modulation

FMF Fleet Marine Force

FO Forward Observer

FOB Forward Operating Base

FOC Full Operational Capability

FOF Floating Offshore Facility

FOM Family of Munitions

FoS Family of Systems

FOV Family of Vehicles

FP Force Protection

FPLIF Field Pack Large with 

Internal Frame

FPU Front Power Unit

FRP Fleet Response Plan

FRP Full Rate Production

FRSS Forward Resuscitative 

Surgery System

FSC2S Fire Support Command 

and Control System

FSCC Fire Support Coordination Center

FSED Full Scale Engineering 

 Development

FSRM Facilities Sustainment 

Restoration and Modernization

FSSG Force Service Support Group

FTE Full Time Equivalent

FTL Far Target Location

FTS Full Time Support

FTSS Family of Tactical Soft Shelters

FUE First Units Equipped

FY Fiscal Year

FYDP Future Year Defense Plan

FYEP	 Five Year Experimentation Plan

GBS Global Broadcast Service

GCCS-I3 Global Command and Control Systems-
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

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Integrated Imagery and Intelligence

GCE Ground Combat Element

GCS Ground Control Station

GCSSMC Global Combat Support System Marine 

Corps

GEOINT Geospatial Intelligence 

GIG Global Information Grid

GLPS Gun Laying and 

Positioning System

GME Garrison Mobile Equipment

GMF Ground Mobile Forces

GOPLAT Gas and Oil Platform

GOTS Government off the Shelf

GP General Purpose

GPR Ground Processing Requirement

GPS Global Positioning System

GTN Global Transportation Network

GWOT Global War on Terrorism

HARM High Speed AntiRadiation Missile

HAW Heavy Antiarmor Weapon

HE	 High Explosive

HEMTT	 Heavy Expanded Mobility

Tactical Truck

HERCULES Heavy Equipment Recovery Combat 

Utility Lift and 

Evacuation System

HF High Frequency

HHMMWV Heavy Variant High Mobility 

Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle

HIMARS High Mobility Artillery 

Rocket System

HLA High Level Architecture

HLCAC Heavy Lift Landing Craft 

 Air Cushion

HMD High Mobility Downsize

HMH Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron

HMLA Marine Light Attack 

Helicopter Squadron

HMM Marine Medium 

Helicopter Squadron

HMMWV High Mobility Multipurpose 

Wheeled Vehicle

HMX Marine Helicopter Squadron 1

HNS Host Nation Support

HQMC Headquarters, Marine Corps

HSV High Speed Vessel

HUD Headsup Display

HUMINT Human Intelligence

HWM High Water Mark

HWTS Heavy Weapons Thermal Sight

I2	 Image Intensification

IA Information Assurance

IAS Intelligence Analysis System

IBR Intelligence Broadcast Receiver 

ICAD Individual Chemical 

Agent Detector

ICCE Individual Combat Clothing 

and Equipment

IDASC Improved Direct Air 

Support Center

IDIQ	 Indefinite Duration,

Indefinite Quantity Contract

IED	 Improvised Explosive Device

IFAV Interim Fast Attack Vehicle

IFF	 Identification Friend or Foe

IHR	 InExtremis Hostage Rescue

IICS Integrated Infantry 

Combat System

ILBE Improved Load 

Bearing Equipment

ILC Integrated Logistics Capability

IMA Individual Mobilization 

Augmentees

IMI Interactive Multimedia Instruction

IMINT Imagery Intelligence

INFOSEC Information Security

INRMP Integrated Natural Resource 

Management Plans

INS Inertial Navigation System

INTEL Intelligence 

IO Information Operations

IOC Initial Operational Capability

IOT Initial Operational Test

IOT&E Initial Operational Test 

and Evaluation

IOW Intelligence Operations 

Workstation

IPT Integrated Product/Process Team

IR Infrared

IR3B Integrated Resources and 
appendix B acronyms & abbreviations

289

Requirements Review Board

IRAM Improved Reliability 

and Maintainability

IROAN Inspect and Repair Only as 

 Necessary

IRR Individual Ready Reserve

IRV Improved Recovery Vehicle

IS Information Systems

ISDN Integrated Services Digital Network

ISMTE Indoor Simulated Marksmanship 

Trainer Enhanced

ISMT Indoor Simulated 

Marksmanship Trainer

ISO International Organization 

for Standardization

ISP Internet Service Provider

ISR Intelligence, Surveillance 

and Reconnaissance

ISSA InterService Support Agreement

IT Information Technology

ITAS Improved Target 

Acquisition System

ITV Internally Transportable Vehicle

IWAR Integrated Warfare Architecture

JAC Joint Analysis Center

JBPDS Joint Biological Point 

Detection System

JCAD Joint Chemical Agent Detector

JCAS Joint Close Air Support

JCATS	 Joint Conflict and

Tactical Simulation

JCD&E Joint Concept Development 

and Experimentation

JCIDS Joint Capabilities Integration 

and Development System 

JCS Joint Chiefs of Staff

JDAM Joint Direct Attack Munitions

JFACC Joint Force Air 

Component Commander

JFC Joint Force Commander

JFCOM Joint Force Command

JFLCC Joint Force Land 

Component Commander

JFMCC Joint Force Maritime 

Component Commander

JHSV Joint High Speed Vessel

JI&I Joint Integration and 

Interoperability

JIATFE Joint Interagency Task Force East

JIATFW Joint Interagency Task Force West

JIC Joint Intelligence Center

JIOC Joint Intelligence Operations Center

JIPT Joint Integrated Product Team

JLUS Joint Land Use Studies

JM JTIDS Module

JMAC Joint Maritime Assault Connector

JMA/SA Joint Mission Area/Support Area

JMAA /JMNA Joint Mission Area Analysis / 

Joint Mission Need Analysis

JMASS Joint Modeling and 

Simulation System

JMCIS UB Joint Maritime Command 

Information System Unified Build

JNLWD Joint NonLethal Weapons 

Directorate

JNLWP Joint NonLethal 

Weapons Program

JNMS Joint Network 

Management System

JOA Joint Operations Area

JOPES Joint Operation Planning 

and Execution System

JOTS Joint Operational Tactical System

JPOBIO	 Joint Program Office

for Biological Defense

JROC Joint Requirements 

Oversight Council

JSCP Joint Strategic Capabilities Plan

JSEAD Joint Suppression of 

Enemy Air Defenses

JSF Joint Strike Fighter

JSFXD	 Joint Service Fixed Site

Decontamination

JSIMS Joint Simulation System

JSLIST Joint Service Lightweight 

Integrated Suit Technology

JSLNBCRS Joint Service Light NBC 

Reconnaissance System

JSLSCAD Joint Services Lightweight 

Chemical Standoff Agent Detector

JSOC Joint Special Operations 

Command
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JSOW Joint Standoff Weapon

JSTARS Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar 

System 

JTF Joint Task Force

JTF HQ Joint Task Force Headquarters

JTIDS Joint Tactical Information 

Distribution System

JTRS Joint Tactical Radio System

JUW Joint Urban Warfare

JWARN Joint Warning and 

Reporting Network

JWARS Joint Warfare System

JWCA	 Joint Warfighting

Capability Assessment

JWFC	 Joint Warfighting Center

JWID Joint Warrior Interoperability 

Demonstrations

JWTC Joint Warfare Training Center/ 

Jungle Warfare Training Center

KPP Key Performance Parameter

LAAD Low Altitude Air Defense

LAAD Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion

LAN Local Area Network

LAR Light Armored Reconnaissance

LAV Light Armored Vehicle

LAV SLEP	 LAV Service Life Extension

 Program

LAVAD Light Armored Vehicle Air Defense

LAVM Light Armored Vehicle Mortar

LAVFIST LAVFull Crew Interactive 

Simulator Trainer

LCAC Landing Craft Air Cushion

LCM Life Cycle Management

LCU(R) Landing Craft Utility Replacement

LEWDD Lightweight Early Warning 

Detection Device

LHA Amphibious Assault Ship 

General Purpose

LHA (R) Amphibious Assaut Ship 

 Replacement

LHD Amphibious Assault 

Ship, Multipurpose

LIC	 Low Intensity Conflict

LKA Amphibious Stores Ship

LLDR Lightweight Laser 

Designator Rangefinder

LLI Long Lead Item

LMCC Logistics Movement 

Control Center

LME Lightweight Maintenance 

 Enclosure

LMR Land Mobile Radio

LMRS Longterm Mine 

Reconnaissance System

LMS Lightweight Multipurpose Shelter

LMSR Large, Medium-Speed, 

Roll-on/Roll-off (ship)

LMST Lightweight Multiband 

Satellite Terminals

LNBCRS Lightweight Nuclear Biological and 

Chemical Reconnaissance System

LOE	 Limited Objective Experiment

LOGAIS Logistics Automated 

Information System

LP/OP Listening Post/Observation Post

LPD Amphibious Transport Dock [Ship]

LPH Amphibious Assault Ship 

Helicopter

LPP Littoral Penetration Point

LRA Local Registration Authority

LRC Learning Resource Center

LRIP Low Rate Initial Production

LRLAP Long Range Land Attack Projectile

LSD Landing Ship Dock

LST Laser Spot Trackers/ 

Landing Ship Tank/ Troop

LTA Launch Tube Assembly

LTVR Light Tactical Vehicle Replacement

LVS Logistics Vehicle System

LW155 Lightweight 155mm Howitzer

LWH Lightweight Helmet

M&S Modeling & Simulation

MAA Mission Area Analysis

MACCS Marine Air Command 

and Control System

MACE MEFAugmentation 

Command Element

MACG Marine Air Control Group

MACP Marine Aviation Campaign Plan

MACS Marine Air Control Squadron

MAG Marine Aircraft Group
appendix B acronyms & abbreviations

291

MAGTFTC Marine Corps Air Ground 

Combat Center

MAGTF Marine Air Ground Task Force

MALS Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron

MARCENT Marine Forces Central Command

MARCORSYSCOM Marine Corps System Command

MARDIV Marine Division

MARFOR Marine Forces

MARFORCOM Marine Forces Command

MARFOREUR Marine Forces Europe

MARFORPAC	 Marine Forces Pacific

MARFORRES Marine Forces Reserve

MARFORSOUTH Marine Forces South

MARINENET Marine Corps Learning Network

MARS Marine Aviation 

Requirements Study

MASINT Measurement and 

Signature Intelligence

MATCALS	 Marine Air Traffic Control

and Landing System

MCATCD	 Marine Corps Air Traffic

Control Detachment

MAW Marine Aircraft Wing

MAW Medium AntiArmor Weapon

MAWTS1 Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics 

Squadron One

MBC Mortar Ballistic Computer

Mbps Megabits per second

MBST Marine Battle Skills Training

MBT Main Battle Tank

\MCARMS Marine Corps Ammunition 

Requirements Management System

MCAS Marine Corps Air Station

MCB Marine Corps Base

MCCDC Marine Corps Combat 

Development Command

MCCPIP Marine Corps Continuous 

Process Improvement Program

MCCS Marine Corps Community Services

MCCUU Marine Corps Combat 

Utility Uniform

MCDN Marine Corps Data Network

MCEN Marine Corps Enterprise Network

MCFSS Marine Corps Fire Support System

MCHS Marine Corps Common 

Hardware Suite

MCI Marine Corps Institute

MCIA Marine Corps Intelligence Activity

MCIS Marine Corps Intelligence School

MCISR-E Marine Corps Intelligence, 

Surveillance, Reconnaissance 

Enterprise 

MCLCP Marine Corps Logistics 

Campaign Plan

MCM Mine Countermeasures

MCMAP Marine Corps Martial Arts Program

MCMP Marine Corps Master Plan

MCMSO Marine Corps Modeling and 

Simulation Management Office

MCMWTC Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center

MCNR Military Construction Navy Reserve

MCON Military Construction

MCOTEA Marine Corps Operational Test

and Evaluation Activity

MCP Mission Capability Package

MCPON	 Master Chief Petty Officer

of the Navy

MCPP Marine Corps Planning Process

MCRC Marine Corps Recruiting 

Command

MCSF Marine Corps Security Forces

MCSSC2 Marine Combat Service Support Command and Control

MCT Marine Combat Training

MCTEEP	 Marine Corps Training Exercise

Employment Plan

MCTSSA Marine Corps Tactical System 

Support Activity

MCWL Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory

MDA Milestone Decision Authority

MDC Material Distribution Center

MDSS MAGTFDeployment 

Support System

MEB	 Marine Expeditionary Brigade

MEB (AE)	 Marine Expeditionary Brigade

Assault Echelon

MEB (AT)	 Marine Expeditionary Brigade

(Antiterrorism)

MCCES Marine Corps Communications 

and Electronics School
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

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MEF	 Marine Expeditionary Force

MEFFV	 MAGTF Expeditionary Family

of Fighting Vehicles

MEP Mobile Electric Power

MEP Marine Enhancement Program

MEU	 Marine Expeditionary Unit

MEU (SOC)	 Marine Expeditionary Unit

(Special Operations Capable)

MEWSS Mobile Electronic 

Warfare Support System

MFK Mobile Field Kitchen

MFOM MLRS Family of Munitions

MHE Materials Handling Equipment

Mhz Megahertz

MIA Missing In Action

MILCON Military Construction Navy

MILES Multiple Integrated Laser 

Engagement System

MILSTAR Military Strategic and 

Tactical Relay

MIO Maritime Interdiction Operations

MIP Military Intelligence Program

MLA Medium Lift Alternative

MLG Marine Logistics Group

MLP Mobile Landing Platform (ship)

MLRS Multiple Launch Rocket System

MLS Marine Load System

MMS Marine Mammal System

MNS Mission Needs Statement

MOA Memorandum of Agreement

MOL Marine on Line

MOLLE Modular Lightweight 

Load Carrying Equipment

MOOTW Military Operations Other than War

MOPP Mission Oriented Protective Posture

MOS Military Occupational Specialty

MOU Memorandum of Understanding

MOUT Military Operations in Urban Terrain

MPF Maritime Prepositioning Force

MPF (F) Maritime Prepositioning Force (Future)

MPIM MultiPurpose Individual Munition

MPMC Military Personnel Marine Corps

MPS Maritime Prepositioning Ships

MPSRON Maritime Prepositioning 

Ships Squadron

MRB MROC Review Board

MROC Marine Requirements 

Oversight Council

MRP Maintenance of Real Property

MRRS MultiRole Radar System

MRS Mobility Requirements Study

MSBL MAGTFSoftware Baseline

MSC Military Sealift Command

MSC Major Subordinate Command

MSE Major Subordinate Element

MSG Marine Security Guard Battalion

MSIDS Marine Air-Ground Task 

Force Secondary Imagery 

Dissemination System 

MSTP MAGTFStaff Training Program

MTACCS Marine Tactical Command and Control 

System

MTID MILES Target Interface Device

MTVR Medium Tactical Vehicle 

Replacement

MTWS MAGTF Warfare Simulation

MULE Modular Universal Laser Equipment

MWS Modular Weapon System

MWSG Marine Wing Support Group

MWSS Marine Wing Support Squadrons

MWTS Medium Weapon Thermal Sight

NAF Non–Appropriated Funds

NALMEB Norway Air Landed MEB

NAPDD Non–Acquisition Category 

Program Definition Document

NAS Naval Air Station

NATO North Atlantic Treaty Organization

NAVFLIR Navigation Forward Looking Infrared

NBC Nuclear, Biological and Chemical

NCO	 Noncommissioned Officer

NCSE (D) Downsized Enhanced Net 

Control Station

NDI Non–Developmental Item

NDP National Defense Panel

NDSS Network Data Storage Solution

NEF	 Naval Expeditionary Force

NEO Noncombatant Evacuation 

Operations

NESEA Naval Electronics System 
appendix B acronyms & abbreviations

293

Engineering Activity

NFCS Naval Fires Control System

NGA National Geospatial Agency

NIPRNET Nonsecure Internet Protocol 

Router Network

NLW Non–Lethal Weapons

NM Nautical Miles

NMCB/R Naval Mobile Construction 

Battalion/ Regiment

NMCI Navy Marine Corps Intranet

NMITC Navy Marine Corps Intelligence Training Center 

NMS National Military Strategy

NOS Network Operating System

NRL Naval Research Lab

NRT Near Real Time

NSE Naval Support Equipment/ 

 Element

NSFS Naval Surface Fire Support

NTCSA Naval Tactical Command 

System Afloat

NTIS Night Thermal Imagery System

NTS Night Targeting System

NVG Night Vision Goggles 

O&MMC Operation and Maintenance 

Marine Corps

O&MMCR Operation and Maintenance 

Marine Corps Reserve

OEF Operation Enduring Freedom

OIF Operation Iraqi Freedom

OEO	 Other Expeditionary Operations

OMCM Organic Mine Countermeasure

OMFTS Operational Maneuver From the Sea

ONE Operation Noble Eagle

ONR	 Office of Naval Research

ONW Operation Northern Watch

OODA Observe, Orient, Decide, Act

OOTW Operations Other Than War

OPEVAL Operational Evaluation

OPLAN Operation Plan

OPNAV Chief of Naval Operations

OPP	 Offload Preparation Party

OPSEC Operations Security

OPTEMPO Operational Tempo

ORD Operational Requirements 

Document

OSA Operational Support Airlift

OSD	 Office of the Secretary of Defense

OSW Operation Southern Watch

OT&E Operational Test and Evaluation

OTH Over–the–Horizon

OTV Outer Tactical Vest

PA Public Affairs

PAA Primary Aircraft Authorization

PACOM	 Pacific Command

PANMC Procurement of Ammunition 

Navy and Marine Corps

PASGT Personal Armor System 

Ground Troops

PCS Permanent Change of Station

PDEA	 Power Driven Excavating Arm

PDR Preliminary Design Review

PDRR	 Program Definition

and Risk Reduction

PEO	 Program Execution Officer

PERSTEMPO Personnel Tempo 

PGM Precision Guided Munitions

PGS Precision Gunnery System

PGTS Precision Gunnery Training System

PIP Product Improvement Program

PITS Portable Infantry Target System

PKI Public Key Infrastructure

PLGSR Precision Lightweight Global 

Positioning System Receiver

PLRS Position Location Reporting 

System

PM Program Manager

PMC Procurement Marine Corps

PME Professional Military Education

POD Port of Debarkation

POE Port of Embarkation

POM Program Objective Memorandum

POW Prisoner of War

PP&O Plans, Policies and Operations

PPBES Planning, Programming, Budgeting, 

and Execution System

PPV Public/Private Ventures

PR Personnel Recovery

PRG Program Review Group
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

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PSD Propulsion System Demonstrator

PSYOP Psychological Operations

PWRMS Prepositioned War Reserve 

Material Stocks

QDR Quadrennial Defense Review

QoL Quality of Life

QUADCON Quadruple Containers

R&D Research and Development

R2D2 Radio Reconnaissance

Distribution Device

R2P2 Rapid Response Planning Process

R3B Resources and Requirements 

Review Board

RAC Riverine Assault Craft

RAM Reliability, Availability and 

Maintainability

RAM/RS Reliability, Availability and 

Maintainability/Rebuild to Standard

RAMD Reliability, Availability, 

Maintainability and Durability

RCT Repair Cycle Time

RDK Rapid Deployment Kitchen

RDT&E Research Development 

Test and Evaluation

RF Radio Frequency

RFP Request for Proposal

RHC Ruggedized Handheld Computer

RIS Range Instrumentation System

RMHS Remote Mine Hunting System

RMS Remote Mine Hunting System

RO/RO Rollon/Rolloff

ROC Required Operation Capability

ROE Rules of Engagement

ROWPU Reserve Osmosis 

Water Purification Unit

RPMC Reserve Personnel Marine Corps

RRC Rigid Raiding Craft

RREP Radio Reconnaissance 

Equipment Program 

RSO&I Reception, Staging, Onward 

Movement and Integration

S&T Science and Technology

SAG Surface Action Group

SAPI Small Arms Protective Insert

SAR Search and Rescue

SATCOM Satellite Communications

SC Security Cooperation

SCG Security Cooperation Guidance

SCN Shipbuilding and Conversion Navy

SCT Smart Card Technology

SDD System Development 

and Demonstration

SDE Shared Data Environment

SDS Sorbent Decontamination System

SE Supporting Establishment

SEAL Sea, Air, Land 

(Military Special Force Member)

SECREP Secondary Repairables

SEP Soldier Enhancement Program

SHADE Shared Data Environment

SHF Super High Frequency

SHORAD Short Range Air Defense

SIDS Secondary Imagery 

Dissemination System

SIE Systems Integration Environment

SIGINT Signals Intelligence

SINCGARS Single Channel Ground 

and Airborne Radio System

SIPRNET Secret Internet Protocol 

Router Network

SLEP	 Service Life Extension Program

SLOC Sea Lines of Communication

SLRP Survey Liaison 

& Reconnaissance Party

SMARTT Secure Mobile Anti–Jam 

Reliable Tactical Terminal

SMAW Shoulder Launched 

Multipurpose Assault Weapon

SMCM Surface Mine Countermeasures

SMCR Selected Marine Corps Reserve

SMMC Sergeant Major of the 

 Marine Corps

SNCO	 Staff Noncommissioned Officer

SOA Sustained Operations Ashore

SOC Special Operations Capable

SOI School of Infantry

SONET Synchronization Optical Network

SOUTHCOM Southern Command

SPACECOM Space Command
appendix B acronyms & abbreviations

295

SPAWAR Space and Naval Warfare 

System Command

SPMAGTF Special Purpose Marine 

AirGround Task Force

SPMAGTF(X) Special Purpose MAGTF

(Experimental)

SPOD/E Surface Port of Debarkation/

Embarkation

SRAW Short Range Antitank Weapon

SRB Selective Reenlistment Bonus

SRR Strategic and Residual 

Requirement

SRU Shop Replacement Units

SSCC SPAWAR Systems Center 

Charleston

ST Science and Technology

STAMIS Standard Management

Information Systems

START	 SHF Tri–Band Advanced Range Extension Terminal

STOM Ship to Objective Maneuver

STOVL Short Takeoff and Vertical Landing

STRATCOM Strategic Command

SUBD Small Unit Biological Detector

SURC Small Unit Riverine Craft

SURSS Small Unit Remote Scouting System

SWA Southwest Asia 

SWMCM Shallow Water Mine 

Countermeasures

SZ Surf Zone

T/M/S Type/Model/Series

TacAir Tactical Aviation

TACC Tactical Air Command Center

TACO Tactical Communications

TACOM US Army Tank Automotive & 

Armaments Command

TAD Towed Artillery Digitization

TAD Temporary Additional Duty

TAOC Tactical Air Operations Center

TAOM Tactical Air Operations Module

T-AKE Dry Cargo / Ammunition Ship

TAVB Aviation Logistics Support Ship

TBD To Be Determined

TBM Tactical Ballistic Missile

TBMCS Theater Battle 

Management Core System

TBMD Theater Ballistic Missile Defense

TCAC Technical Control 

and Analysis Center

TCC Tactical Communications Center

TCIM Tactical Communications

Interface Module

TCO Tactical Combat Operations

TCS Tactical Control Station

TDCP Tactical Data 

Communications Processor

TDMA Time Division Multiple Access

TDN Tactical Data Network

TDS Tactical Data System

TECOM Training and Education Command

TEG	 Tactical Exploitation Group

TEMP Test and Evaluation Master Plan

TEPOP Training and Education 

Point of Presence

TERPES Tactical Electronic Reconnaissance 

Processing and 

Evaluation System

TESS Tactical Engagement 

Simulation System

TETS Third Echelon Test Sets

TFDSS Total Force Decision 

 Support System

THS Target Handoff Subsystem

TIM	 Toxic Industrial Materials

TLAM Tomahawk Land Attack Missile

TLDHS Target Location Designation 

and Handoff System

TMIPM Theater Medical Information 

Program (Maritime)

TOA Total Obligation Authority

TOR Terms of Reference

TOW Tube Launched Optically 

Tracked Wire Guided Missile

TPC Topographic Production Capability

TPCS-MPC Team Portable Collection System-MultiPlatform Capable 

TPFDD/L Time Phased Force

Deployment Data/List

TQG Tactical Quiet Generator

TRAM Tractor Rubbertired Articulated Steering 

Multipurpose
USMC Con c ept s & P rogra ms 2009

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TRANSCOM Transportation Command

TRAP Tactical Recovery of 

Aircraft and Personnel

TRHS Tray Ration Heating System

TRITAC TriService Tactical 

Communications

TRSS Tactical Remote Sensor System

TSOC Theater Special 

Operations Commands

TSOF Technical Support of 

Operating Forces

TSS Target Sight System

TTP Tactics, Techniques and 

Procedures

TWGSS Tank Weapon Gunnery 

Simulator System

TWS Thermal Weapons Sight

TWSEAS Tactical Warfare Simulation 

Evaluation & Analysis System

UAV Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

UCP	 Unified Command Plan

UDP Unit Deployment Program

UGV Unmanned Ground Vehicle

UHF Ultra High Frequency

ULCS Unit Level Circuit Switch

UMCM Undersea Mine Countermeasures

UNC (K) United Nations Command (Korea)

UNITAS An annual US Southern 

Command–sponsored series 

of exercises in South America

UOC Unit Operations Center

USCENTCOM United States Central Command

USEUCOM United States European 

Command

USJFC United States 

Joint Forces Command

USMARCENT US Marine Corps Forces, 

Central Command

USMARFORK US Marine Corps Forces, Korea

USMC United States Marine Corps

USPACOM	 United States Pacific Command

USSOCOM US Special Operations Command

USSOUTHCOM United States Southern Command

UUV Unmanned Underwater Vehicle

V/STOL Vertical/Short Takeoff and Landing

VHF Very High Frequency

VMA Marine Attack Squadron

VMAQ Marine Tactical Electronic 

Warfare Squadron

VMFA Marine Fighter/Attack Squadron

VMFA(AW) Marine All Weather 

Fighter/Attack Squadron

VMGR Marine Aerial Refuel and 

Transport Squadron

VMM Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron

VMMT Marine Medium Tiltrotor 

Training Squadron

VMU Marine Unmanned 

Aerial Vehicle Squadron

VSW Very Shallow Water

VTOL Vertical Takeoff and Landing

WAN Wide Area Network

WHNS Wartime Host Nation Support

WMD Weapons of Mass Destruction

WNW Wideband Networking Waveform

WPN Weapons Procurement Navy

WRMR War Reserve Munitions 

Requirement

WTI Weapons and Tactics Instructor

WWMCCS Worldwide Military 

Command and Control System
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