Fleet Marine Force

Fleet Marine Force Enlisted Warfare Specialist Device

Fleet Marine Force (FMF) is a combined arms and service branch of the United States Navy and United States Marine Corps that specializes in amphibious operations and expeditionary warfare. The FMF is designed to enable the rapid deployment of a highly mobile and flexible force that can conduct operations from the sea, utilizing the Navy's mobility and the Marine Corps' expeditionary capabilities. This force is composed of ground, air, and logistics components, making it capable of executing a wide range of military operations.

History

The concept of the Fleet Marine Force was officially established in 1933, though the integration of Marine Corps units with naval fleets dates back to the early 20th century. The creation of the FMF was driven by the need for specialized units that could conduct amphibious assaults, a capability that became increasingly important with the advent of World War II. During the war, FMF units played crucial roles in major battles across the Pacific Theater, including operations in Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa.

Organization

The Fleet Marine Force is divided into two main components: the Atlantic Fleet Marine Force (FMFLANT) and the Pacific Fleet Marine Force (FMFPAC). Each is composed of a number of Marine Expeditionary Forces (MEFs), which are the principal warfighting organizations of the FMF. A MEF is a combined-arms force that includes ground combat, aviation combat, and logistics combat elements.

Ground Combat Element (GCE)

The GCE consists of infantry units, artillery, reconnaissance units, and tanks. These forces are capable of conducting a wide range of operations, from amphibious assaults to sustained ground combat.

Aviation Combat Element (ACE)

The ACE provides the FMF with a range of air capabilities, including close air support, air reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and control of aircraft and missiles. It is composed of fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and tiltrotor aircraft.

Logistics Combat Element (LCE)

The LCE provides logistical support to the FMF, ensuring that forces in the field have the necessary supplies, equipment, and services. This includes transportation, engineering support, medical services, and material handling.

Roles and Missions

The primary mission of the Fleet Marine Force is to conduct amphibious operations, but its capabilities extend to a wide range of military operations, including power projection, forward naval presence, crisis response, and humanitarian assistance. The FMF is designed to be rapidly deployable, self-sustaining, and capable of operating in environments ranging from major combat operations to peacekeeping missions.

Training and Doctrine

Training for the Fleet Marine Force emphasizes amphibious warfare, combined arms operations, and expeditionary warfare doctrine. The Marine Corps maintains several training centers and schools dedicated to preparing FMF units for their unique roles, including the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.

Future Developments

The Fleet Marine Force continues to evolve in response to changing global threats and military technologies. Recent strategic documents have emphasized the importance of the FMF in countering near-peer adversaries and enhancing the United States' ability to project power in contested environments. This includes investments in advanced weapons systems, unmanned systems, and cyber warfare capabilities.