The USMC Works Its Way Ahead on Force Distribution: The Role of USMC Air

I am working on a series which focuses on the operational emphasis on delivering distributed maritime effects from the USMC and the role of their backbone force — the air element — in working this overall capability.

In addition to considering the modernization of aircraft, I will look at the shaping of a realistic eco system which can leverage air modernization in support of more lethal and sustainable distributed force.

This report is the first installment in this effort.

The featured image is how we put the challenge in terms of force distribution in our 2013 book on Pacific defense.

The triangle highlights force generation and the quadrangle highlights force operation, insertion and distribution.