Evolving the Expeditionary Fire Support System
Abstract
The lack of a ground-based fire support asset to support Marine Corps forces during expeditionary operations creates a dangerous gap in the capabilities of a combined arms force. Marine Corps concepts emphasize the development and acquisition of long-range precision fire support assets. While the ability to project power into the contested area of a potential adversary is operationally and strategically important, if Marines lack the firepower needed to seize the advanced bases to position these assets, then the long-range capabilities are irrelevant. Since the creation of the Fleet Marine Force following World War I, the Marines Corps has been a combined arms force, and the infantry-artillery team, in particular, has been developed around the ability for artillery to provide tactical, indirect fire in support of the ground scheme of maneuver. Without a fire support system capable of following the maneuver force into action, there is a risk of leaving Marines without the support needed to accomplish the mission. A lightweight self-propelled howitzer, to augment organic mortar systems, offensive air support, and naval surface fire support, is a critical capability that the Marine Corps as a middleweight combined arms force will need in any future conflict that may arise.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 25, 2018
- Accession Number
- AD1177046
Entities
People
- Peter L. Hackett
Organizations
- Marine Corps University