The Maritime Action Group As a Future Carrier Battle Group Substitute
Abstract
Reduced maritime force assets are experiencing increased tasking throughout Theater littorals. The Theater Commander requires additional force planning options to ensure power projection and sea control are effectively carried out in the event a CVBG is unavailable. The MAG represents a force planning option that may be capable of carrying out CVBG tasking in a theater requiring a 1.0 CVBG presence with minimal risk. In the early 1990's, the MAG was dismissed as a viable replacement for the CVBG in support of power projection and sea control. The author argues that improved joint air capability and coordination, new surface ship munitions, new organic mine countermeasure capabilities, and advances in network centric technology support the argument that the MAG is a practicable replacement in the absence of a CVBG. A MAG consisting of two AEGIS equipped warships and a SEN optimized for offensive mine warfare offers more stealth and mobility than that of a capitol ship and escorts. In addition, it is argued that the MAG is better suited to the littorals where TBMD operations will draw the war fighting arena closer to the adversary. The MAG is not intended to supplant the CVBG, but to act as a viable alternative with minimal risk. It is time to revisit the MAG as a 21st century force alternative for the Theater Commander in the absence of a CVBG.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 08, 2000
- Accession Number
- ADA378747
Entities
People
- Robert F. Moore
Organizations
- Naval War College