Reconaissance
Abstract
Even with the evolution of today's technology and the increasing reliance on joint operations within the U.S. military, there is still relevance in the Marine Corps for maintaining its Force Reconnaissance capability. However, there must be a willingness to accept new roles and responsibilities on the part of reconnaissance Marines and traditional infantry commanders at the MEF and Division levels. Force Reconnaissance Commanders must be willing to conduct missions in support of units subordinate to the MEF and be willing to relinquish some operational control over them when necessary. Simultaneously, MAGTF commanders must see a relevant need to employ Force Reconnaissance when there are numerous "less risky" options available. The Marine Corps in turn must acquire the aviation platforms necessary to support the mission when called for. Force Reconnaissance is a valuable asset that will continue to perform a critical function for the MEF/MAGTF Commander. By making an effort to acquire the aviation platforms necessary to perform deep reconnaissance missions, the Marine Corps will truly be a self-sustained MAGTF capable of performing the full range of combat missions in support of its ground combat element. Barring such aviation improvements, human intelligence gathering in the deep battle space will be reserved solely for those units with access to Air Force helicopters. Deep ground reconnaissance, the "bread and butter" of Marine Force Reconnaissance, will be a skill the Marine Corps is incapable of supporting.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA506430
Entities
Organizations
- Marine Corps University