By José Carlos Palma*
The United States Marine Corps (USMC) and the Navy share a symbiotic relationship crucial to the nation’s defense strategy. While the Navy maintains control over the seas, the Marines serve as a rapid-response, expeditionary force capable of deploying swiftly to global hotspots. One aspect of this collaboration involves Marines serving aboard Navy vessels, primarily those designed for amphibious operations. This article explores the intricacies of this partnership and the roles Marines play aboard Navy ships.
At the heart of Marine Corps doctrine lies the concept of expeditionary warfare. Marines are trained to swiftly deploy to distant shores, secure beachheads, and establish forward operating bases. To facilitate these operations, Marines rely on the Navy’s amphibious fleet, which consists of ships specifically designed to transport troops, equipment, and supplies. These vessels serve as the launching pad for Marine expeditionary forces, enabling them to project power and respond rapidly to crises worldwide.
Navy amphibious vessels form the backbone of the Marine Corps’ mobility and operational capability. These ships, such as amphibious assault ships (LHDs and LHAs), amphibious transport docks (LPDs), and dock landing ships (LSDs), are equipped to carry Marines, their vehicles, aircraft, and essential supplies. While the Navy operates and maintains these vessels, Marines are embarked onboard, ready to deploy at a moment’s notice. The close collaboration between the Navy and Marine Corps ensures seamless integration during amphibious operations.
While Marines are primarily focused on combat operations ashore, their presence aboard Navy vessels extends beyond mere transportation. Marines onboard serve various roles, including security, force protection, and specialized mission support. While amphibious vessels are their primary domain, Marines may also be deployed on Navy escorts, such as destroyers and cruisers, to provide additional security and support during maritime operations.
Despite their distinct identities, the Navy and Marine Corps operate as a cohesive team, leveraging each other’s strengths to accomplish shared objectives. This collaboration extends to joint training exercises, where sailors and Marines hone their skills in amphibious warfare, ship-to-shore operations, and integrated command and control. Through constant communication and coordination, the Navy and Marine Corps ensure readiness and effectiveness in fulfilling their respective roles.
The presence of Marines aboard Navy vessels underscores the deep interdependence between the two branches of the military. As the nation’s maritime forces, they stand ready to project power, protect national interests, and respond to crises around the globe. Whether conducting amphibious assaults or providing security at sea, Marines play a vital role in the Navy’s mission, contributing to the strength and versatility of the United States’ maritime capabilities.
* Expert in international relations, such as foreign policy, international trade, domestic security, international security, developing nations, domestic security, intelligence, IT Consultant, world history, political consultant, and military analysis.