MLR IF12200

Background

• On March 23, 2020, the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) announced Force Design 2030, a major initiative planned over the next decade.

• This initiative aims to redesign forces to emphasize naval expeditionary warfare, aligning with the National Defense Strategy focusing on competition with China and Russia.

• As part of this initiative, Marine Littoral Regiments (MLRs) are to be established, aimed at executing various missions within contested maritime spaces.

MLR Missions

The MLR is designed to undertake several critical missions:

• Conduct Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO): This involves deploying naval expeditionary forces with low profiles in temporary locations to facilitate sea denial, sea control, support, and fleet sustainment.

• Conduct strike operations using diverse systems.

• Coordinate air and missile defense operations.

• Support maritime domain awareness to monitor naval and maritime activities.

• Support naval surface warfare operations and information operations to assist in maintaining dominance in maritime areas.

MLR’s Operational Environment

• The security landscape is marked by sophisticated sensors and coercive measures from adversaries like China and Russia, complicating fleet operations.

• MLRs are intended to function as a “Stand-In Force (SIF),” aiding the fleet and joint force in counter-reconnaissance efforts within contested regions, thereby enhancing maritime defense capabilities.

MLR Employment

• According to Colonel Michael R. Kennedy, MLRs will:

  • Deploy on coastlines and chokepoints, using sensors and weapons for surveillance.

  • Operate primarily during the competition phase before conflicts arise, maintaining presence while preparing for potential hostilities.

  • Prevent “grey zone” activities that could escalate to conflict, potentially acting as a trigger for shifting to confrontation.

Proposed MLR Organizational Structure

• The MLR is envisaged to comprise approximately 1,800 to 2,000 personnel and include:

  • Command Element for overall control and direction.

  • Littoral Combat Team featuring an infantry battalion and anti-ship missile battery for versatile site operations.

  • Littoral Anti-Air Battalion for air defense and early warning abilities.

  • Combat Logistics Battalion focused on resupply, medical support, and field maintenance operations.

Selected MLR Systems

Navy-Marine Corps Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS)

• The NMESIS integrates the Naval Strike Missile with the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV), designed for ground-based anti-ship capability.

• Scheduled for delivery to the 3rd MLR by FY2023.

MQ-9 Reaper Unmanned Aerial System (UAS)

• A long-endurance UAS primarily for guidance, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.

• The first eight units were received by the Marines in May 2023.

AN/TPS-80 Ground/Air Task Oriented Radar (G/ATOR)

• A multifunctional radar system to enhance counterfire and air defense missions since its fielding in 2018.

Navy Medium Landing Ship (LSM)

• The LSM aims to bridge the gap between larger amphibious ships and smaller craft, designed for low-signature operations adequate for contested environments and supporting EABO missions.

MLR Establishment

• The 3rd Marine Regiment was redesignated to the 3rd MLR at Marine Corps Base Hawaii on March 3, 2022, expected to achieve operational capabilities between FY2023 and FY2025.

• The 12th Marine Artillery Regiment is anticipated to transition into the 12th MLR by 2025, and planning is underway for the 4th MLR by 2027 with the 4th Marine Regiment's relocation to Guam.

Potential Issues for Congress

MLR Utility Outside the Indo-Pacific

• Questions arise regarding the operational capacity of MLRs beyond the Indo-Pacific, particularly amidst changing global security dynamics post-Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Consideration of NATO support roles must be addressed.

Role of the Navy Medium Landing Ship (LSM)

• The Navy plans to procure up to 35 LSM ships, though the initial procurement has been deferred to FY2025. This raises concerns regarding sufficient numbers and capabilities to meet MLR operational needs and could prompt Congressional scrutiny.

Additional Reading

• CRS Report R47614: U.S. Marine Corps Force Design 2030 Initiative: Background and Issues for Congress.

• CRS Report R47096: U.S. Ground Forces in the Indo-Pacific: Background and Issues for Congress.

• CRS Report R46374: Navy Medium Landing Ship (LSM) Program: Background and Issues for Congress.