MCO 3120.9 POC 28 Mar 94 MARINE CORPS ORDER 3120.9 From: Commandant of the Marine Corps To: Distribution List Subj: POLICY FOR MARINE EXPEDITIONARY UNIT (SPECIAL OPERATIONS CAPABLE) (MEU(SOC)) Ref: (a) MCO P3900.15 (b) Joint Pub 3-0, Doctrine For Joint Operations (c) Section 5063, Title 10, U.S. Code (d) MCO 3120.8A (e) Navy-Marine Corps White Paper "...From The Sea" (Sep 92) (f) Joint Pub 3-02, Joint Doctrine for Amphibious Operations 1. Purpose. To issue Marine Corps policy regarding the MEU(SOC) program and certification process, and to amplify the maritime special operations capabilities required of a MEU(SOC). 2. Cancellation. MCO P3000.16. 3. Intent. This policy guides the development of Marine Corps concepts, requirements, doctrine and training programs in accordance with reference (a). It defines the certification process, and assists joint force commanders in integrating the complementary capabilities of assigned forces per reference (b). 4. Background a. Reference (c) directs the CMC to organize, train and equip Marine forces of combined arms for service with the fleet. Reference (d) establishes the Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) as the operational implementation of this mandate. b. In 1983, the Secretary of Defense directed each military Service and defense agency to review their existing special operations capabilities and develop a plan for achieving the level of special operations capability required to combat both current and future low intensity conflicts and terrorist threats. In response, the Marine Corps instituted an aggressive SOC training program to optimize the inherent capability of MEU's to conduct selected maritime special operations. c. Progressive improvement in individual and unit skills attained through enhanced training and the addition of specialized equipment allow a MEU to execute a full range of conventional and selected maritime special operations missions. MCO 3120.9 28 Mar 94 This is accomplished by means of a dedicated and intensive pre-deployment training program of about 26 weeks that emphasizes personnel stabilization coupled with focused, standardized and integrated Amphibious Ready Group (ARG)/MEU training. MEUs which have undergone this enhanced training program have been provided special equipment, and have successfully completed a thorough evaluation/certification under the cognizance of the Force Commander shall be designated as SOC. The primary goal for all MEU's shall be certification and designation as SOC prior to deployment. d. The primary objective of the MEU(SOC) program is to provide the theater CINC's with an effective means of dealing with the uncertainties of future threats, providing a forward deployed unit that is inherently balanced, sustainable, flexible, responsive, expandable and credible. Reference (e) articulates the vision of MAGTFs participating in naval expeditionary forces operating forward from the sea as expeditionary forces of combined arms, task-organized, equipped and trained to conduct forward presence and crisis response missions while operating in the littoral areas of the world. 5. Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) a. Scope. This Order applies to MEUs formed from the command elements resident in U. S. Marine Forces Atlantic (MARFORLANT) (22d, 24th and 26th MEUs) and U. S. Marine Forces Pacific (MARFORPAC) (11th, 13th, 15th and 31st MEUs). Where appropriate, Force Commanders may apply the policies stated in this Order to other MEUs formed for specific missions (i.e., exercises OCEAN VENTURE, COBRA GOLD, etc). b. Organization. The forward deployed MEU(SOC) is uniquely organized and equipped to provide the naval or joint force commander with a rapidly deployable, sea-based capability with 15 days of self-sustainment optimized for forward presence and crisis response missions. The MEU(SOC) may also serve as an enabler for larger Marine forces (or possibly joint/combined forces) in the event the situation or mission requires additional capabilities and resources. The MEU is comprised of a command element (CE); a reinforced infantry battalion as the ground combat element (GCE); a reinforced helicopter squadron as the aviation combat element (ACE); and a combat service support element (CSSE) designated the MEU Service Support Group (MSSG). Figure (1) illustrates the notional task organization of a MEU. (1) The CE of the MEU(SOC) is a permanently established organization augmented to provide the command and control (C2) functions and the command, control, communications, computers and intelligence systems (C4I) necessary for effective planning and execution of all operations. In addition to permanently assigned Marines, the MEU CE is augmented with detachments for deep reconnaissance, fire support, intelligence, electronic warfare, and communications. (2) The GCE is normally structured around a reinforced infantry battalion that forms a battalion landing team (BLT). Specific reinforcements will vary, but generally include artillery, reconnaissance, light armor and/or tanks, anti-armor, amphibious assault vehicles, and combat engineer detachments. (3) The ACE is centered around a reinforced helicopter squadron that includes AV-8B Harrier attack aircraft. When not assigned to the afloat MEU, due to ship constraints (LPH) or Personnel Tempo (PERSTEMPO) considerations, the AV-8Bs will be shore based in a standby status. Other embarked aviation support detachments and a shore based C-130 detachment provide all functions of Marine Aviation necessary to execute MEU(SOC) missions. (4) The CSSE, of the MEU Service Support Group (MSSG) provides the full range of combat service support including supply, maintenance, transportation, deliberate engineering, medical and dental, automated information processing, utilities, landing support (port/airfield support operations), disbursing, legal, and postal services and 15 days of sustainability (Class I, II, III(B), IV, V, VIII, IX) necessary to support MEU(SOC) assigned missions. c. Maritime Special Purpose Force (MSPF). The MSPF is a unique task-organization drawn from the MEU major subordinate elements. The MSPF provides the enhanced operational capability to complement or enable conventional operations or to execute selected maritime special missions. The MSPF cannot operate independently of its parent MEU. It relies on the MEU for logistics, intelligence, communications, transportation and MCO 3120.9 28 Mar 94 supporting fires. Accordingly, command of the MSPF must remain under the control of the MEU commander. The MSPF is organized and trained to be rapidly tailored to the specific mission. It is notionally composed of a command element; a covering element consisting of one or more reinforced rifle companies; an assault element organized to conduct on-scene command, assault, security, and support functions; a reconnaissance and surveillance (R&S) element organized to conduct reconnaissance and surveillance, sniper control and support, counter-intelligence, human and signal intelligence, and electronic warfare; and an aviation support element to provide assault support, and close air support (CAS). The MSPF does not duplicate dedicated Special Operations Forces (SOF) capabilities. d. Missions of a MEU(SOC). The MEU(SOC) is a self-sustained, amphibious, combined arms air-ground task force capable of conventional and selected maritime special operations of limited- duration in support of a Combatant commander. The following are missions for which the MEU(SOC) may accept taskings: (1) Amphibious raids (2) Non-Combatant Evacuation Operations (NEO) (3) Security Operations (4) Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel (TRAP) (5) Direct Action (6) Humanitarian/Civic Assistance e. Capabilities. Inherent in forward presence and crisis response missions are the CINCs requirements to conduct amphibious operations, operations to enable the introduction of follow-on forces (either MEF and/or joint/combined forces), and special maritime operations. The amphibious raid is the primary focus of the deployed MEU. Through enhanced training and certification, MEUs will, upon deployment, be proficient in time-sensitive planning, capable of rapid response, and able to employ the following conventional and special operations capabilities at night, under adverse weather conditions, from over the horizon, under emission control (EMCON), by surface and/or air. (1) Conventional Capabilities (a) Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C4I). C4I is the integration of communications, MCO 3120.9 28 Mar 94 computers and intelligence technologies and procedures into a functional, cohesive system to support the commander. C4I permits entry into national, theater, joint and combined systems to support all-source intelligence fusion, and to permit MEU rapid planning, decision, dissemination and execution. C4I is distinct from command and control (C2) in that C4I is a critical enabler for C2. (b) Battle Area Ingress/Egress. The capability to enter and exit a battle area. (c) Locate and Fix The Enemy. The capability to locate and fix the enemy, involving finding and identifying enemy forces, maintaining surveillance once located, assessing the capabilities and intentions, and reporting these findings. (d) Engage The Enemy. The capability to engage, destroy, or capture the enemy in a rural or urban setting, in hostile environments, with minimized/controlled collateral damage. (e) Rapid Staff Planning. The capability to rapidly plan and be prepared to commence execution of operations within six (6) hours of receipt of the warning order/alert order. Commencement of operations is signified by the launch of forces by air and/or surface means. This may range from the insertion of reconnaissance and surveillance assets in support of the mission to the actual launch of an assault force. Rapid staff planning is a key to MEU(SOC)s overall operational success. (f) Joint Force Interoperability. The MEU will normally be committed in conjunction with joint or combined task force (J/CTF) operations (references (b) and (e)). Joint/combined force interoperability is a shared responsibility of the force commander and subordinate elements. Interoperability depends on compatible C4I equipment and standardized procedures while embracing common terminology and techniques. The objective is a thorough understanding of mutual C2 procedures, capabilities, and limitations developed through continual participation in joint and combined exercises. (g) Amphibious Raids. The capability to conduct amphibious raids via air and/or surface means from extended ranges in order to inflict loss or damage upon opposing forces, create diversions, capture and/or evacuate individuals and material by swift incursion into an objective area followed by a planned withdrawal. The amphibious raid is the primary operational focus for the forward-operating MEU(SOC)s. MCO 3120.9 28 Mar 94 (h) Non-combatant Evacuation Operations (NEO). The capability to conduct NEO by evacuating and protecting noncombatants in either a permissive or non-permissive environment. This capability includes the requirement to provide a security force, evacuation control center, recovery force, medical support, and transportation of evacuees. (i) Show of Force Operations. The capability to engage in show of force operations, to include amphibious demonstrations, presence of forces, or flyovers in support of U.S. interests. (j) Reinforcement Operations. The capability to reinforce U.S. (or designated Allied/friendly) forces by helicopter and/or surface means. This includes the capability to conduct relief-in-place or a passage of lines. (k) Security Operations. The capability to conduct security operations to protect U.S. (or designated Allied/ friendly nation) property and noncombatants. Forward-operating MEU(SOC)s will be capable of establishing an integrated local security perimeter, screening for explosive devices, and providing personal protection to designated individuals. (l) Joint/Combined Training/Instruction Team. The capability to provide training and assistance to foreign military forces permitted by U.S. law. (m) Humanitarian and Civic Assistance. To provide services such as medical and dental care, minor construction repair to civilian facilities, temporary assistance to local government, and assistance to counter the devastation caused by a manmade or natural disaster. (n) Tactical Deception Operations. The capability to design and implement tactical deception operations plans in order to deceive the enemy through electronic means, feints, demonstrations, and ruses which cause the enemy to react or fail to react in a manner which assists in the accomplishment of the overall mission. (o) Fire Support Control. The capability to control and coordinate naval surface fire, air support and ground fire support coordination measures for U.S. or designated Allied/friendly forces. (p) Counterintelligence Operations. The capability to conduct counterintelligence and human intelligence operations MCO 3120.9 28 Mar 94 that protect the MEU(SOC) against espionage, sabotage, terrorism, and subversion by developing and providing information the commander can use to undertake countermeasures to protect his resources. (q) Initial Terminal Guidance. The capability to establish and operate navigational, signal, and/or electronic devices for guiding helicopter and surface waves from a designated point to a landing zone or beach. (r) Signal Intelligence/Electronic Warfare Operations. The capability to conduct tactical SIGINT, limited ground bases EW, and communications security (COMSEC) monitoring and analysis in direct support of the MAGTF. This is accomplished by employing organic collection and direction finding (DF) equipment as well as through connectivity to national and theater SIGINT/EW assets. (s) Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT). The capability to conduct military operations in a built-up area. (t) Airfield/Ports/Other Key Facilities Seizure. The capability to secure an airfield, port, or other key facilities in order to support MAGTF missions or to receive follow-on forces. (2) Special Operations Capabilities. The Marine Corps does not possess Special Operations Forces (SOF). Forward-operating MEU(SOC)s receive enhanced training and are specially equipped and organized to provide selected maritime special purpose capabilities complementary to, and in support of, special operations. In addition to the conventional capabilities noted above, MEU(SOC)s will, upon deployment, possess the following skills and capabilities: (a) Close Quarters Battle (CQB). The capability to conduct direct action missions, employing close quarter battle combat and dynamic assault tactics and techniques. (b) Specialized Demolition Operations. The capability to conduct specialized breaching; to employ specialized demolitions in support of other special operations. This includes an explosive entry capability to support close quarters battle/combat. (c) Clandestine Reconnaissance and Surveillance. The capability to conduct clandestine reconnaissance and surveillance through entry into an objective area by air, surface, or subsurface means in order to perform information MCO 3120.9 28 Mar 94 collection, target acquisition, and other intelligence collection tasks. (d) Maritime Interdiction Operations (MIO). The capability to conduct MIO in support of Vessel Boarding, Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations during day or night on a cooperative, uncooperative, or hostile contact of interest. (e) Gas and Oil Platform Operations (GOPLAT). The capability to conduct seizure and/or destruction of offshore gas and oil platforms. (f) Clandestine Recovery Operations. The capability to conduct clandestine extraction of personnel or sensitive items from enemy controlled areas. (g) Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and/or Personnel (TRAP). The capability to conduct overland recovery of downed aircraft and personnel, aircraft sanitization, and provide advanced trauma-life support in a benign or hostile environment. (h) In-Extremis Hostage Recovery (IHR). The capability to conduct recovery operations during an in-extremis situation by means of an emergency extraction of hostages and/or sensitive items from a non-permissive environment and expeditiously transport them to a designated safe haven. The IHR capability will only be employed when directed by appropriate authority and when dedicated national assets are unavailable. Emphasis is placed on isolation, containment, employment of reconnaissance assets, and preparation for turnover of the crisis site when/if national assets arrive. (i) Direct Action. The capability to conduct raid, ambush, or direct assault tactics; conduct standoff attacks by fire from air, ground, or maritime platforms; and provide terminal guidance for precision-guided munitions. f. MEU(SOC) Training Program. To attain the previously mentioned capabilities, the MEU participates in an aggressive predeployment MEU(SOC) training program of about 26 weeks which is focused and standardized, and follows a progressive building block approach to training. This training program integrates the Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) and MEU, as well as other designated naval forces (i.e., CVBGs) to optimize their capabilities. Early personnel stabilization, the progressive improvement of individual and unit skills through enhanced training,and incremental evaluations allow the MEU(SOC) to execute the full range of capabilities. This program builds on baseline capabilities, culminating in a certification exercise MCO 3120.9 28 Mar 94 (Special Operations Capable Exercise (SOCEX)) that evaluates the MEU's warfighting, general purpose expeditionary, and maritime special operations capabilities, and the capabilities of Navy forces to support these operations. g. Certification Process. This process is continuous in nature and encompasses training events/evaluations throughout the entire predeployment training program. Only MEUs which have undergone the SOC training program, have demonstrated proficiency in the skills and capabilities contained in paragraph 5e, of this Order, and have successfully completed the SOCEX, shall be certified and designated as "MEU(SOC)". All MEU(SOC)s shall be fully capable of concurrently executing their general purpose expeditionary missions as well as special operations tasks, per this Order. The SOCEX should include sufficient events, representative of the entire range of conventional and selected maritime special operations capabilities resident within the ARG/MEU. All evaluations will emphasize events which require the MEU to demonstrate the capability to conduct operations at night. 6. Command Relationships. Traditionally, forward-operating MEUs have deployed (and been employed) under the Commander, Amphibious Task Force/Commander Landing Force (CATF/CLF) command relationship (reference (f)). The CATF/CLF relationship remains the foundation of amphibious command relationships. While the emerging requirements of Naval Expeditionary Forces (NEF) (reference (e)) and joint force operations (reference (b)) may foreshadow significant changes in the traditional CATF/CLF configuration, the basic precepts of the CATF/CLF relationship - co-equality during planning and immediate subordination during execution, to the overall naval force commander (NEF/JTG/CTF) - remain essential to the successful projection of power from the sea. 7. Action a. Headquarters, Marine Corps will accomplish the following: (1) Deputy Chief of Staff Plans, Policies and Operations (DC/S PP&O). Act as service coordinator for all service policy and serve as the focal point at HQMC for joint and interagency policy matters. (2) Deputy Chief of Staff Aviation (DC/S Aviation). Coordinate all Marine Corps aviation programs and plans in support of the MEU(SOC) program. MCO 3120. 28 Mar 94 (3) Deputy Chief of Staff Manpower and Reserve Affairs (DC/S M&RA). Assign Marines to organizations of MARFORLANT and MARFORPAC by rank, quantity, and MOS in order to properly staff the MEU. When practical, assignments will be in accordance with the following goals: (a) Assign key personnel to the MEU Command Element so that they are available for duty to the MEU no later than 240 days prior to deployment. Command Element key personnel are as follows: Commanding Officer, Executive Officer, Personnel Officer, Intelligence Officer, Operations Officer, Logistics Officer, Communications Officer, and Sergeant Major. (b) Ensure key personnel are available for duty to Victor coded Monitored Command Codes (MCCs) that support the MEU no later than 210 days prior to embarkation. These key personnel include the Battalion and Squadron Commanders and the Battalion and Squadron company grade officers. (c) Ensure all MCCs that support the MEU are provided sufficient personnel to meet staffing requirements for the MEU no later than 180 days prior to embarkation. Regardless of requirements, MCCs will not normally be staffed above staffing goal. b. Director, Marine Corps Intelligence Activity (MCIA). Coordinate predeployment intelligence support to the MEU(SOC) Program to include providing intelligence to support MARCORSYSCOM's research, development and acquisition of MEU(SOC) weapons and equipment. c. Commanding General, Marine Corps Combat Development Command (MCCDC). (1) Coordinate the development of concepts, requirements, doctrine, organizational structure, and training issues. (2) Develop and publish Marine Corps training policy and standards. (3) Serve as the Marine Corps sponsor for training, training facility support, and validation of requirements for equipment. (4) Monitor training to ensure compliance with established Marine Corps standards. (5) Coordinate external school, joint and interagency training support for predeployment training. MCO 3120.9 28 Mar 94 d. Commander, Marine Corps Systems Command (COMMARCORSYSCOM). (1) Serve as the Marine Corps agent for research, development, and acquisition of all weapons systems and equipment in support of the program. (2) Coordinate the development and monitor the implementation of an integrated logistic support system to support unique equipment. e. Commander, U. S. Marine Forces, Atlantic (COMMARFORLANT) and Commander, U. S. Marine Forces, Pacific (COMMARFORPAC). (1) Provide unified combatant commanders with organized, trained, and equipped forces in accordance with this Order. (2) Coordinate the evaluation and certification of MEUs as special operations capable prior to deployment. (3) Coordinate with CG, MCCDC for validation of concepts, doctrine, training standards, and equipment to support MEU(SOC)s. f. Commanding Generals of the Fleet Marine Forces, and supporting establishment commands, and commanders of separate organizations not commanded by a General officer will comply with the policy established by this Order. 8. Reserve Applicability. This Order is applicable to the Marine Corps Reserve. W. E. BOOMER Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps DISTRIBUTION: PCN 10203170400 Copy to: Request the distribution of this order be the same as 3120.8A DISTRIBUTION: PCN 10203170300 Copy to: 7000110 (55) 7000173 (50) 8145005 (2) 7000099,144/8145001 (1) CNO{CINCUSACOM/USCINCPAC/USCINCEUR/USCINCSOUTH/ USCINCCENT/USCINCSOC/USCINCTRANS/CINCLANTFLT/ CINCPACFLT/CINCUSNAVEUR/COMUSNAVCENT/COMSECONDFLT/ COMTHIRDFLT/COMSIXTHFLT/COMSEVENTHFLT/COMNAVSURFLANT/ COMNAVSURFPAC (1)}