USMC adapts to new strategic realities caused by Chinese actions and ambitions
MV-22B Ospreys are a critical platform to the USMC’s concept of conducting Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations in the Indo-Pacific region. (Photo: Gordon Arthur)
Returning to its roots in many senses, the USMC is working hard to transition to expeditionary operations in the Western Pacific region.
Exercise Talisman Sabre 2023 provided plentiful evidence that the USMC is transforming to better counter assertive Chinese actions in the Indo-Pacific region.
Even if belatedly, the US was among the first militaries to adopt new tactics and strategies to deter the PLA if it attempts to use force against Taiwan or other regional neighbours. The USMC response falls under Force Design 2030, which is now being implemented.
The Talisman Sabre 2023 amphibious force comprised 17,000+ personnel and 27 vessels, primarily from Australia, Japan, South Korea and the US. The USMC contributed the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), the only permanently
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
![High tension in the High North – a wake-up call for NATO’s future Arctic defence efforts?]()
High tension in the High North – a wake-up call for NATO’s future Arctic defence efforts?
Any potential ‘Arctic Sentry’ mission would be months in the planning, but with tensions high in the region given the US’s push for Greenland, NATO countries will need to continue to emphasise their commitment to the region, analysts have said.
-
![Venezuela prepares personnel and equipment for a potential second US attack]()
Venezuela prepares personnel and equipment for a potential second US attack
Defence Minister Gen Vladimir Padrino López has declared that the Venezuelan armed forces “will continue to employ all its available capabilities for military defence”.
-
![As the new year starts, the UK defence spending delay continues]()
As the new year starts, the UK defence spending delay continues
The UK’s defence spending commitments remain uncertain as the government’s Defence Investment Plan, which had been due by the end of 2025, is yet to be published.
-
![How might European countries look to tackle drone incursions?]()
How might European countries look to tackle drone incursions?
Disruption of infrastructure in Europe, whether by cyberattack, physical damage to pipelines or uncrewed aerial vehicles flying over major airports, as has happened more recently, is on the rise. What is the most effective way of countering the aerial aspect of this not-so-open warfare?
-
![Taiwan approved for $11 billion weapon purchase from US]()
Taiwan approved for $11 billion weapon purchase from US
The US State Department’s approval of a multi-billion-dollar sale of weapons to Taiwan includes tactical mission networks equipment, uncrewed aerial systems, artillery rocket systems and self-propelled howitzers as well as anti-tank guided missiles.
-
![Ireland spells out $2.3 billion shopping list in five-year defence spending plan]()
Ireland spells out $2.3 billion shopping list in five-year defence spending plan
Ireland’s multi-annual investment in capital defence spending is set to rise from €300m in 2026 to €360m in 2029–2030 with major upgrades across land, air, maritime and cyber domains.
