A Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) is a self-contained, rapidly deployable force within the United States Marine Corps. It combines a balanced mix of combat, logistical, and support elements to conduct a wide range of operations. MEUs are flexible, scalable, and often among the first responders to crises, making them an essential tool for military and diplomatic objectives worldwide.
Role: Provide leadership and direction for the MEU.
Components:
Command and Control (C2) assets.
Staff officers and specialists for planning and coordination.
Intelligence, communications, and administrative support.
Key Function: Coordinate the efforts of the MEU's other elements and liaise with higher commands or external forces.
Role: The MEU's primary combat force, capable of offensive and defensive ground operations.
Components:
Rifle Companies.
Weapons Companies with heavy machine guns, mortars, and anti-tank weapons.
Reconnaissance Platoons.
Light Armored Reconnaissance (LAR) or artillery attachments.
Key Function: Engage in direct combat, amphibious assaults, raids, and urban warfare.
Role: Provide air support for the MEU, including close air support, transport, and reconnaissance.
Components:
Rotary-wing aircraft (e.g., UH-1Y Hueys, AH-1Z Vipers).
UAVs for intelligence and surveillance.
Ground-based aviation support and maintenance units.
Key Function: Support mobility, deliver firepower, and enhance situational awareness.
Role: Supply, maintain, and sustain the MEU's operations.
Components:
Transportation units (vehicles and equipment).
Engineering and construction teams.
Medical and dental services.
Supply chain and repair services.
Key Function: Ensure operational readiness by addressing logistical needs.
Composition:
1 Battalion Commanding Officer
1 Battalion Executive Officer
1 Battalion Sergeant Major
1 Battalion RTO
2 Company Commanding Officers
2 Company Executive Officers
2 Company First Sergeants
2 Company RTOs
4 Platoon Commanding Officers
4 Platoon Sergeants
4 Platoon RTOs
12 Squad Leaders
12 Assistant Squad Leaders
24 Fireteam Leaders
72 Marines
Commanded By: Unit Size:
Composition:
1 Company Commanding Officer
1 Company Executive Officer
1 Company First Sergeant
1 Company RTO
2 Platoon Commanding Officers
2 Platoon Sergeants
2 Platoon RTOs
6 Squad Leaders
6 Assistant Squad Leaders
12 Fireteam Leaders
36 Marines
Commanded By: Unit Size:
Composition:
1 Platoon Commanding Officer
1 Platoon Sergeant
1 Platoon RTO
3 Squad Leaders
3 Assistant Squad Leaders
6 Fireteam Leaders
18 Marines
Commanded By: Unit Size:
Composition:
1 Squad Leader
1 Assistant Squad Leader
2 Fireteam Leaders
6 Marines
Commanded By: Unit Size:
Composition:
1 Fireteam Leader
3 Marines
Commanded By: Unit Size: