Center for Army Lessons Learned

Marine Expeditionary Unit

Definition/Scope: (JP 1-02) A Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) unit that is constructed around an infantry battalion reinforced, a helicopter squadron reinforced, and a task-organized combat service support element. It normally fulfills Marine Corps forward sea-based deployment requirements. The Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) provides an immediate reaction capability for crisis response and is capable of limited combat operations. Selective, timely and credible commitment of air-ground units have brought stability to regions and sent signals world-wide to aggressors that the United States is not only willing to defend its interests, but able to do so with a significantly powerful force of extremely short notice. The MEU is the smallest of the MAGTFs. Together, with its Navy brethren they serve as the Nation's forward deployed, quick response team, capable of accomplishing numerous missions around the globe. The MEU, Commanded by a Marine Colonel, is comprised of approximately 2,200 Marines and Sailors embarked aboard three or four amphibious ships. These ships are manned by another 2100-2300 Marines / Sailors and as a group are designated as an Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) commanded by a senior Navy Captain, who bears the title of Commodore. Joined together, the MEU and PHIBRON are designated as an Amphibious Ready Group (ARG). The 31st MEU, working with PHIBRON 11 and the USS Essex ARG, comprise one such Navy/Marine team.

Acronym:

MEU

Broader Terms:

Expeditionary Strike Group
Forward Deployed Naval Force
Marine Air-Ground Task Force
Marine Expeditionary Force
US Marine Corps

Narrower Terms:

11th Marine Expeditionary Unit
11th MEU
13th MEU
15th MEU
22nd MEU
24th MEU
26th MEU
Quick Reaction Force

Related Terms:

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