Expeditionary Strike Group

Definition/Scope: The Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) centers on the flexibility and readiness of a combined expeditionary unit and an amphibious readiness group (ARG). The total ESG provides operational freedom and expanded warfare capabilities, not only by land with embarked Marines, but at sea, as well. The exact make-up of an Expeditionary Strike Group is in the process of being defined, but currently (as of Oct 2010) consists of: Amphibious Assault Ship, Amphibious Transport Dock, Dock Landing Ship, Guided Missile Cruiser, Frigate, Attack Submarine, Marine Expeditionary Unit, AV-8B Harrier II, CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters, CH-46D Sea Knight helicopters, and AH-1W Super Cobra helicopters. The Expeditionary strike group is a flexible strike group that can operate in the littorals or open-ocean. The expeditionary strike group provides the combatant commander or fleet commander a versatile sea-based operational force for a variety of missions in maritime, littoral, and inland environments. Expeditionary strike group capabilities support initial crisis response missions and may be undertaken in limited nonpermissive environments characterized by multiple threats including, but not limited to, anti-ship missiles, ballistic missiles, fighter/attack aircraft, electromagnetic jammers, cruise missile equipped surface combatants, submarines (nuclear and diesel), and terrorist threats.

Acronym:

ESG

Broader Terms:

Expeditionary Strike Force
US Marine Corps
US Navy

Narrower Terms:

AH-1W Super Cobra
attack submarine
CH-46D Sea Knight
CH-53E Super Stallion
frigate
guided missile cruiser
Marine Expeditionary Unit

Related Terms:

Defense Logistics Agency Distribution Yokosuka