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support forces under the direction and control of a single
commander.  MAGTFs can operate as an independent unit or single-
Service force or as part of a joint or combined task force.
MAGTFs deploy to an area of operations by sealift, airlift, or
both.

b.   Flexibility.  MAGTFs are the most flexible combined arms
teams available to the nation.   Capabilities within the MAGTF may
range from bayonet-toting infantrymen to nuclear-capable air-
craft.   Ground, air, and combat service support elements of the
MAGTF can be specifically tailored in rapid fashion to meet a
particular crisis.   Factors affecting such tailoring may include
mission assigned the MAGTF, number and nature of enemy forces
involved, deployment means, probable duration of operations, and
host nation support available.   The normal organization of Marine
forces for training and standing MAGTF staffs allow quick forma-
tion of a combined arms team which is highly capable.   Tailoring
of the MAGTF might include some or all of the following:

   (1)  Adding more tanks, artillery, engineers, infantry
battalions, etc. to the ground combat element.

   (2)  Adding more fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, or air
defense missiles to the aviation combat element.

   (3)  Adding more repair, maintenance, or resupply assets to the
combat service support element.

   (4)  Adding more C31 capabilities to~the command element.

C.   Types of MAGTFs.  MAGTFs vary in increasing size from the
Marine expeditionary unit (MEU) to the Marine expeditionary force
(MEF).   All MAGTFs have an amphibious capability.  The Marine
expeditionary brigade (MEB)--the mid-sized MAGTF--may also deploy
by strategic airlift to marry up with equipment and supplies
prepositioned aboard three squadrons of maritime prepositioning
ships  (MPS) or ashore in Norway.  In addition, some MAGTFs
receive highly specialized training which provides them with
unique capabilities.   An example of this is the Marine
expeditionary unit (special operations capable)  or MEU(SOC).

a.   Deployment.   All Fleet Marine Force (FMF) Marines are under
the operational control of a Fleet CINC, in most cases CINCLANT-
FLT or CINCPACFLT except for deployments into the Mediterranean.
Since these FMF Marines comprise the MAGTFs ultimately deployed
to conduct military operations their readiness for deployment is
consistently high.   In many cases, MAGTFs can be deployed in the
earliest stages of a crisis and act as a deterrent to escalation
and as a significant show of force that clearly demonstrates U.S.
resolve.   The unique capability of MAGTFs to stay aboard amphib-
ious shipping and maintain a presence in international waters
without going ashore or requiring basing on foreign soil make

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