Abstract

This report examines the potential long-term effects of the United States Marine Corps (USMC) giving up its artillery units. Artillery has traditionally been a vital component of Marine Corps combat capabilities, providing indirect fire support to infantry units. Evaluating the consequences of such a strategic shift requires an analysis of the USMC's historical use of artillery, the contemporary security landscape, and the implications for future Marine Corps operations.

1. Introduction

The decision to relinquish artillery units within the USMC represents a significant shift in the Marine Corps' force structure and operational capabilities. This report aims to assess the potential long-term effects of this decision, both in terms of operational effectiveness and broader strategic considerations.

Abstract

The development of the United States' 6th generation fighter represents a significant milestone in military aviation. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the US 6th generation fighter program, including its objectives, anticipated capabilities, technological advancements, and the potential implications for future air warfare and national security.

1. Introduction

The United States' pursuit of a 6th generation fighter aircraft is driven by the need to maintain air superiority in an increasingly complex and contested global environment. The 6th generation fighter is expected to build upon the capabilities of existing 5th generation aircraft like the F-35 and F-22, while incorporating cutting-edge technologies.

The question of whether the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) needs fighter jets is a matter of military strategy, budgetary considerations, and operational requirements. The USMC currently operates a fleet of fighter jets, primarily the F-18 Hornet and the more modern F-35B Lightning II. Here are some key factors to consider when assessing the need for fighter jets within the USMC:

1. Amphibious Operations: The USMC's primary mission is to provide power projection from the sea. Fighter jets, especially the F-35B, which can operate from amphibious assault ships, play a crucial role in providing air support and air superiority during amphibious operations.

2. Close Air Support (CAS): Fighter jets are vital for providing CAS to ground forces. The USMC often operates in close proximity to ground troops, and having their own fighter jets ensures rapid response and coordination with ground units.

Russia has long been a prominent player in the field of military aviation. Its history is steeped in aviation milestones, from the pioneering days of the Soviet Union to its present-day status as a significant global military aviation force. This article explores the evolving Russian military aviation threat, encompassing its formidable aircraft fleet, technological advancements, and the implications for regional and international security.

Russian Military Aviation Arsenal

Russia's military aviation capabilities have been shaped by decades of investment and development:

1. Advanced Fighter Aircraft: Russia's Sukhoi Su-27 and Su-35 fighter jets are renowned for their agility, speed, and combat capabilities. The fifth-generation Su-57 stealth fighter represents a technological leap in air superiority.

By Webmaster

Oppose Tri-Care For Life new Enrollment Fees and Co-pays

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) recently testified before the Senate Armed Services Personnel Subcommittee (SASC-P) on reducing the Department of Defense compensation costs. In its written testimony CBO urged Congress to enact a new TRICARE for Life (TFL) annual enrollment fee of $575 for individual coverage or $1,150 for family coverage. TFL beneficiaries would also be required to pay the first $850 and 50 percent of the next $7,650 in cost annually. Currently, TFL beneficiaries do not pay an annual enrollment fee. Further CBO recommends increasing retirees TRICARE Prime annual enrollment fee from the current $352 for the individual and $704 for family to $650 and $1300 respectively. TRICARE Select beneficiaries would pay an annual enrollment fee of $485 for individual coverage and $970 for a family.

Voice your opposition now to your legislators:

 by Stan Prince

On June 5th 1972, after the nice send off the War Protesters gave us as we exited Norfolk Harbor, my Squadron VMFA-333 deployed aboard the USS America (CVA-66) for 293 days 242 of which were at Sea. We, in total, completed 7 Line Periods on Yankee Station off the coast of North Vietnam.

Besides from my duties as an AO (Aviation Ordnance) of loading our planes with weaponry and maintaining the weapon systems I was also attached to Ship’s Company for arming aircraft on the catapults and dearming aircraft on the bow once they came back from their mission.

 By Stan Prince

A VF-74 RIO was killed while attempting a night trap aboard the USS America on Yankee Station. I was up forward ready to disarm his plane. He made a hard landing and FOD'ed an engine and tried climbing his F4 for a go-around. But they ejected out into the night. I picked up his chute just before he plowed into the bow. When my flashlight caught his face he looked at me helplessly as I did him right before his death.

I sometimes wake up at night with his face staring at me for help and there is nothing that can be done. If he had only been ten feet higher I think we could have saved him.

By Stan Prince

March 24, 1973 while manning the rails aboard the USS America we tied up at Pier 12 in Norfolk. Marching down the gang plank I took my first step on US soil in over 10 months.

There were crowds of people looking for their loved one as they disembarked the Ship. Many reuniting with families, many Sailors seeing their newborn daughter or son for the first time. We marched to our awaiting buses and made our way to the airport to our Marine C -130 and our short flight Home to MCAS Beaufort SC. There we had our HOMECOMING and all the pomp and circumstance the Corps is known for.