Preparations Underway in US Marine Corps for Potential Conflict with China

US and Philippine marines conducted a military exercise on a small island in the South China Sea, near Taiwan. The exercise involved the deployment of troops, equipment, and supplies necessary for a three-day stay on the island. The purpose of the exercise was to prepare the marines for potential conflicts in the region, particularly with China.

The marines were part of the Marine Corps’ 3rd Coastal Battalion, established to better prepare for superpower rivalry in the region. They trained in various locations, including Itbayat Island in the Philippines, practicing tactics that would allow them to operate in remote locations with challenging conditions. The goal was to complicate China’s decision-making and delay their advances in the event of a conflict.

The marines would need to operate in small, nimble units, equipped with essential supplies and weaponry. They would be tasked with gathering intelligence, communicating effectively, and remaining hidden from Chinese forces. The ability to adapt to combat situations and remain mobile would be crucial in engaging with the enemy.

The marines faced challenges in terms of logistics, supply chain issues, and limited access to transportation. They depended on helicopters for transport and struggled with rugged terrains, small bridges, and narrow roads. Plans for the production of ships to transport equipment between islands were delayed, posing obstacles during combat situations.

The alliance between the US and the Philippines was strong, with the US having access to Philippine military sites for upgrades and exercises. The marines from the 3rd Coastal Battalion spent significant time in the Philippines, preparing for potential conflicts in the region. Their presence in strategic locations would be essential in case of a crisis.

The marines’ primary goal was to contain the Chinese fleet within the first island chain and counter China’s denial of access strategy. By preventing Chinese forces from moving beyond the first chain of islands, the marines aimed to protect American forces and maintain a foot in the region. Their tactics would need to be effective and survivable in order to achieve their objectives in a potential conflict scenario.