By Robbin Laird In this September 23, 2020 story published by 3rd Marie Aircraft Wing, the historic deployment of USMC F-35Bs onboard the UK’s largest warship ever built by the UK was highlighted. PORTSMOUTH, England -- Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 211 embarked 10 F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters onboard…
By Robbin Laird On Friday, October 9, 2020, I had a chance to visit the USS Ford and to get an update on the progress of this formidable warship. Earlier, Ed Timperlake and I have visited the USS Ford in 2015 and discussed the next generation large deck carrier with…
The Royal Australian Air Force deployed C-27J Spartan aircraft and personnel from RAAF Base Amberley to participate in Exercise Ready Spartan Prove (RSP) in Townsville Queensland from 10 – 18 September 2020. No. 35 Squadron and No. 383 Squadron operated at austere airfields in a simulated uncertain security environment to…
By Robbin Laird During my visit to MAWTS-1 and to NAWDC, one clear instrument of their enhanced integration in the contested battlespace was rather obvious: The F-35 and its evolution as a global enterprise. With the F-35 coming to the large deck carrier, the strike syllabus has changed. With the…
By Robbin Laird As the USMC focuses on how it can best help the US Navy in the maritime fight, two key questions can be posed: "How is the Marine Corps going to contribute most effectively to the Pacific mission in terms of Sea Control and Sea Denial? “And how…
By Robbin Laird I have argued that the shift from the land wars to the new strategic environment is best described as the shift to full spectrum crisis management. The return to great power competition and to an ability to dominate the high-end fight is the usual description of the…
By Robbin Laird As the USMC works its relationship with the US Navy, a core focus is upon how the Marine Corps can provide for enhanced sea control and sea denial. A means to this end is an ability to move combat pieces on the chessboard of the extended battlespace.…
By Robbin Laird Prior to my visit in early September 2020, I conducted a series of teleconferences with MAWTS-1 officers in the late Spring and early Summer. The focus of those discussions was upon mobile and expeditionary basing and how the training for this key capability was being shaped going…
