The 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit provides a forward-deployed, flexible, sea-based MAGTF capable of conducting amphibious operations, crisis response, and limited contingency operations, to include enabling the introduction of follow-on joint, interagency, and coalition forces to support the theater requirements of geographic combatant commanders.
"The Fighting 13th," is a lethal naval expeditionary force in readiness, serving as the Nation’s premier crisis response force. As a forward-deployable, sea-based Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF), we provide the National Command Authority with a flexible and responsive force able to conduct combat operations, contingency missions, and crisis response across the globe. Operating from the sea aboard U.S. Navy amphibious ships, we provide a sovereign presence in critical regions, giving national leaders immediate, combat-credible options without the need for foreign access, basing, or overflight permissions.
The 13th MEU’s strength lies in its integrated, combined-arms structure. We combine a Ground Combat Element, an Aviation Combat Element, and a Logistics Combat Element under a single Command Element to form a cohesive team of over 2,200 Marines and Sailors. This force is equipped with advanced platforms like the Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) and a full spectrum of fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and tilt-rotor aircraft. We support naval campaigns by seizing and defending advanced naval bases, controlling key maritime terrain, and enabling the Joint Force to operate freely. Through a rigorous pre-deployment training program, the 13th MEU is certified to execute any mission, from humanitarian assistance to high-end combat, ensuring we are prepared to protect U.S. interests and ensure stability wherever we are called.