Analysis of the Twenty-Nine Capabilities of the Marine Corps Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable)

This study examines the twenty-nine capabilities of the Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) (MEU (SOC)) to determine their relative validity. The methodology utilizes a multiple criteria decision-making model to determine the relative validity of each MEU (SOC) capability. The criteria for evaluation included Unified Theater Command requirements, U.S. Marine Corps requirements, and history of MEU (SOC) capability execution. This study ranked the MEU (SOC) capabilities in descending order based upon their overall relative validity. Generally, MEU (SOC) capabilities in the Military Operations Other Than War category were determined to have the highest relative validity, while the capabilities in the Direct Action category were determined to have the highest relative validity, while the capabilities in the Direct Action category had the lowest relative validity. The Marine Corps could find itself in a more resource-constrained environment in the near future, and be forced to make difficult decisions regarding reduction of MEU (SOC) capabilities. In this situation, this study provides an alternative form of analysis useful in determining which capabilities should be deleted from the MEU (SOC) repertoire.