Marine Corps Combat Services Support

The Marine Corps Combat Services Support (PE 0206624M) program element is designed to enhance the operational effectiveness and logistical resilience of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) through targeted research, development, testing, and evaluation (RDT&E) efforts. This program supports a broad portfolio of initiatives aimed at improving combat breaching capabilities, logistics, maintenance, transportation, and the modernization of service support equipment and vehicles. The overarching goal is to ensure that Marine Corps units are equipped with reliable, survivable, and technologically advanced support systems that can operate effectively in contested and distributed environments.

Combat Service Support Engineering Equipment focuses on several key objectives, including the development and integration of modifications for the Engineer Family of Systems, corrosion prevention and control, and explosive ordnance disposal capabilities. The program funds testing and integration of lighter, compact armor technologies and supports ballistic testing to improve survivability. The Corrosion Prevention and Control (CPAC) initiative aims to extend the life of Marine Corps assets through the identification and certification of new corrosion control products and processes, in partnership with the Naval Surface Warfare Center - Carderock Division.

Additionally, the Family of Explosive Ordnance Disposal Equipment and Explosive Hazard Defeat System projects support the development of underwater and unmanned systems to locate, identify, and neutralize explosive threats, responding to evolving operational requirements and Congressional directives.

Motor Transport Modifications addresses the modernization and sustainment of the Marine Corps tactical vehicle fleet, including the Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement, Medium Tactical Truck prototypes, Logistics Vehicle System Replacement, and the P-19 Replacement firefighting vehicle. The program supports engineering change proposals, safety upgrades, and technology prototyping to improve vehicle reliability, survivability, and maintainability. RDT&E funding is used to test new configurations, address obsolescence issues, and develop solutions for medium/heavy tactical trailers and ancillary equipment, with a focus on optimizing lift and mobility for expeditionary operations.

The acquisition strategy leverages Other Transaction Authority for prototyping and emphasizes the use of Commercial Off The Shelf and Non Developmental Items where feasible.

MAGTF Combat Service Support Equipment & Systems Engineering centers on the development of the Family of Mobile Power Systems, which includes ruggedized power generation, distribution, and storage systems, battery charging units, and environmental control equipment. These systems are critical enablers for Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations and support energy resilience and optimization in logistically contested environments.

Recent efforts have focused on hybrid Environmental Control Units and the Intelligent Power Management System - Energy Storage Unit, with RDT&E activities supporting prototype development, battery certification, and environmental impact reduction. The acquisition strategy involves collaboration with Small Business Innovation Research programs and Navy/Army Warfare Centers to ensure modular and scalable power solutions.

Testing, Measuring, Diagnostic Equipment & Support Equipment provides organic test capabilities for Marine Corps maintainers, supporting predictive and condition-based maintenance strategies. The Family of Automatic Test Systems enables fault isolation and diagnostics for a wide range of platforms, including communication electronics and ordnance systems. The program is advancing artificial intelligence and machine learning tools to enhance predictive analytics and reduce supply chain challenges.

RDT&E efforts include the development of self-test scripts, integration with supply support systems, and testing of next-generation diagnostic equipment. Acquisition is managed through partnerships with Army and Navy research centers and Marine Corps Logistics Command.

Congressional Adds in FY 2024 provided targeted funding for the platform-independent portable self-contained sensor system, specifically supporting the development and testing of the Amphibious Unmanned Ground Vehicle/Autonomous Amphibious Response Vehicle. This initiative aims to deliver advanced mine-detection and clearing capabilities in surf and beach landing zones, reducing risks to personnel and enhancing operational flexibility for both Navy and Marine Corps Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams. The acquisition strategy for these congressional adds involves direct contracting through Marine Corps Systems Command, with a focus on rapid prototyping and fielding.

The Marine Corps Combat Services Support program element is structured to address both immediate operational needs and long-term modernization objectives. Through a combination of engineering modifications, technology development, testing, and targeted congressional investments, the program seeks to ensure that Marine Corps support systems remain effective, resilient, and adaptable in a rapidly changing threat environment. These efforts are closely aligned with Force Design and Force Modernization directives, supporting the Marine Corps' ability to conduct distributed operations and maintain readiness across diverse global theaters.