What is the approximate size and self-sustainment duration of a MEF?

What is the approximate size and self-sustainment duration of a MEF?

• A. Approximately 40,000 Marines/Sailors with 60 days sustainment
• B. Approximately 25,000 Marines with 45 days sustainment
• C. Approximately 60,000 Marines with 90 days sustainment
• D. Approximately 15,000 Marines with 15 days sustainment

Answer: (A)

The concept here is the size and how long a Marine Expeditionary Force can operate without outside resupply. A MEF is the Marine Corps’ largest expeditionary unit, built as a self-contained fighting force with ground, aviation, and logistics elements all integrated. It’s designed to project power and operate for a substantial period with its own sustainment capabilities. The standard figure used in doctrine is roughly 40,000 Marines and Sailors, with enough logistics, fuel, food, ammunition, and maintenance to sustain operations for about 60 days without new external resupply. That combination—about 40,000 personnel and 60 days of self-sustainment—fits the typical MEF construct best. The other options either cut too many personnel or stretch the sustainment period beyond what is normally planned for a MEF.

The concept here is the size and how long a Marine Expeditionary Force can operate without outside resupply. A MEF is the Marine Corps’ largest expeditionary unit, built as a self-contained fighting force with ground, aviation, and logistics elements all integrated. It’s designed to project power and operate for a substantial period with its own sustainment capabilities. The standard figure used in doctrine is roughly 40,000 Marines and Sailors, with enough logistics, fuel, food, ammunition, and maintenance to sustain operations for about 60 days without new external resupply. That combination—about 40,000 personnel and 60 days of self-sustainment—fits the typical MEF construct best. The other options either cut too many personnel or stretch the sustainment period beyond what is normally planned for a MEF.