2025-04-09T21:47:21Z

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The age-old mantra within the Marine Corps, "Every Marine a rifleman," has served as a fundamental principle for decades, but the nature of warfare is evolving. In a recent presentation at the Sea Air and Space Symposium, an annual gathering that brings together military and industry leaders, Lt. Gen. Benjamin Watson, the commanding general of the Training and Education Command, highlighted the necessity for Marines to adapt their skill sets in light of modern conflicts.

Traditionally, the phrase "Every Marine a rifleman" underscores the belief that all Marines, irrespective of their specific rolesbe it in infantry or administrative supportshould maintain a core level of combat proficiency. This philosophy asserts that any Marine should be capable of wielding a rifle effectively in combat situations. However, Lt. Gen. Watson emphasized that the future battlefield may require Marines to prioritize proficiency with advanced technologies, such as drones, alongside their traditional rifle skills.

"Now, if you use technology, you know that same Marine can be just as lethal at ranges out to 15, 20 kilometers and beyond," Watson stated, indicating a significant shift in how Marines will engage in combat.

The remarks come in conjunction with the Marine Corps' strategic initiative to bolster its capabilities in small unmanned aerial systems (UAS). This new drive includes the formation of an "Attack Drone Team," which aims to assimilate lessons learned from the ongoing drone warfare observed in Ukraine and to implement comprehensive training programs across the Marine Corps. This initiative reflects a broader understanding of the implications of modern warfare and the integral role technology plays within it.

While proficiency in shooting at a target from 500 meters remains crucial for Marinesespecially given the effective range of the M16 and M4 riflesthe evolving landscape of warfare demands that troops rethink traditional combat strategies. As Watson pointed out, future conflicts may challenge previous assumptions about battlefield realities, such as the availability of immediate medical care and sustained air superiority.

Watson further elaborated on the increasing complexities presented by new technologies and emerging threats in the current battlespace. He remarked, "It's not all that much of a stretch to say we will never again fight without what we have traditionally known as air superiority, at least not persistently." This statement underscores the significant change in combat dynamics, particularly compared to the near-constant air support experienced by American forces during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.

In addition to the focus on drone technology, Lt. Gen. Watson noted the importance of individual and unit signature managementa concept gaining traction among Marine leadership due to the escalating risks posed by constant surveillance. Watson described grassroots initiatives at the Marine Division level to enhance signature management through innovative solutions such as advanced camouflage and heat control techniques. However, he also stressed the importance of understanding how Marines may be perceived on the electromagnetic spectrum and how to operate effectively in such environments.

For example, just last month, Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Eric Smith shared a cautionary message on the social media platform X, warning Marines about the potential dangers of using cellphones in combat zones. With readily available tech capable of detecting cellular signals, Marines' presence can be easily compromised, putting units at risk from enemy fire.

Watson pointed out that the equipment and capabilities of modern warfare have undergone a transformation. Previously, Marines might have entered battle equipped with a couple of grenades, but today they have access to guided hand grenades that can be launched with loitering capabilities, further complicating defensive tactics. "Think about how you would have to defend against that as we change our tactics," he advised, illustrating the rapid evolution of battlefield technology.

While embracing technological advancements is vital, Watson cautioned that these innovations will not resolve all challenges. He reiterated that classic battlefield fundamentals, encapsulated in the principles of "tactics, techniques, and procedures," remain essential in contemporary warfare. Nevertheless, the overarching message is clear: Marines must undergo a significant mental shift to adapt to an era defined by constant observation and evolving threats. "The first thing is getting everybody's head in the right space," Watson concluded, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging that they are under constant surveillance.