MCDP 1-2 — Campaigning

MCDP 1-2 governs military campaigning in the Marine Corps at the operational level of war, including campaign design and conduct.

Search MCDP 1-2

  • Publication number: MCDP 1-2
  • Title: CAMPAIGNING
  • Date: 1 Aug 1997
  • Proponent: 03000 Operations & Readiness
  • Status: Current

View MCDP 1-2 on armypubs.army.mil


It covers the campaign, strategy and tactics, campaign design, conflict termination, and the conduct of campaigns. The publication is descriptive rather than prescriptive, and its concepts require judgment in application.

Applies to: This publication is designed primarily for MAGTF commanders and their staffs and for officers serving on joint and combined staffs.

Topics covered

  • Campaign design
  • Conflict termination
  • Strategic orientation
  • Surprise
  • Tempo
  • Synergy
  • Maneuver
  • Force protection

Questions and answers

What does a campaign plan describe?

A campaign plan describes how time, space, and purpose connect these operations. (paragraph 3)

What is MCDP 1-2 the doctrinal basis for?

Marine Corps Doctrinal Publication (MCDP) 1-2, Campaigning, provides the doctrinal basis for military campaigning in the Marine Corps, particularly as it pertains to a Marine commander or a MAGTF participating in the campaign. (paragraph 2)

How does MCDP 1-2 apply warfighting philosophies?

Campaigning applies the warfighting philosophies in MCDP 1, Warfighting, specifically to the operational level of war. (paragraph 2)

What must Marine leaders integrate with military operations?

Marine leaders must be able to integrate military operations with the other instruments of national power. (paragraph 2)

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