MCDP 3 governs Marine Corps military operations, including expeditionary operations, organizations, operating concepts, and expeditionary settings.
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It examines geopolitical conditions, expeditionary force requirements, Marine Corps expeditionary organizations, and operating concepts such as operational maneuver from the sea. It is required reading for all Marines.
Applies to: This publication applies that philosophy more specifically to the operations of Marine air-ground task forces (MAGTFs) and to the types of expeditionary settings in which these forces will likely be required to operate.
Importantly, this publication establishes versatility and adaptability as critical capabilities in a broad range of circumstances for expeditionary forces in an uncertain world. (paragraph 2)
Based on chapter 1, chapter 2 establishes the need for a flexible, naval expeditionary force-in-readiness, describes the requirements of expeditionary operations, and identifies the characteristics and capabilities of Marine Corps forces that satisfy those requirements. (paragraph 2)
Chapter 3 describes the particular expeditionary organizations and forces that the Marine Corps contributes in support of national interests overseas. (paragraph 2)
Key among these is the naval concept, operational maneuver from the sea. (paragraph 2)
Because this publication describes concepts that are fundamental to Marine Corps operations, it is required reading for all Marines. (paragraph 2)