MCO 3500.18A governs the preparation and deployment of fixed-wing Marine Corps aviation units on aircraft carriers.
View MCO 3500.18A on armypubs.army.mil
The publication addresses TACAIR squadron integration into Navy Carrier Air Wings, including planning, staffing, maintenance, supply, training, and command relationships. It requires coordinated preparation, milestone adherence, personnel support, and post-deployment reporting.
Applies to: This Order is applicable to the Marine Corps Total Force.
Ensure MALS augments are attached to the squadron prior to the first Fleet Readiness Training Program {FRTP) event and remain attached through the deployment in order to allow time for flight deck and operational training prior to deployment. (paragraph 4)
All supervisory personnel should accomplish a liaison visit prior to embarkation to familiarize themselves with the location of assigned spaces. (paragraph 2)
Adherence to these milestones is mandatory. (paragraph 2)
Personnel requirements should be negotiated and resolved with the ship's AIMD officer prior to deployment. (paragraph 2)
A MINIMUM OF 60 DAYS PRIOR TO EACH FRTP EVENT, PROVIDE MAG-XX WITH MISSION REQUIREMENTS AND PLANNING MILESTONES TO GUIDE MAG-XX/VMFA-XXX PREPARATION. (paragraph 5)