MCTP 3-40B — Tactical Logistics

MCTP 3-40B governs the planning and execution of tactical ground and aviation logistics support by the Marine Corps.

Search MCTP 3-40B

  • Publication number: MCTP 3-40B
  • Title: TACTICAL LOGISTICS
  • Date: 8 Apr 2025
  • Proponent: 04000 Logistics
  • Status: Current

View MCTP 3-40B on armypubs.army.mil


It addresses tactical logistics fundamentals, logistics functional area support, combat service support nodes, and external support. Its planning processes require situation updates, IPB products, assumptions, shortfall analysis, COA development, wargaming, and comparison.

Applies to: This publication is primarily intended for commanders and their staffs who are responsible for planning and conducting logistics operations at the tactical level of warfare.

Topics covered

  • Tactical logistics fundamentals
  • Logistics functional area support
  • Combat service support nodes
  • Aviation logistics
  • IPB products
  • COA development
  • COA wargaming
  • COA comparison and decision

Questions and answers

What does MCTP 3-40B expand upon?

Marine Corps Tactical Publication 3-40B expands upon Marine Corps Warfighting Publication 3-40, Marine Corps Logistics, and provides detailed guidance to Marine Corps logisticians for the conduct of logistics at the tactical level, and it establishes standard terms of reference for tactical logistics and combat service support operations.

What must logistics planners do when conducting center of gravity analysis?

Logistics planners can become creative with COG analysis. (paragraph 1-2)

What challenges can provide commanders realistic perspectives of their COAs?

Challenges within the environment, degraded road networks, interrupted supply nodes, unplanned GCE movements, etc., can provide commanders realistic perspectives of their COAs than physical enemy activity. (paragraph 3-1)

How can a logistics unit view the enemy during center of gravity analysis?

A logistics unit may see the enemy as a friendly artillery battery that will out-consume what a direct-support CLB can provide. (paragraph 1-2)

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