Marine expeditionary unit (special operations capable)

A Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), or MEU(SOC), is a special operations capable (SOC) forward-deployed unit of the United States Marine Corps. MEU(SOC)s are task-organized, combined arms forces that operate continuously in maritime environments. They serve as the Marine Corps' principal contribution to the U.S. Unified Combatant Commanders' (COCOMs) forward presence requirements. The designation "(SOC)" indicates that the MEU is trained and equipped to perform a wide range of specialized missions, including:

• Amphibious Raids: Swiftly seizing objectives from the sea.
• Tactical Recovery of Aircraft and Personnel (TRAP): Recovering downed aircrew or isolated personnel.
• Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Relief (HA/DR): Providing aid to civilian populations in crisis.
• Noncombatant Evacuation Operations (NEO): Evacuating U.S. citizens and other designated personnel from dangerous areas.
• Security Operations: Providing security for U.S. assets and personnel abroad.
• Specialized Demolitions: Conducting demolitions operations.
• Forward Air Control (FAC): Directing air support for ground forces.
• Other Specialized Missions: As directed by higher authority.

A MEU(SOC) typically consists of:

• Command Element (CE): Provides command and control over the MEU.
• Ground Combat Element (GCE): A reinforced infantry battalion providing the MEU's ground combat power.
• Aviation Combat Element (ACE): A composite helicopter squadron providing aviation support.
• Logistics Combat Element (LCE): A combat logistics battalion providing logistical support.

The MEU(SOC)'s composition allows it to operate independently and project power ashore with considerable speed and flexibility. The SOC designation requires rigorous training and certification, ensuring the MEU(SOC) is prepared to execute its diverse mission set. Each MEU(SOC) embarks aboard Navy amphibious assault ships, allowing for rapid deployment to global hotspots. They are typically deployed for six to nine months at a time.