The Marine Corps is introducing a new career field focused on battlefield reconnaissance, aiming to give commanders accurate information about the enemy. The 0315 Scout military occupational specialty will provide troops for a 26-member Marine Scout Platoon assigned to infantry battalions and the Scout Teams for light armored reconnaissance battalions.
Modernization Efforts
The change, effective October 1, is part of the Marine Corps’ broader force design modernization to create a more agile and lethal force prepared for future operating environments. Lt. Gen. Jay M. Bargeron, deputy commandant for plans, policies and operations, called the creation of Marine Corps Scouts a critical step in the modernization of infantry battalions.
The Scout Platoons will be equipped with advanced optics, sensors, and drones to extend their observation range on the battlefield. The teams will include a Joint Fires Observer who requests and adjusts surface-to-surface attacks such as artillery, mortars, and naval gunfire. The training for Marine Corps Scouts will build upon foundational infantry skills with a specialized course in ground reconnaissance, surveillance, and communications.
Original reporting: WMAL (Washington DC) — read the source article.
