Camp Pendleton, California. (December 9, 2024): After overcoming initial obstacles, the Marine Corps is currently deploying its new Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) to bases in Japan, Guam, and the Philippines. In this photo by Corporal Kyle Chan, a Marine guides this next generation amphibious craft toward shore during exercises with the 1st Marine Division. The ACV deployment is part of an overall refocusing of strategy to confront China in the Indo-Pacific.
Under this new plan, the Marines would rapidly deploy to remote islands to operate in smaller, more dispersed groups. This is a challenging logistical task given the size of the Indo-Pacific. The goal is to field a highly dispersed force capable of conducting amphibious operations independently with the least amount of logistical support.
The new ACV offers greater mobility and has many improvements in fire power and personnel protection. Manufactured by BAE Systems, the ACV is an eight-wheel craft launched and recovered from ships in open water that can carry up to thirteen Marines. The new design has improved survivability with a blast-resistant hull, energy absorbing seats, and an automatic fire suppression system. Its V-shaped frame further reduces the risk to its occupants from mines and improvised explosive devices.
The ACV also has a more modern communications suite and advanced targeting capability. More than able to defend itself, one version of the ACV fires the MK-44 Stretch Bushmaster duel-fed cannon, the largest gun in the Marine Corps inventory.
As America shifts focus to the Indo-Pacific, the Marines expect the new ACV to be a key player in any conflict with China.