Executive Summary
This book is a collection of essays on the history of amphibious warfare, intended to broaden the scholarly focus beyond the well-known US-led operations of WWII. It examines various historical case studies, from the 16th century to modern day, to derive lessons and consider the future of amphibious operations. The work argues for the continued relevance of amphibious forces, especially for the U.S. Marine Corps, despite new anti-access/area-denial challenges.
Why It Matters
This document is crucial for defense analysts as it provides a comprehensive historical and contemporary examination of amphibious warfare, a critical capability for power projection and maritime security, especially in an era of renewed great power competition. Understanding the evolution and future of amphibious operations is vital for strategic planning and force development.
Key Takeaways
- Amphibious operations are an enduring and critical component of naval campaigns, essential for achieving strategic objectives.
- The U.S. Marine Corps risks becoming too land-centric, necessitating a renewed focus on maritime and amphibious capabilities.
- Competitors like China and Russia are significantly investing in and expanding their amphibious forces, highlighting their perceived strategic value.
- Historical case studies demonstrate the adaptability and continuous relevance of amphibious forces despite technological advancements.
- Future amphibious operations will integrate multidomain concepts and naval special warfare in great power competition scenarios.
Strategic Relevance
Amphibious capabilities are fundamental for projecting power, securing maritime interests, and responding to global contingencies. This analysis underscores the strategic imperative for nations, particularly the U.S., to maintain and evolve their amphibious forces in response to geopolitical shifts and technological advancements, especially given the increasing investments by peer competitors.