Summary
The U.S. Marine Corps is upgrading its equipment from the older Assault Amphibious Vehicle (AAV) to the newer Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV). This change supports their ability to operate more effectively in challenging environments, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region where China presents military challenges.
Key Facts
- The Marine Corps has decommissioned the Assault Amphibious Vehicle (AAV), which had been in service since 1972.
- The new vehicle, the Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV), is designed to operate in more difficult situations.
- This update is part of a larger plan called "Force Design" aimed at modernizing the Marine Corps for future warfare.
- The Pacific region involves territorial disputes that require strong amphibious capabilities to defend and reclaim islands.
- The ACV is an eight-wheeled armored vehicle, offering better speeds on firm grounds compared to its predecessor.
- The ACV made its debut during a military exercise in the Philippines last year and has been used by a Marine unit in Japan.
- The AAV has been used in various missions, including combat and humanitarian roles in Grenada, Somalia, and Iraq.
