Page 45 - F-35B and USMC

The Integration of the F-35B into USMC Operations

base, or force packages built around the Osprey can execute missions previously only possible with the “large
deck” amphibious ships.

There is little question that there is a significant shortage of L-class ships and the enablers for what the
evolving amphibious task force needs, but it is also clear that allies are looking at Navy-Marine Corps
innovation and seeing the future of a key joint capability.

Whether it be South Korea, Japan or Australia, in the Pacific the core U.S. allies see the amphibious force as
part of their joint force transformation as well.

My recent trip to Australia highlighted the importance of the Navy, Army and Air Force getting the HMAS
Canberra right as a key element in their approach to transforming joint forces. And the U.S. Navy and Marine
Corps are clearly important partners in working the way ahead to do so.
When I was on USS Wasp last Spring, I had a chance to talk with the Commander of Expeditionary Strike
Group Two Rear Adm. Cindy Thebaud.

She discussed the ship integration dynamic involving the F-35B with the Wasp and the ESG, and emphasized
that it was not just about the aircraft, but about the integration of the Marines, the airplane, and the fleet.

I had a chance to follow up with her during a visit to Norfolk, Va. to see the Navy’s elevated causeway build
and exercise.

During the interview, Capt. Michael M. McMillan joined the conversation. McMillan is the Commander of
Amphibious Squadron Eight and had just returned from command of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group
off of the waters of Yemen.

FIGURE 14 USS AMERICA DURING PROOF OF CONCEPT DEMONSTRATION. CREDIT: TODD MILLER

Rear Adm. Thebaud described the role of the ESG and the importance of the evolving amphibious capability
for the Navy and the Marines.

“My primary responsibility is the readiness of east coast amphibious forces. This includes the ships, the
amphibious squadrons, the tactical squadrons that support aviation on the big decks, and the Beach Group,
which includes the LCACs, LCUs and Beach Masters. It also includes the amphibious construction battalion which
was building the elevated causeway system you saw earlier.”

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