CHAPTER 3
MPF ORGANIZATION, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND COMMAND
RELATIONSHIPS
3001. General
The overarching purpose of the Maritime Prepositioning Force (MPF) is to enable the rapid deployment and establishment of a MAGTF in support of national objectives. A key feature of MPF is its inherent capability to respond to
a variety of contingencies ranging from humanitarian assistance to a major theater of war. MPF command relationships are based on joint doctrine, and focused on incorporating MPF into naval, joint, and multinational operations
with a flexible command and control structure that ensures the employment of MPF to greatest advantage.
An MPF is a temporary organization established by an establishing authority, and at a minimum, is comprised of a
MAGTF and assigned Navy forces under the MAGTF command element, and Navy forces and a MPSRON under
the command of the Commander, Maritime Prepositioning Force (CMPF). (See figure 3-1.) Any MAGTF, from a
MEU to a MEF, is able to employ the equipment and supplies contained in the MPSRON. The characteristics and responsibilities of the various elements of the MPF organization are discussed below.
ESTABLISHING
AUTHORITY
MAGTF
CE
GCE
ACE
CSSE
CMPF
NMCB
FH
MPS
NSE
NCW
Figure 3-1. MPF Organization
3002. Establishing Authority
The establishing authority is the common superior commander of the CMPF and MAGTF commanders. The establishing authority may be a joint task force (JTF) commander, subordinate unified commander, functional component
commander, service component commander, subordinate naval commander (i.e., numbered fleet commander, MEF
commander), or multinational commander. The establishing authority deploys and employs MPF forces. As the
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commander delegates responsibility for the MPF operation and the MAGTF employment mission, the establishing
authority normally has OPCON of all assigned forces as well as the authority to exercise general direction of the supporting effort. Some of the establishing authority's responsibilities include—
Issuing an initiating directive
Establishing command relationships within the MPF
Designating the time to commence movement of the MPSRON and the FIE (establishing C-day)
Approving MAGTF AAA and regeneration plans
Coordinating intelligence collection, processing, and dissemination
Establishing the Force Protection Operations Center (FPOC) and designating a force protection officer (FPO)
to coordinate and integrate all force protection functions and activities
Designating force protection functions to the appropriate subordinates. Airward force protection responsibilities may be delegated, retained, or subsumed by higher headquarters depending on forces available
Approving termination of the MPF operation
Coordinating force disposition instructions upon completion of the MPF operation
3003. MAGTF Organization
A MAGTF is typically comprised of four core elements; however, the MPF MAGTF also contains—
Command Element
Ground Combat Element
Aviation Combat Element
Combat Service Support Element
Naval Mobile Construction Battalion
Fleet Hospital
a. Command Element
The command element (CE) is the MAGTF headquarters, consisting of the MAGTF commander and staff. The CE
provides command, control, and coordination essential for the effective planning and execution of operations by the
other three elements of the MAGTF.
b. Ground Combat Element
The ground combat element (GCE) is task-organized to conduct ground operations. It is constructed around an infantry unit, and includes combat support units such as artillery and armor.
c. Aviation Combat Element
The aviation combat element (ACE) is task-organized to provide all or part of the functions of Marine Corps aviation
based on the tactical situation and the MAGTF mission and size. The expeditionary airfield (EAF) is controlled by
the ACE. The primary mission of the EAF is to provide a tactical airfield for Marine Corps aircraft. The secondary
missions are to increase the sortie generation rate for carrier naval aviation, and a terminus for sustainment provided
by strategic and intratheater airlift.
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d. Combat Service Support Element
The combat service support element (CSSE) is task-organized to provide the full range of combat service support
necessary to accomplish the MAGTF mission.
e. Naval Mobile Construction Battalion
The naval mobile construction battalion (NMCB) provides deliberate engineering support to the MAGTF, to include
major horizontal and vertical construction, facilities repair, and other general engineering support. The NMCB provides a standardized and interoperable construction capability using various packaged equipment modules called
T/A-57. T/A-57 contains three "core modules" (T/A-91), one "basic module" (T/A-92), and one "heavy module"
(T/A-93). Each core module contains civil engineering support equipment (CESE), tool assemblies, and support
gear for 250 Seabees. The basic module and one core module contain major vertical construction capabilities. The
heavy module and one core module contain major horizontal construction capabilities. The NMCB table of organization and allowance is comprised of T/A-57 plus the FIE. The NMCB can also form the advance echelon of a naval
construction regiment (NCR).
f. Fleet Hospital
The fleet hospital provides Level III and general medical support to the MAGTF through a 500 bed hospital.
3004. MAGTF Commander
The MAGTF Commander, a U.S. Marine Corps officer identified in the initiating directive, has OPCON of Marine
Corps and Navy forces assigned to the MPF MAGTF. Some of the MAGTF commander's responsibilities include—
Preparing an arrival and assembly plan in coordination with CMPF
Establishing the arrival assembly operations group (AAOG)
Coordinating time-phased arrival of MPF elements and control measures within the AAA with CMPF
Planning and coordinating strategic airlift of the fly-in-echelon to include NSEs
In some cases, designating the landward security officer (LSO), or assigning LSO tasks to a subordinate
commander
Recommending, in coordination with CMPF, termination of the MPF operation to the Establishing Authority
Coordinating the establishment of a fleet hospital with the program manager, fleet hospital program, if the MPF
mission so requires
Establishing the MAGTF movement control center
Documenting/manifesting MAGTF personnel, equipment, and supplies
Assigning liaison personnel to the FMCC and LMCC agencies as required
Establishing a unit movement control center (UMCC) as required and submitting UMCC reports to the LMCC
Coordinating embarkation of forces aboard ships, strategic airlift, and intra-theater lift
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3005. Navy Component Organization
The Navy MPF component is comprised of four key elements:
a. Command Element
The command element consists of the CMPF and the associated staff. The CMPF and staff originate from a standing
Navy organization complete with command and control capabilities.
b. Maritime Prepositioning Ship Squadron
An MPSRON consists of a group of civilian-owned and civilian-crewed ships chartered by Military Sealift Command loaded with prepositioned equipment and 30 days of supplies to support a MAGTF.
c. Naval Support Element
The NSE is composed of naval beach group staff and subordinate unit personnel, a detachment of Navy cargo handling force personnel, and other Navy components as required. The NSE is typically divided into two groups; one
group comprising the beach party group of the landing force support party (LFSP), and the other group—which performs shipboard duties for the off-load and ship-to-shore (STS) movement of the MPE/S.
d. Naval Coastal Warfare
The NCW element provides the CMPF a broad array of command and control and force protection capabilities for
harbor approach defense, harbor defense, and port security. Naval coastal warfare resources consist of both active
and reserve component Navy and Coast Guard units and personnel. The specific NCW organization will vary with
the situation. The following are some of the typical subordinate elements.
A harbor defense command unit is a deployable C4I unit whose core competency is as a harbor defense
commander's command center staff. The harbor defense command unit utilizes a mobile ashore support terminal,
which provides an extensive C4I capability.
A mobile inshore undersea warfare unit (MIUWU) is a deployable mobile tactical element of IUW forces
comprised of surveillance and C3, mobility, logistics, and administrative support elements.
An inshore boat unit is a deployable, armed, small craft unit that provides small craft security support.
A port security unit (PSU).
3006. Commander, Maritime Prepositioning Force
The CMPF, a U. S. Navy officer identified in the initiating directive, has OPCON of all MSC and Navy forces assigned to the MPF, except those Navy forces that are assigned to the MAGTF. The CMPF's responsibilities
include—
Coordinating airlift of NSE elements with the MAGTF Commander
Coordinating time-phased arrival of MPF elements and control measures within the AAA with the MAGTF
Commander
Designating the seaward security officer
Coordinating termination of the MPF operation with the MAGTF Commander.
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3007. Commander, Maritime Prepositioning Ship Squadron
The COMPSRON is the principal advisor to the CMPF with respect to ship matters including administration, training, readiness, doctrine, employment, ship characteristics, and tactical requirements. The COMPSRON's responsibilities include—
Providing technical assistance for operations involving the MPSRON
Evaluating readiness of assigned ships
Conducting MPF planning and MPS operations as directed
Conducting training in command and control
Developing and improving operational procedures for MPSRON support
Monitoring contractor arrangements for husbandry of assigned ships
Developing self-defense/internal ship security and requesting support as needed
Acting as the MSC executive agent in base support matters as directed
Serving as a consular representative for Merchant Marine matters
Coordinating port service requirements for the MPSRON
Supporting security in the AAA as directed by CMPF/ SSO
Arranging for refueling of the MPSRON
Providing billeting and messing for the off-load preparation party and off-load control unit
3008. Commander, Naval Support Element
The Commander, naval support element (CNSE) commands elements of the naval beach group (NBG), Navy Cargo
Handling and Port Group (NAVCHAPGRU), and other elements as assigned. The CNSE and associated staff originate from the NBG, complete with organic command and control capabilities. The CNSE's responsibilities include—
Participating in off-load planning and conducting the off-load in coordination with the MAGTF Commander
and COMPSRON
Coordinating activities between the beach party team and the LFSP
Exercising OPCON over USMC OPPs and debarking teams provided by the MAGTF
Recommending naval reserve augmentation requirements to the Fleet CINC via the CMPF.
3009. Commander, Naval Coastal Warfare Command
Duties of the Commander, naval coastal warfare command include—
Participating in force protection planning and conducting force protection operations as directed by CMPF
Coordinating force protection activities with the seaward security officer
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Exercising OPCON over subordinate elements comprising the NCW
Recommending naval reserve augmentation requirements to the Fleet CINC via the CMPF
3010. Formation of an MPF and Its Initiating Directive
Typically, a CINC (in coordination with the subordinate component commanders, and as directed by the NCA) initiates an MPF operation and the subsequent MAGTF operations. The MPF initiating directive provides essential information concerning the MPF operation. An initiating directive is issued by, and at the discretion of, the establishing
authority. If a separate initiating directive is not published, the required information listed below may usually be
found in warning orders, execution orders, and operational plans. Additionally, if the MPF operation augments an
amphibious operation, the MPF mission and appropriate command relationship guidance is included in the amphibious operation initiating guidance. The initiating directive should include, but is not limited to, the following information (see appendix E for a sample format):
Purpose of the MPF deployment and employment
Assignment of Navy and Marine forces
Identification of the MAGTF Commander
Identification of the CMPF
Command relationships for the MPF operation, including conditions for transition of command
relationships if necessary
Required dates for the commencement and completion of MPF operations
General location of the AAA and the MAGTF area of operations
Identification of AMC planning headquarters
Logistics instructions regarding support responsibilities in the objective area
Availability of US/multinational support in and out of the objective area
Communications instructions
Estimated closure time of the MPSRON to the AAA
Force protection guidance, taskings, and responsibilities
Instructions regarding the MPSRON and NSE upon completion of the arrival and assembly phase
3011. MPF Command Relationships
There are four command relationships: combatant command (COCOM), operational control (OPCON), tactical control (TACON), and Support (Joint Pub 0-2). COCOM can only be exercised by combatant commanders, and cannot
be delegated. OPCON, which is inherent in COCOM, can be delegated, as can TACON and Support. In MPF operations, the establishing authority may be delegated OPCON or TACON of the MAGTF Commander and CMPF by
the combatant commander. The establishing authority is responsible for establishing command relationships and the
command and control structure for the MPF operation.
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The command relationship established between the MAGTF Commander and the CMPF is a key decision, and
should provide for unity of effort, simplicity and flexibility. Ultimately, the command relationship between the
MAGTF Commander and the CMPF should be predicated upon the establishing authority's assessment of mission requirements. It should provide a clear, well defined, and easily understood command channel with the requisite
authority to prosecute the MPF operation in a timely, efficient, and effective manner. While the establishing authority normally has OPCON or TACON of subordinate forces, the relationship between the CMPF and MAGTF Commander is normally TACON or Support.
a. Tactical Control Command Relationships
TACON may be delegated to, and exercised at, any level at or below the level of combatant command (Joint Pub
0-2). TACON is typically limited to the detailed and usually local direction and control of forces necessary to accomplish assigned taskings. TACON provides sufficient authority for controlling and directing the application of
force or tactical use of combat support assets. TACON can be delegated by the establishing authority to subordinate
commanders within the MPF. For example, a TACON command relationship between the MAGTF commander and
the CMPF may be appropriate when the establishing authority decides that, because of the threat, timing, or the
nature of the mission, it is necessary (for at least part of the operation) for one element to have a significant degree of
control over the other.
b. Support Command Relationships
Each subordinate element of the joint force can support or be supported by other elements. A supporting relationship is established by a superior commander between subordinate commanders when one organization should aid,
protect, complement, or sustain another force (Joint Pub 3-0). A support command relationship between the
MAGTF Commander and the CMPF may be appropriate when the establishing authority decides that the mission and
associated taskings do not require one force to have TACON of the other. The establishing authority is responsible
for ensuring that both the supported and supporting commander understand the degree of authority the supported
commander is granted (Joint Pub 0-2).The categories of support are as follows:
Mutual support is the action that units render each other against an enemy because of their assigned tasks, their
position relative to each other (and to the enemy), and their inherent capabilities.
General support is the action that is given to the supported force as a whole rather than to a particular subdivision thereof.
Direct support is a mission requiring a force to support another specific force and authorizing it to answer directly the supported force's request for assistance.
Close support is the action of the supporting force against targets or objectives that are sufficiently near the
supported force so as to require detailed integration or coordination of the supporting action with fire, movement, or
other actions of the supported force.
c. Establishing Supported and Supporting Roles
Since the essential purpose and primary focus of an MPF operation is the establishment of a MAGTF fully prepared
to execute an employment mission, then in a broad sense the CMPF supports the MAGTF. The establishing authority
may decide that a specified support relationship between the MAGTF Commander (supported) and the CMPF (supporting) should be established for the duration of an MPF operation. However, there may be certain requirements in
a phase of an MPF operation that may mitigate against such a generality, and may require the support relationship to
change from phase to phase. For example, during the movement phase the CMPF relies on the MAGTF Commander
for coordinating the air transportation of the NSE. In another, the CMPF's critical responsibility during the arrival
and assembly phase is the off-load of the MPSRON, a tasking that cannot be accomplished without assistance from
MAGTF elements such as the LFSP. In these two instances the MAGTF is providing support to the CMPF.
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While a support relationship is a viable command authority, it is incumbent upon the establishing authority to make
clear in the initiating directive the requirements for support, who is supporting whom, and the parameters for transitioning this command relationship. It should also include—
The forces and other resources allocated to the supporting effort
The time, place, level, and duration of the supporting effort
The relative priority of the supporting effort
The authority, if any, of the supporting commander to modify the supporting effort in the event of
an exceptional opportunity or an emergency
The degree of authority granted to the supported commander over the supporting effort
d. MPF Command Relationships, Responsibilities, and Actions by Phase
(1) Planning Phase
The MAGTF Commander and the CMPF report to the establishing authority for planning
MAGTF Commander: OPCON to MARFOR
CMPF: OPCON to the NAVFOR/numbered fleet commander
NMCB and FH Commanders: OPCON to the MAGTF Commander
The COMPSRON, CNSE and CNCW report to the CMPF for planning
The COMPSRON: OPCON to the numbered fleet commander, and ADCON to the COMSC through the
MSC area commander
CNSE: OPCON/ADCON to the numbered fleet commander
CNCW: OPCON/ADCON to the numbered fleet commander
The MAGTF Commander publishes the employment operations order (OPORD), arrival and assembly
plan, and the deployment letter of instruction (LOI)
The MAGTF Commander and the CMPF coordinate departure of the survey, liaison, and reconnaissance
party (SLRP) and the OPP
(2) Marshalling Phase
The CMPF and the MAGTF Commander are chopped OPCON or TACON to the establishing authority
The COMPSRON, CNSE and CNCW chop OPCON to the CMPF
The CMPF coordinates marshalling of the NSE, NCW, etc. with the MAGTF
The CNSE assigns personnel to the SLRP and OPP, and coordinates with the MAGTF commander for marshalling and movement
The MAGTF Commander has OPCON of all Marine forces
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The MAGTF Commander assembles the SLRP and OPP for movement
The MAGTF Commander coordinates, assembles, and supports airlift of the MPF FIE with the tanker airlift
control element (TALCE) via the departure airfield control group (DACG) at the APOE
The COMPSRON continues coordination with the MAGTF commander and the CMPF
(3) Movement Phase
The CMPF coordinates movement of the MPSRON
The MAGTF Commander coordinates movement of all FIE elements
(4) Arrival and Assembly Phase
The MAGTF Commander retains OPCON of all MAGTF elements, and provides forces either TACON to,
or in support of, the CMPF to facilitate the off-load
The CMPF retains OPCON of assigned Navy elements and the MPSRON, and conducts off-load operations
according to priorities established by the MAGTF Commander
The CNSE conducts the ship-to-shore movement of MPE/S
The MAGTF Commander is responsible for the throughput of MPE/S from the beach and port to the unit assembly areas
The MAGTF Commander prepares for the operational mission
NOTE: The AAA phase/MPF operation ends when the MAGTF Commander is prepared to undertake the MAGTF
employment mission. The MPF operation resumes when the MAGTF employment mission concludes and the establishing authority authorizes the MAGTF Commander and CMPF to begin regeneration activities.
(5) Regeneration Phase
The MAGTF Commander and the CMPF coordinate the regeneration of the MPSRON. Regeneration must be
accomplished as efficiently and effectively as possible
The MAGTF Commander and the CMPF coordinate and support the redeployment of the MPF
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