The US Marine Corps is undergoing a strategic shift to prepare for the challenges of island warfare against potential adversaries like China. This adjustment comes after years of predominantly engaging in land-based conflicts in the Middle East, as the military anticipates the need to operate across challenging landscapes and maritime terrains.

With a rising concern over China's military build-up and its aggressive stance in the region, US troops are honing their skills to effectively confront potential threats in remote island settings. The emphasis is on creating smaller, more mobile Marine units like the 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment, which will focus on intelligence gathering, rapid information sharing, and targeted precision strikes using medium-range missiles when required.

The evolving strategy within the US Marine Corps entails a significant reorientation towards potential adversaries with advanced capabilities, marking a departure from the previous focus on counterterrorism efforts. As tensions mount in the Pacific, the military is acknowledging the need for more agile and adaptable formations to effectively respond to the evolving threats posed by nations like China and safeguard US interests in the region. This shift is crucial in enabling larger joint operations aimed at countering Chinese aggression and ensuring the security of countries like Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines.