What Weapons Do the U.S. Marines Use?
The United States Marine Corps is one of the most elite and prestigious military forces in the world, known for their bravery, skill, and versatility. As a result, the Marines rely on a wide range of weapons to fulfill their mission of providing ground combat forces that can fight and win against any enemy, anywhere. In this article, we will delve into the various weapons used by the U.S. Marines, from small arms to heavy artillery.
Infantry Weapons
The foundation of any Marine Corps rifle squad is the individual weapons carried by each Marine. The standard-issue rifle is the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle (IAR), a gas-powered, 5.56mm rifle that is both accurate and reliable. Marines also carry the M4 carbine, a shorter, lighter version of the M16 rifle that is used for close-quarters battle.
In addition to their primary rifles, Marines may also carry M9 Beretta pistols for close-quarters self-defense, as well as M240 Bravo machine guns for providing suppressive fire in urban environments.
Assault Rifles and Carbines
Marines may also carry M16A4 rifles, which are used for designated marksman roles, and M4A1 carbines, which are used by specialized units such as Scout Snipers. The M16A2 rifle is also used in some capacities, although it is being phased out in favor of the M4A1.
Specialized Weapons
In addition to their standard-issue rifles, Marines may also be issued specialized weapons depending on their role. For example, M249 SAWs (Squad Automatic Weapons) are used by squad leaders to provide suppressive fire, while M240G machine guns are used by fire teams to provide indirect fire support.
Rocket and Grenade Launchers
Marines may also carry M203 grenade launchers, which attach to their rifles and fire 40mm grenades. The M67 frag grenade is the standard-issue grenade used by the Marines, and is effective against soft targets.
Anti-Tank Weapons
Marines may also be equipped with M136 AT4 anti-tank missiles, which are used to defeat armored targets. The M72 LAW (Light Anti-Tank Weapon) is also used, and is a portable, disposable anti-tank missile.
Artillery and Mortars
The Marines have a range of artillery and mortar systems at their disposal. The M777A2 Lightweight 155mm Howitzer is used to provide indirect fire support, while the M224 60mm Lightweight Mortar is used by infantry units to provide close-support fire.
Anti-Aircraft Weapons
Marines may also be equipped with M61 Vulcan 20mm automatic cannons, which are used to provide air defense against low-flying aircraft. The FIM-92 Stinger is also used, and is a portable, surface-to-air missile system.
Table: Marine Corps Weaponry
| Weapon | Caliber | Description |
|---|---|---|
| M27 IAR | 5.56mm | Infantry automatic rifle |
| M4 carbine | 5.56mm | Carbine used for close-quarters battle |
| M9 Beretta | 9mm | Pistol used for close-quarters self-defense |
| M240 Bravo | 7.62mm | Machine gun used for suppressive fire |
| M16A4 | 5.56mm | Rifle used for designated marksman roles |
| M4A1 | 5.56mm | Carbine used by specialized units |
| M249 SAW | 5.56mm | Squad automatic weapon |
| M240G | 7.62mm | Machine gun used for indirect fire support |
| M203 | 40mm | Grenade launcher |
| M67 frag grenade | – | Fragmentation grenade |
| M136 AT4 | 68mm | Anti-tank missile |
| M72 LAW | 66mm | Portable, disposable anti-tank missile |
| M777A2 | 155mm | Lightweight howitzer |
| M224 | 60mm | Lightweight mortar |
| M61 Vulcan | 20mm | Automatic cannon used for air defense |
| FIM-92 Stinger | – | Portable, surface-to-air missile system |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the U.S. Marines use a wide range of weapons to fulfill their mission of providing ground combat forces that can fight and win against any enemy, anywhere. From small arms to heavy artillery, the Marines have the firepower they need to succeed in a variety of environments and against a range of opponents.
