MARSOC’s Next Evolution: Raiders Reimagined for Future Conflicts

At the 2025 Modern Day Marine Expo, Maj. Gen. Peter D. Huntley laid out a bold vision for the Marine Raiders—one that centers on the individual operator as a technologically empowered force, ready for the demands of multi-domain conflict in the Indo-Pacific.

At the 2025 Modern Day Marine Expo in Washington, D.C., Major General Peter D. Huntley, commander of Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC), unveiled a transformative vision for the Marine Raiders. Emphasizing adaptability and technological integration, Huntley stated, “The Marine Raider is our platform.“ This declaration underscores a shift towards enhancing the individual operator’s capabilities through advanced training and equipment.

This initiative, known as “Next-Gen Raider,” aims to cultivate “cognitive raiders”—operators proficient in both traditional combat skills and modern technological tools. The goal is to prepare these elite Marines for complex, multi-domain operations, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, where the strategic landscape is rapidly evolving.

Strategic Focus: Indo-Pacific Over Arctic

While acknowledging the growing importance of the Arctic in global strategy, Huntley clarified that MARSOC’s immediate focus remains on the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and East Africa. “We know that’s coming, but right now it’s not the alligator closest to the boat,” he remarked, indicating that Arctic operations are a future consideration rather than a current priority

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This strategic prioritization reflects MARSOC’s commitment to addressing the most pressing global challenges, ensuring that Marine Raiders are optimally deployed where they are needed most.

Embracing Technological Integration

MARSOC is actively seeking to integrate cutting-edge technologies to enhance operational effectiveness. During the expo, operators highlighted the need for systems that can consolidate vast amounts of data into accessible formats, reducing cognitive load and improving decision-making on the battlefield.

One such innovation is the Rapid Accessory Integration Device (RAID) plate, designed to streamline equipment and lighten the load for operators. This focus on technological advancement ensures that Marine Raiders remain at the forefront of modern warfare capabilities.

USMC Raid Plate

Maintaining Elite Standards Through Selective Growth

Despite the evolving demands of global operations, Huntley emphasized that MARSOC intends to maintain its current size of approximately 3,000 personnel. “We’re small, but it also allows us to keep quality very high,” he explained. This approach ensures that the command remains agile and capable, avoiding the dilution of standards that can accompany rapid expansion.

By focusing on quality over quantity, MARSOC aims to preserve the elite status of the Marine Raiders, ensuring that each operator is exceptionally trained and equipped for the challenges ahead.

Aligning Identity with the Marine Corps

In a move to reinforce its identity within the broader Marine Corps, MARSOC has directed its personnel to transition from wearing MultiCam uniforms to the Corps’ flame-resistant organizational gear (FROGs). This decision, effective January 1, 2025, reflects an effort to standardize appearance and strengthen the connection between MARSOC and the Marine Corps as a whole .

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This uniform change symbolizes MARSOC’s commitment to its roots and its role within the larger Marine Corps structure, even as it continues to evolve and adapt to new operational demands. Forging Ahead Under Maj. Gen. Huntley’s leadership, MARSOC is poised to redefine the role of the Marine Raider for the 21st century. By embracing technological innovation, focusing on strategic regions, and maintaining elite standards, the command ensures that its operators are prepared for the complexities of modern warfare. As Huntley aptly stated, “The Marine Raider is our platform,” highlighting the central role of the individual operator in MARSOC’s future endeavors.