Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group - MCTOG

Home
United States
Twentynine Palms, CA
Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group - MCTOG

Serving the Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF) as the nexus of the Ground Combat Element (GCE). Welcome, this is the official U.S. family-friendly).

Marine Corps page for Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group (MCTOG) where you will find the most recent information and news about MCTOG. It is our goal to provide the public with information and news about MCTOG and allow for an open forum of discussion about MCTOG topics. If you are looking for our official web page, please visit: https://www.29palms.marines.mil/units/mctog

Please

feel free to express your opinion about the U.S. Marine Corps in an objective and respectful way that allows for a continued information relationship. While this is an open forum, it's also intended to maintain respect for those who participate (i.e. Please keep your comments clean. Participants are asked to follow our posting guidelines below. Violation of the guidelines below may result in your post being removed. We do not under any circumstance allow graphic, obscene, explicit or racial comments or submissions; nor do we allow comments that are abusive, hateful or intended to defame anyone or any organization. We do not allow solicitations or advertisements. This includes promotion or endorsement of any financial, commercial or non-governmental agency. Similarly, we do not allow attempts to defame or defraud any financial, commercial or non-governmental agency. We do not allow comments that suggest or encourage illegal activity. You participate at your own risk, taking personal responsibility for your comments, your username and any information provided. Lastly, the appearance of external links on this site does not constitute official endorsement on behalf of the U.S. Marine Corps or Department of Defense (DoD).

12/18/2025

In today's transparent battlefield, how does the Marine Corps' Ground Combat Element out-think and out-maneuver the enemy? The latest issue of "The Sand Table" from the Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group (MCTOG) dives deep into the Concept of C2 (Command and Control). ⚔️

This isn't about more complex systems; it's about returning to the core of maneuver warfare: empowering commanders. The Winter 2025 edition explores how commander-centric C2, adaptive rehearsals, and smart management of our electronic signatures are critical for generating tempo and imposing dilemmas on the adversary.

From the "Death Yoke" concept to fusing wargaming with rehearsals, these articles provide a masterclass in how the GCE is honing its ability to fight and win. It’s about leveraging the ultimate weapon: the agile and decisive mind of a Marine leader.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1a094rHF_wpnQie6cDEB3tG8pC27oLNzp/view?usp=drive_link

12/12/2025

After an intensive two weeks in Twentynine Palms, CA, these Marines completed NEC 1-26, sharpening their ability to plan and execute network-informed actions in complex, contested environments.

These Marines put in the work, embraced the challenges, and strengthened the skills our Fleet Marine Force relies on to understand, compete, and win.

Congratulations to the newest NEC graduates! 👏

12/10/2025

Week 2 of the Network Engagement Course (NEC) 1-26 continues in Twentynine Palms, California.

Marines from MCTOG and 3d Battalion, 7th Marines are building a deeper understanding of how human, informational, and technical networks shape the modern battlefield.

The skills taught in NEC directly support the challenges faced by infantry Marines, giving them tools to better assess the environment, anticipate population behaviors, understand key actors, and integrate network considerations into maneuver planning. At the same time, these competencies enhance the effectiveness of Marines across all MOSs who play a role in the operational planning process.

During Week 2, students take the foundational concepts from Week 1 and apply them to practical planning problems, strengthening their ability to support commanders with more holistic, network-informed planning in complex and contested environments.

12/04/2025

Kicking Off NEC 1-26 at Twentynine Palms

This week marks the start of Network Engagement Course (NEC) 1-26 aboard MCAGCC Twentynine Palms, CA. Marines from 3d Battalion, 7th Marines are training alongside instructors and staff from MCTOG, beginning an intensive first week focused on understanding and shaping the information environment.

Attendees are building foundational skills in network mapping, analysis, and engagement, strengthening readiness and sharpening the tools required for future operations.

10/06/2025

The most recent appropriations for the Department of War expired at 11:59 p.m. EST on September 30, 2025. Military personnel will continue in a normal duty status without pay until such time as a continuing resolution or appropriations are passed by Congress and signed into law. Civilian personnel not engaged in excepted activities will be placed in a non-work, non-pay status.

09/26/2025

🎓 Graduation Day – Network Engagement Course 5-25 🎓

Today, Marines from MARSOC and II MEF graduated from the Network Engagement Course at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

Over the past two weeks, these Marines honed their ability to analyze complex human networks and apply advanced engagement techniques, critical skills for modern military operations.

Congratulations to the graduates of NEC 5-25! Your expertise strengthens the force and enhances our ability to understand and influence the operational environment.

09/17/2025

Network Engagement Course 5-25 is in full swing at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina!

Today, Marines from MARSOC and II MEF are taking a deep dive into network analysis, a critical capability in modern military operations. As part of the course, students are presenting link diagram briefs that visually map relationships within complex human networks.

These briefs are more than just academic exercises; they’re an essential component of the Network Engagement Scenario, where Marines apply analytical tools to identify key influencers, vulnerabilities, and opportunities within adversarial and neutral networks.

Through this training, Marines are sharpening their ability to think critically, operate in the information environment, and support commanders with actionable insights to shape the battlespace.

This is what it looks like when warfighters become network thinkers.

08/27/2025

New Release – The Sand Table Vol. IX (Summer 2025)

The Sand Table, published by the Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group (MCTOG), is back with a China-focused issue.

This edition offers a sharp look at the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), its strengths and weaknesses, and the historical patterns shaping its future battles. From AI-enabled cognitive warfare to rigid command structures, our Intelligence Department instructors break down what Marines need to know.

Inside this issue:
• What Past Wars with Arab Armies Teach Us About a Possible War Against China
• From Ancient Stratagems to Informatized War
• Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Warfare
• PLA Navy Modernization and Littoral Implications
• Vulnerability Analysis of PLA Amphibious Assaults
• Urban Warfare in a Taiwan Invasion

Whether you’re an Intelligence/Tactics Instructor, operator, or simply a student of modern warfare, this issue frames the PLA in ways that are relevant, timely, and operationally urgent.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/15uSvDBKNHtxzi2zExcbFzCgBSJO8CJuS/view?usp=sharing

08/01/2025

MCTOG Network Engagement Course 4-25 is in Hawaii

MCTOG is delivering the Corps’ premier network engagement training at Marine Corps Base Hawaii. NEC teaches Marines to navigate the battlespace as a web of interconnected relationships and activities, helping commanders shape, influence, and outmaneuver adversaries in both physical and information environments.

The two-week, scenario-driven course, led by Marines from operations, fires, EOD, intelligence, and information disciplines, strengthens participants’ ability to:
• Synchronize military and civil actions
• Strengthen and leverage friendly networks
• Produce operational effects that give commanders the edge

NEC graduates leave prepared to turn connections into combat power—delivering decisive results in complex environments.

06/27/2025

Congratulations to the Graduates of MCTOG’s Advanced Maneuver Warfare Course 25-3!

Today we recognize the Marines who have completed the demanding Advanced Maneuver Warfare Course (AMWC) 25-3—earning certification as Operations Tactics Instructors (OTI) and Intelligence Tactics Instructors (ITI).

This course hones warfighting professionals capable of shaping operations at every level. Through deliberate planning, Tactical Decision Games, and practical tactical reps, graduates developed:
• Advanced operational planning skills under time constraints
• A refined understanding of warfighting functions oriented on the adversary
• Critical thinking under pressure and the ability to teach others to do the same

These Marines now return to the Fleet with sharpened minds, stronger leadership skills, and a deepened commitment to maneuver warfare excellence.

05/21/2025

Last week, MCTOG came together for a time-honored tradition: Warrior’s Night.

This event provided our Uniformed and Civilian Marines with the opportunity to step back from the intensity of training, reflect on shared experiences, honor our profession, and strengthen the enduring camaraderie that sets us apart and binds us together through shared purpose and service.

From sea stories to solemn toasts, Warrior’s Night reminded us all of the grit, pride, and legacy that define the Marine Corps.

05/16/2025

Our Commanding Officer, Colonel Grayson, addressed the graduating class of Network Engagement Course 3-25, commending their dedication and highlighting the importance of their training to the Marine Corps mission.

His remarks underscored the importance of developing adaptable, mission-ready Marines who are prepared to meet the challenges of today’s operational environment.

Address

Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC)
Twentynine Palms, CA

Website

https://linktr.ee/mctog

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group - MCTOG posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Want your organization to be the top-listed Government Service in Twentynine Palms?