US Marines – Based upon their recent successes in Afghanistan, the Marines and Special Operations Command will strive to collaborate more closely in the future.

• Washington Post: Marines, Special Operations Command Increase Ties

US Marines – An overview of current Marine procurement programs including the Osprey, Advance Amphibious Assault Vehicle, Landing Craft Air Cushion, Joint Strike Fighter, Lightweight Howitzer, and others.

• Sea Power: An Eclectic Overview of Selected Marine Corps Programs

Background – Operations Other Than War – The US Secretary of Defense has stated he is against using US military forces for operations other than war. This is quite a change from the prior administration.

• Washington Times: Rumsfeld takes dim view of U.S. peacekeeping role

Background – Saudi Arabia – Thomas Friedman on two potential futures for the Saudis.

• New York Times: 1 Country, 2 Futures