This United States Marine Corps USMC manual, Marine Corps Tactical Publication MCTP 3-20B Aviation Ground Support May 2021, applies the philosophies in Marine Corps Doctrinal Publication (MCDP) 4, Logistics, and MCDP 3, Expeditionary Operations, to Marine Corps Aviation Ground Support (AGS). It is the link between Marine Corps Warfighting Publication (MCWP) 3-20, Aviation Operations, and the tactics, techniques, and procedures contained in other Marine Corps aviation and logistic publications. In establishing the doctrinal basis for the planning and execution of AGS, this publication provides the basis for employment of AGS by the aviation combat element of the Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) during the prosecution of war and other operations that support the Marine Corps' mission.
Marine Corps AGS is an integral part of the MAGTF because it extends its tactical reach and flexibility for the aviation combat element. This publication provides a common basis for understanding Marine Corps AGS and the manner in which the MAGTF can tactically exploit those capabilities. Therefore, this publication is intended for commanders and staff officers who are responsible for the planning and execution of aviation operations and for personnel involved in the execution of aviation operations. It is also intended for other doctrine centers, joint and multinational staffs, professional military educational activities, and other activities that require an understanding of Marine Corps AGS.
