Modest proposal.
We should consider enlarging the Tank Detachment assigned to the MEU from 4 to perhaps 6 and as many as 8 tanks.
Why? In light of the decisions made regarding our Infantry transports its essential that they have on call fire power and even ad hoc, in extremis route proving ability. Additionally the armored threat is increasing in the Pacific region, anti-armor weapon flourishing and since we won't have a vehicle mounting a 30mm cannon (as planned for with the canceled EFV), fire support will be at a premium.
Aviation assets will not always be there, whether its because of weather, supporting SOCOM or duties with the Naval Air Forces, which makes attached firepower that is under the direct command of the GCE and can't be yanked away essential.
Increasing the number of tanks assigned to each MEU would go a long way in making up for an obvious gap in firepower.
