This is United States Marine Corps USMC manual Marine Corps Tactical Publication MCTP 3-01A Scouting and Patrolling July 2020. The evolution of modern warfare prompts the need for advanced and modernized tactics which provide Marines with enhanced scouting and patrolling procedures. Essential in meeting this requirement was the integration of Marine Corps Interim Publication (MCIP) 3-02.1i, Combat Hunter with Marine Corps Tactical Publication (MCTP) 3-01A, Scouting and Patrolling. As witnessed during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, the combat tested tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP) contained herein have matured into effective tools, which—when paired with enhanced scouting techniques and a hunter's mindset to "always be the hunter, never the prey"—are highly effective in conducting patrols. This mindset continues to be taught throughout the training and education continuum for both officers and enlisted Marines alike, from entry-level training to professional military education.
Scouting and patrolling skills are an essential part of all tactical operations which assist the commander in developing a deeper understanding of the operational environment, locating threats, determining enemy or adversary intentions, and developing effective methods for targeting them. Marines must be able to make rapid and effective decisions, as well as identify threats from inside or outside of friendly areas. All Marines, regardless of military occupational specialty, should be capable of effectively participating in basic patrolling missions. Therefore, the TTP included herein are applicable across the Marine air-ground task force.
This publication supersedes MCTP 3-01A, Scouting and Patrolling, dated 17 April 2001, erratum dated 2 May 2016 and cancels MCIP 3-02.1i, Combat Hunter, dated 4 February 2011.