Marines Deployed With New Close Combat Assault Rations

The Marine Corps has introduced a compact, lightweight ration designed for the initial 72 hours of combat operations.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Military

Marines Deployed With New Close Combat Assault Rations

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Marine units have begun deploying with the new Close Combat Assault Ration (C-CAR), a package providing the nutritional value of three standard meals. This transition aims to reduce supply weight and improve agility during the opening stages of a conflict.

Why it matters

By eliminating the need for heating and utensils, the ration increases the load capacity available for ammunition and mission-essential gear. Its design also mitigates the risk associated with conducting frequent resupply missions in hostile environments.

The C-CAR package provides the nutritional equivalent of three traditional Meals, Ready-to-Eat in a single daily unit. The rations are available in three specific menu options: spaghetti, chicken burrito bowl, and beef stew.

The players

13th Marine Expeditionary Unit

This specialized unit provides an expeditionary force in readiness for rapid response to crises and contingencies.

United States Marine Corps

This branch of the United States Armed Forces is responsible for conducting amphibious and expeditionary operations.

The details

The rations come in compact squeeze pouches that do not require water or heating, facilitating use during the first 72 hours of intense activity. This pre-packaged configuration is intended to support units by minimizing the necessity for field modifications.

The C-CAR entered service in 2025.
The 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit prepared for deployment on the USS Makin Island in Summer 2026.
Frontline units are currently deploying with the new rations as of October 2026.

Political Context

The introduction of the C-CAR follows established Department of Defense efforts to optimize soldier load-out weights. Opposition critics and some logistics planners often argue that replacing established MRE structures risks nutritional gaps for troops operating beyond the 72-hour threshold.

The adoption of these rations streamlines the load requirements for individual Marines, directly impacting their mobility and available gear capacity. Taxpayers should note that these new configurations aim to decrease the frequency of dangerous resupply missions during the opening phase of combat.

The takeaway

The C-CAR represents a shift toward specialized nutrition tailored for the critical, high-intensity first three days of a mission. Future success will depend on how effectively these units can integrate the new pouches alongside standard MREs during extended field rotations.