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Marine Corps Tests Distributed Operations in Steel Knight 25

February 13, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

Steel Knight 25 tested distributed operations and stand-in forces.
The exercise validated kill webs and contested logistics.
The Marine Corps is developing the S²D framework for force insertion.
Distributed operations demand unprecedented delegation of decision authority.

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Strategic Implications

The Marine Corps' distributed operations concept may signal a significant shift in military strategy, which could influence other branches and allies. The emphasis on digital interoperability and speed of adaptation suggests a focus on operational flexibility and resilience, which may become a key differentiator in future conflicts.

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What Happened

Exercise Validates Stand-In Forces and Kill Webs in Contested Environments

The Marine Corps conducted Steel Knight 25, a critical campaign laboratory that tested distributed operations and stand-in forces in contested environments. The exercise validated kill webs and contested logistics, and demonstrated the importance of digital interoperability and speed of adaptation. The Marine Corps is developing the S²D framework for force insertion, which prioritizes survivability, sustainability, and duration. According to Breaking Defense, the exercise revealed significant challenges and opportunities for the Marine Corps as it continues to develop its distributed operations concept.

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