Each MPS squadron carries the majority of the supporting weapons systems,
equipment, and supplies needed to sustain a Marine Expeditionary Brigade
(MEB) consisting of 16,500 men for 30 days. There are nine MPS deployed
to USCINCPAC AOR; MPS-2, five MAERSK class ships, MPS-3, four AMSEA class
ships.
The MPSs have temperature and humidity controlled spaces for long-term
cargo preservation. Each ship is RO/RO configured and capable of a
self-sustained offload alongside a pier or in-stream. The MPSs are equipped
with NAVAIR-certified helo decks which are primarily intended for set down
transfer of personnel and hand-held cargo, not for equipment offload. MPSs
carry sophisticated cargo handling and offload systems to include Navy
self-propelled lighterage and fuel/water hoses that allow for the
in-stream discharge of all cargo.
