U.S. Marines, defense officials and industry partners will converge on Washington, D.C., from April 29 to May 1 for Modern Day Marine 2025, the Corps’ annual exposition showcasing operating concepts, modernization priorities and emerging technologies. The event will be held at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.
Organizers say this year’s program will offer a direct look at the Marine Corps’ direction under Force Design, featuring panels and briefings from leaders, uniformed personnel and acquisition officials. Confirmed speakers include the Commandant of the Marine Corps, the Acting Chief of Naval Operations, the Deputy Commander of U.S. Transportation Command, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Sustainment Hon. Erica Plath, and senior officers from allied and partner nations.
“Our purpose is to be ready when the Nation is least ready; we are the force in readiness,” said Gen. Eric M. Smith, Commandant of the Marine Corps. “As the Nation’s premier expeditionary force, we possess a unique ability to maneuver, fight, and sustain ourselves in any clime and place. Modern Day Marine provides us with an opportunity to discuss our implementation of Force Design, our adaptation to the changing character of war, and our sustained commitment to increasing lethality across all domains. The theme for this year is, ‘Ready today, first to fight tomorrow.’ I look forward to the valuable opportunity for us to collaborate with our industry partners, our sister services, and our allies and partners to make certain we are ready for the future fight.”
Journalists, industry attendees and the public are slated to see updates on platforms and weapons systems and hear lessons learned from the service’s ongoing campaign of learning. Service acquisition leaders will brief major portfolios and initiatives for representatives across the U.S. industrial base.
Roughly 350 exhibitors are expected to occupy about 84,000 square feet with interactive displays, hands-on demonstrations and equipment. Programming will span areas such as next-generation weapons and platforms; crisis response and deterrence; unmanned and autonomous systems plus counter-drone and air-defense capabilities; training and simulation; logistics and sustainment for contested expeditionary operations; and historical exhibits.
The expo coincides with the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary observance, and will include special history presentations, static displays of antique weapons and platforms, and the original commission for Maj. Samuel Nicholas, the first Commandant of the Marine Corps.
“Modern Day Marine is more than an event – it is a reaffirmation of values and traditions that unite our Corps,” said retired Lt. Gen. Charles Chiarotti, President and CEO of the Marine Corps Association. “By honoring our storied legacies, showcasing cutting-edge advancements, and providing unique opportunities for professional growth and family support, we strengthen the bonds between Marines past, present and future. This gathering reminds us all of our shared commitment to excellence, our growth mindset, and the extraordinary individuals who embody our motto: Semper Fidelis.”
Beyond the exhibition floor, organizers plan live demonstrations and interactive experiences highlighting new equipment and capabilities.
“For almost 250 years, the Marine Corps has forged a legacy of tenacity and adaptation to overcome all challenges in every clime and place through a hard-earned legacy of warrior excellence,” said Ret. GySgt Rob Brooks, national director of events for the Marine Corps League. “This year’s Modern Day Marine showcases the tools and techniques that will keep us on the forward edge of the spear when facing our country’s foes on future battlefields. Come and be a part of helping to shape the future of our Corps at Modern Day Marine 2025.”
More information and registration details are available at: https://marinemilitaryexpos.com/
