MWSS-174 showcases combat readiness, deepens allied integration at KMEP 26.1

KUNSAN AIR BASE, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea — Marine Wing Support Squadron 174, part of Marine Aircraft Group 24, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, completed a Marine Corps combat readiness evaluation during Korean Marine Exchange Program 26.1 from March 14 to April 19, 2026, validating its ability to project power and integrate with allied forces in the Indo-Pacific.

A formal assessment designed to test a unit’s ability to perform its core mission-essential tasks in a simulated combat environment, the evaluation measured the squadron’s capacity to conduct distributed, minimal-signature aviation ground support operations such as refueling and rearming aircraft. Executing these operations alongside Republic of Korea Marines strengthened interoperability and directly enhanced regional readiness.

“Like the Gryphon on our patch, MWSS-174 enables operations in the air and on the ground,” said Maj. Kevin Kaiser, operations officer of MWSS-174. “We provide the ‘teeth and talons’ that keep the Wing in the fight.”

Integration with host-nation partners was central to forward arming and refueling point operations. Working with Republic of Korea Marines, the squadron established mobile sites to quickly refuel and rearm aircraft in austere environments. Intensive firefighting drills reinforced those efforts, with teams practicing coordinated responses to simulated aircraft mishaps and structural fires to maintain continuous airfield safety.

The squadron also conducted a comprehensive mass casualty exercise, a high-pressure drill that tested Marines’ and Sailors’ ability to provide immediate medical triage and evacuation under simulated combat conditions to sustain personnel readiness during large-scale incidents.

Engineering teams demonstrated base recovery after attack and airfield damage repair protocols by rapidly patching, leveling, and clearing runways following simulated strikes to resume flight operations without delay. Complemented by airfield construction and survey assessments, these efforts showed the unit’s ability to quickly transform damaged or undeveloped surfaces into viable landing zones.

Integrating airfield damage repair protocols across different military branches provided a critical validation of training, underscoring the ability to work seamlessly with Republic of Korea Marines and other U.S. military services to ensure uninterrupted aviation support. “When the mission is on the line, we speak the same language as our fellow services to get the job done,” said Kaiser. “With the successful completion of our MCCRE and KMEP 26.1, we have validated our ability to move forward, integrate with our allies, and provide 1st MAW and III MEF a lethal, expeditionary capability.”

While the evaluation was a success, leaders emphasized preparation for future challenges. “My guidance to the squadron is simple: Do not lose the edge. Stay disciplined in the basics. Continue to build cohesive teams, and remain mentally agile,” said Lt. Col. John Fulton, commanding officer of MWSS-174. “The future fight will be dynamic, but if we maintain this level of warfighting professionalism and commitment, Marine Wing Support Squadron 174 will be ready.”

The completion of the evaluation marks a new chapter of readiness for MWSS-174. From mass casualty drills to airfield construction, the squadron validated its ability to extend the operational reach and endurance of MAG-24, 1st MAW, and joint expeditionary aviation operations.