What might replace tank fire support for the US Marine Corps?
Short answerA direct-fire variant of a large wheeled amphibious vehicle is a more plausible substitute than a return to heavy tank formations.
NotesA direct-fire vehicle could be derived from the Marine Corps' new eight-wheeled personnel carrier. Replacing the troop compartment with a 105 mm or perhaps 120 mm gun would create a mobile weapon able to accompany missile detachments ashore. It would sacrifice passenger capacity and some heavy-tank qualities in exchange for easier expeditionary sustainment. The proposal preserves direct-fire support while adapting the vehicle to amphibious operations.