R 251553Z FEB 26 MARADMIN 064/26 MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC AVN ASM// SUBJ/2026 MARINE AVIATION READINESS AND OPERATIONS SUMMIT (MAROS)// POC/J.L. ADAIR/MAJ/UNIT: HQMC AVN ASM/TEL: DSN 223-9875/ TEL: COM (703)693-9875/EMAIL: [email protected]// POC/J.E. GOODRICH/LTCOL/UNIT: HQMC AVN ASM/TEL: COM (703)614-3606/EMAIL: [email protected]// GENTEXT/RMKS/1. As we observe the increasingly rapid rate at which the character of warfare is changing, the Marine Corps obligation to confront these challenges head-on becomes ever more critical. Marine Aviation must lead the Service’s efforts to proactively evolve our platforms, personnel, and operating concepts to sustain our warfighting edge. In support of these initiatives, the Deputy  Commandant for Aviation (DCA) will host the 2026 Marine Aviation Readiness and Operations Summit (MAROS) at the Hyatt Regency Dallas in Dallas, Texas, from 11-15 May 2026. 2. The focus of this year’s MAROS is the 2026 Marine Aviation Plan (https://media.defense.gov/2026/Feb/10/2003873872/-1/-1/0/260210- USMC-2026-AVIATION-PLAN.PDF), which emphasizes the need to balance crisis response with modernization for the future fight.  This effort embraces innovative concepts and highlights need to evolve into a digital, data-centric force. Central to this transformation is the integration of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) to field the most ready, lethal, and combat-capable ACE. Key concepts from the plan include leveraging AI/ML-enabled tools for dynamic aviation supply, predictive maintenance, and optimized operations to increase aircraft readiness and improve the speed and quality of decision-making. These sustainment tools, coupled with mid-life upgrades, will ensure a ready force now, while we modernize for the future. DCA’s intent for MAROS 2026 is to capture the needs and priorities of the Operational Advisory Groups (OAG) to ensure Marine Aviation continues to deliver unrivaled combat power and is prepared to meet the demands of the next era of conflict. 3. MAROS is intended to allow subject matter experts from within Marine Aviation to conduct annual meetings in one centralized location. MAROS consolidates and synergizes efforts previously held at different times and locations, reducing aggregate costs and enabling one forum that allows a professional exchange of information on topics essential to Marine Aviation to include readiness, aviation programs, warfighting lessons learned, professional development, and tactics. 4. OAGs are directed to conduct the majority of their community’s work prior to MAROS. MAROS is intended to be a venue where senior leader guidance, cross-community discussions, and industry engagement can be used to provide refinement to OAG deliverables. The OAG out briefs at MAROS will be in the form of info-only briefs to senior leaders that will inform follow-on conversations and future community initiatives. Decision briefs requiring MAB approval must be coordinated with HQMC Aviation via separate correspondence through the appropriate HQMC AVN Branch Head. 5. All MAROS events will take place in conference rooms at the Hyatt Regency Dallas, 300 Reunion Blvd, Dallas, Texas 75207. 6. Overview of events. A separate and more detailed schedule, to include registration, will be sent out from each POC listed in paragraph 10. 7. Uniform will be smart casual (polo/collared shirt, sport coat optional) for meetings taking place during normal working hours at the Hyatt Regency Dallas. Date            Event