U.S. Marines will gather April 29 to May 1 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center to present the latest in operating concepts, modernization efforts, and new technology innovations during the Marine Corps’ annual military exposition.

Modern Day Marine 2025 panels and presentation will provide a comprehensive look at the direction the Marine Corps is going, straight from the leaders, officials and rank-and-file Marines responsible for achieving the Marine Corps’ vision in Force Design.

Attendees will have the opportunity to hear keynote speeches and main briefing stage panels from dignitaries such as 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, senior military leaders from allies and security partners from around the world, and others. 

Journalists, industry representatives, and members of the public will hear updates on the Marines’ latest platforms and weapons systems, share in lessons learned from Force Design’s campaign of learning, and witness the latest investments in and solutions for enhancing Marines’ lethality on the battlefield and ability to shape the operational environment pre-conflict.

“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.”

Service acquisition professionals will provide updates on major portfolios and initiatives to gathered representatives from across the U.S. industrial base. Approximately 350 exhibitors from industry partners will display cutting edge products and services used by Marines on and off the battlefield, filling 84,000 square feet of floor space with interactive displays, hands-on product demonstrations, equipment and more. Exhibits, demonstrations, and seminars will cover a wide range of topics relevant to military personnel, their families, and national security stakeholders such as:

• Next-generation weapons systems and platforms

• Crisis response and efforts to deter conflict

• Unmanned systems and autonomous technologies

• Counter-unmanned aerial systems and air defense capabilities

• Training and simulation technologies for realistic and immersive training experiences

• Logistics and sustainment solutions to support expeditionary operations in contested environments

• Historical and battle legacy displays

This year's expo coincides with the Marine Corps’ yearlong celebration of its 250th anniversary. Special programming at this year’s Modern Day Marine will celebrate the Marines’ proud battle legacy, such as special history presentations, static displays of antique weapons and platforms, and the original commission for the first Commandant of the Marine Corps, Maj. Samuel Nicholas.

"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.”

In addition to the exhibition hall, Modern Day Marine 2025 features live demonstrations and interactive displays, allowing attendees to experience firsthand the capabilities of the latest military technologies and equipment.

“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.”

For more information and to register for the event, visit Modern Day Marine 2025 website.

Modern Day Marine - April 29 - May 1, 2025 Washington D.C. (marinemilitaryexpos.com)