Unleashing Navy Power: MAKO Challenge 2025 Boosts Readiness and Lethality

The MAKO series equips Reserve Sailors with real-world experience, focusing on maritime operations center (MOC) scenarios within the operational level of war (OLW) environment.

Rear Adm. Kenneth Blackmon, Vice Commander of the U.S. Fleet Forces Command (USFF), noted that this initiative aligns with the Chief of Naval Operations (CNO)’s ‘Project 33 target.’ It aims to prepare Reserve Sailors for immediate contribution in MOC units.

One of the key objectives is “Fighting from the MOC,” part of CNO Adm. Lisa Franchetti’s broader Project 33 targets. This strategy aims to enhance the Navy’s strategic capacity using existing resources efficiently. According to the CNO’s Navigation Plan, empowered MOCs will offer enhanced information and decision-making capabilities to maintain initiative during crises or conflicts.

The plan includes a goal that by 2027, all fleet headquarters, especially starting with the Pacific Fleet, will possess MOCs ready and proficient in crucial command and control functions, evaluated by MOC Training Teams.

Blackmon emphasized the significance of these training investments for the Reserve Component, drawing on lessons from active-duty operations worldwide.

As the Navy faces numerous global challenges, the Reserve prioritizes training to boost readiness. Programs like MAKO deliver rigorous preparation for Reserve Sailors, equipping them for roles in exercises and potential active duty assignments.

Reserve Sailors involved in MAKO enhance the Navy’s readiness through practical training, echoing the priorities of Navy leadership within OLW scenarios.

Senior Navy leaders have engaged directly with Reserve Sailors and mentors on the watch floor, observing the integration of active and Reserve components in action.