'PhilipG', earlier recent posts have highlighted the use of AM-2 Matting and probably soon some new updated version of AM-X Matting or whatever it may be called then, to be used as a temporary surface for VLs, or Runny Landings if AM-2 runway long enough. An entire USMC base called '29 Palms' in California is made out of this stuff (I'm guessing to test the AM-2 in all the variations of use).
Here is a thread start:
http://www.pprune.org/military-aircr...ml#post7767535
Today the USMC want to become MARINES again, operating from Sea Bases/Operational Maneuver From The Sea (OMFTS) and other acronyms. Here is a recent news blog article about their wish to NOT be a second Land Army (whilst temporary close to shore FOBs are in the mix to give options/variations of use but mainly use flat decks at sea for F-35B ops). Last year an Ex. Bold Alligator highlighted this new 'back to the future' MARINE direction:
Marine Corps Will Push for Return to Maritime Roots (UPDATED) - Blog