The US Marine Corps has greenlit the use of optical sights during the Combat Pistol Program (CPP) qualification, marking the first time the accessory is permitted for the certification.
Released by the Marine Administrative Message, the step authorizes the Romeo M17 red dot optic for use on service pistols during practicals under the evaluation.
The device is specifically built for the M17 and M18 Modular Handgun Systems, the military versions of the Sig Sauer P320 9-millimeter system, which were adopted as the US Armed Forces’ standard sidearms in 2017.
The Romeo 17 received a dedicated NATO stock number in 2023, enabling the technology as a “standardized material for all NATO members and partner countries.”
Washington approved the optics the following year as part of an accessory suite for the Modular Handgun Systems.
“Red dot optics have been shown to improve pistol lethality,” Training and Education Command Spokesperson Maj. Hector Infante commented in an interview with Task & Purpose.
“Accordingly, some units that routinely operate with pistols have been authorized to use unit funds to procure approved red dot sights as organizational equipment.”
US Marines Combat Pistol Program
Introduced in 2012, the CPP is an annual mandatory marksmanship evaluation that requires warfighters to engage targets at up to 25 yards (75 feet/23 meters) and score at least 264 out of 400 points to qualify.
Although every marine trains as a rifleman, only roles such as officers, senior enlisted personnel, and those assigned to security duties are specifically mandated to take the assessment.
“Following classroom instruction and non-fire sessions, Marines participate in live-fire drills – training blocks one through three,” the US Marine Corps said, explaining the process.
“During these training blocks, range coaches have the opportunity to mentor and guide Marines during practical application … which results in a more qualified, skilled and effective Marine with the service pistol.”
