US Army Launches Multi-Domain Command-Pacific With 7th Infantry Division Merger

The US Army has established the 7th Infantry Division Multi-Domain Command-Pacific (7th ID MDC-PAC), combining the 7th Infantry Division with the 1st Multi-Domain Task Force to create a new theater-level formation focused on Indo-Pacific operations.

The redesignation took place at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington State, where soldiers cased and uncased unit colors to mark the transition.

According to the service, the new segment integrates traditional ground maneuver forces with cyber, space, electronic warfare, intelligence, and autonomous capabilities under a single headquarters.

Following the launch, the roughly 12,000-soldier formation will support Pacific operations as well as upcoming joint and multinational exercises across the region.

“This merger isn’t an ending,” said Col. Charles Kean, deputy commanding officer of 7th ID MDC-PAC and former commander of 1st Multi-Domain Task Force.

“It’s just another milestone as we continue to move at the pace of relevance.”

Cross Domain Contact Layer Strategy

Central to the command is the Cross Domain Contact Layer concept, which links sensors, unmanned systems, precision weapons, and digital networks across land, air, sea, space, and cyberspace to support rapid decision-making and dispersed operations.

Two Stryker infantry brigades, a combat aviation brigade, and five 1st Multi-Domain Task Force battalions existing before the organizational shift will be retained under the 7th ID MDC-PAC.

“Our division will employ capabilities such as unmanned surface vessels; long-range, one-way attack drones; and launched effects,” said Maj. Gen. Bernard Harrington, commanding general of 7th ID MDC-PAC.

“Every radar that emits, every node that transmits, every headquarters that commands, we aim to hold continuously at risk alongside our joint partners and allies.”