What is a primary goal of the Marine Corps as established in their foundational documents?

The primary goal of the Marine Corps, as established in its foundational documents, is to ensure national security. This objective is essential to the Corps' mission, as it underscores the Marine Corps’ role in protecting the United States and its interests against any threats. The emphasis on national security aligns with the broader objectives of the military as a whole, which includes defending the nation, deterring aggression, and maintaining freedom.

This focus on national security is rooted in the fundamental purpose of the armed forces, which is to defend the country against external threats and ensure the safety of its citizens. While the other choices may represent certain functions or initiatives within the broader context of military operations, they do not encapsulate the overarching aim of the Marine Corps as clearly as national security does. Activities like conducting AR exercises, promoting international relations, or engaging in cyber warfare can all play a role within the framework of national security but are not the central goals in themselves. Rather, they serve as means to achieve the ultimate goal of safeguarding the nation.