This would be separate from another Marine unit that is earmarked specifically to assist in training forces of African nations, the official said. That unit was potentially available in the Benghazi aftermath, but was not equipped to assist in such a crisis.

Congress also ordered the Pentagon following Benghazi to develop a plan to increase the number of Marines in the embassy security guard program by up to 1,000.

The Marines are looking at ways to improve security at embassies and other diplomatic facilities.