WASHINGTON — The Marine Corps' top leader announced a new "trial-by-combat" program Friday, adding another controversial step in his campaign to stem self-destructive behavior amongst junior enlisted Marines.

Known as the Marine Corps Wager of Battle, it's a pilot program loosely based on ancient Germanic law. Commandant Gen. James Amos said his intent is to give commanders another tool to maintain good order and discipline in their units and cut back on redundant legal administrative procedures.

"Any evidence of non-compliance to institutional standards is grounds for non-punitive or administrative action," said a spokesman with the Staff Judge Advocate. "This is directly in keeping with the Commandant's intent to 'fight and win in the barracks.'"