In response to the escalating threat posed by unmanned aerial systems (UAS), the Marine Corps is urgently advancing its counter-drone capabilities. Officials at the Modern Day Marine military exposition in Washington, D.C., emphasized the critical need for these systems as adversaries like Russia and China continue to develop their own drone stocks. According to Steve Bowdren, the Marine Corps program executive officer for land systems, “We’ve done great, but the enemy’s got a vote…It’s not there today, but it’s really close.”
The Marine Corps has made considerable progress over the past five years, moving from reliance on Stinger missile systems to developing integrated systems like the Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS) and the Medium Range Intercept Capability (MRIC), which can target both drones and cruise missiles. Anticipated to be operational within the next year, these advancements come as inexpensive commercial drones are increasingly used in conflict zones, notably in the recent war in Ukraine. Brig. Gen. Stephen Lightfoot, director of the service’s Capabilities Development Directorate, observed, “Small UAS and counter-UAS are probably the biggest change that we’ve seen recently,” in reference to the changing character of warfare.
Marines are not just waiting for new technology but are actively training with available tools. Just last week, Marines with the 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion employed shotguns, machine guns, and rifles to counter single-person drones in simulated exercises.
To centralize efforts in countering drone threats, a new “fusion center” has been established at the Marine base in Quantico, Virginia. This center aims to consolidate the innovation process, moving capabilities from the science and technology sector through acquisition to fielding effectively. The focus on counter-drone technology is fueled by the recent events in the Middle East and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, where the use of small UAS and commercial technologies has been notable.
Lightfoot highlighted the urgency, stating, “The longer it takes us to get to it…we’re going to get farther and farther behind.” The fusion center’s comprehensive approach aims to ensure that the Marine Corps stays ahead in this rapidly evolving threat landscape.
As the Marine Corps accelerates the deployment of counter-drone systems and the new Multi-Mission Reconnaissance Craft to enhance sensor coverage, the message is clear: the threat from unmanned systems is real and immediate.
Relevant articles:
– Marine Corps Says It Wants Counter-Drone Capabilities ‘Yesterday’ as It Rushes to Roll Out New Systems, Military.com
– Marine Corps eyeing more recon boats from Australian ‘Whiskey Project’, Yahoo
– New Marine Corps ‘fusion center’ to focus on counter-drone tech, DefenseScoop
– Portuguese-Flagged Ship Is Hit Far in Arabian Sea, Raising Concerns over Houthi Rebel Capabilities, Military.com