U.S. Marine Corps training 100 pilots for cutting-edge MQ-9 Reaper drone program

Arlington County: United States Marine Corps has achieved a significant milestone as it successfully trains 100 pilots for MQ-9 Reaper, signaling a strategic push to bolster its drone program for extended reach and enhanced reconnaissance capabilities. Corps, which initially leased MQ-9 Reaper in 2018, secured funding for drone's purchase in 2020, coinciding with establishment of Reaper military occupational specialty of 7318.  

In a table development outlined in 2022 aviation plan, Marine Corps ackwledges training challenges, having achieved only 38 of required 68 pilots. Despite this, Corps remains committed to integration of MQ-9 Reaper, distinguishing itself as first group five drone operator. 

Operational units and MQ-9 Reaper’s capabilities 

Originally fielded to U.S. Air Force in 2007, MQ-9 Reaper played a pivotal role in global operations, tably during wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Marine Corps' adoption of this advanced drone signifies a leap into group five capabilities, surpassing previous reliance on group three drones like RQ-21A Blackjack.

Presently, three operational units handle MQ-9 Reaper – VMU-1 in Yuma, Arizona; UX-24 at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland; and VMU-3 at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. VMU-1, pioneer squadron, commenced Reaper operations in 2018, providing intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support in U.S. Central Command.

Reaper's deployment extends to a diverse range of operations, including coastal and border surveillance, weapons tracking, embargo enforcement, humanitarian/disaster assistance, peacekeeping support, and counter-narcotic operations. Plans are underway to establish MQ-9A Fleet Replacement Squadron in Cherry Point, rth Carolina, showcasing Marine Corps' commitment to expanding drone capabilities. 

Former Commandant Gen. David Berger's question on exploring options beyond commissioned officers for Reaper pilots reflects Marine Corps' adaptive stance. Despite challenges in meeting required number of fixed-wing pilots, Corps maintains its commitment to utilizing commissioned officers for drone operations.