US Marine Corps is running out of time to train MQ-9 Reaper drone operators

The US Marine Corps has steadily received funding for MQ-9 Reaper drones. However, the service is buying more drones than it can train operators to operate them.

Here's What We Know

In fiscal year (FY) 2023, the US Congress allocated funds to the Marine Corps to purchase five MQ-9 Reaper drones. In FY2024, the service intends to secure funding to purchase five more drones from General Atomics.

There are two ways to solve the operator shortage. The first would be to sign a contract with General Dynamics, under which the drone manufacturer could train Marines. The second option is to create a so-called "naval school for drone operators."

Marine Corps leaders do not yet know where the new instructor base could appear or how much it would all cost. However, the service is confident that it can no longer rely on the US Air Force, which has been using the MQ-9 Reaper for surveillance, reconnaissance and reconnaissance since 2007.

It is also worth noting that General Atomics already has facilities in the US where it provides training for US and foreign customers. This could be a potential solution for the US Marine Corps.

Source: Breaking Defense