The US Marine Corps has sought counter-uncrewed aerial system (C-UAS) Adversary Forces (ADFOR) support for multiple training exercises across various Marine Corps bases.
Training days will take place in October 2026 within designated restricted airspace and range envelopes at Camp Lejeune. Standard operating altitudes are authorized up to 1,000 feet Above Ground Level (AGL) in restricted zones, with Airspace Access Authorisations (AAAs) typically restricted to 200 to 500 feet AGL. Night and Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations are authorised strictly within active restricted range airspace.
The training includes high-volume UAS swarm threats to test effectiveness of Marine Corps tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs). A ‘Red Cell’ will create an environment to mirror adversarial threats. The contractor will provide feedback to commanders with data regarding observations, assessment of TTPs and best practice recommendations.
The UAS will be consistent with what near peer adversaries are using in real time. The assets used by the contractor in this training requirement are not required to be Blue UAS or NDAA compliant. The UAS platforms are authorised to carry inert, simulated payloads (such as inert drop-mechanisms or training LED visual effects) to simulate tactical battlefield effects and allow the training audience to recognise physical weaponisation.
For more information
US Marine Corps sources sought notice at SAM.gov
Image: US Marine Corps Cpl. Brian Vile operates a Skydio drone as part of a C-UAS field test at Mount Bundey Training Area, NT, Australia, July 11, 2024. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Migel A. Reynosa)
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