Marines to Compete in ‘Hunter-Killer’ Drone Tournaments Across Five Bases

The Marine Corps is increasing its commitment to unmanned warfare through a comprehensive fleet-wide drone competition series designed to develop a new generation of skilled drone operators. Marines are set to face a series of challenges that will evaluate their skills in drone employment, speed, agility, and hunter-killer tactics. The inaugural competition is scheduled to take place in November at Marine Corps Base Quantico.

A recent service message from Marine Corps spokesperson Maj. Hector Infante indicates that all Marine units are urged to establish six-person drone teams for participation. Teams are required to comprise a diverse group of officers, noncommissioned officers, and first-person-view (FPV) drone pilots, all of whom must adhere to rigorous standards concerning maturity, skill, and safety clearance.

“This initiative is focused on fostering a culture,” stated Nathan Ecelbarger, president of the United States National Drone Association (USNDA). “The transition from bureaucracy to battlefield readiness is underway as drones are being placed directly into the hands of warfighters.”

The competition represents a significant initiative by the Marine Corps aimed at enhancing drone proficiency throughout the fleet. Founded in January, the Marine Corps Attack Drone Team (MCADT) is poised to play a pivotal role in developing best practices and establishing a standard for others to follow. This summer, the MCADT is set to compete against the Army's prestigious 75th Ranger Regiment in the first-ever Drone Crucible Championship, taking place in Florida.

The drone competition program distinguishes itself from traditional training models by being fast-moving and adaptive in nature. The activities are drawing comparisons to high-stakes sports tournaments, as elite service members engage in simulations against enemy squads, convoys, and aerial targets.

“This is not merely a contest for the sake of rivalry,” Ecelbarger stated. “The focus is on bridging the divide between cutting-edge technology and its application in combat scenarios.”

In a recent announcement, it has been specified that drones eligible for participation must weigh under 20 pounds. Additionally, these drones must be legally compliant and have a cost cap of $2,000, not including goggles and support equipment. Marine Corps bases located in Quantico, Camp Butler in Japan, Hawaii, Camp Pendleton in California, and Camp Lejeune in North Carolina are set to host a series of regional events throughout the upcoming year.

A recent announcement detailed the introduction of a new initiative known as the “Summer Augment Program.” This program provides high-achieving Marines with the opportunity to compete from April to August, with the potential to secure a full-time position within the MCADT.

The U.S. military is actively adapting its strategies based on insights gained from real-world drone warfare, particularly in conflicts such as Ukraine. Ecelbarger has urged troops to engage with commercial simulators and to monitor global developments in unmanned systems.

“The battlefield is evolving at an unprecedented pace,” he stated. “Marines are urged to adopt a mindset focused on continuous learning and adaptability.”

In the face of logistical challenges related to airspace coordination and acquisition, leaders express optimism that the competition model will catalyze innovation. The Marine Corps considers this a vital move in gearing up for potential future confrontations with adversaries that heavily depend on advanced drone technology, including nations such as China, Russia, and Iran.