From L3Harris, Aug 28, 2024  

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Aug. 28, 2024 — L3Harris Technologies (NYSE:LHX) has received a new order from the U.S. Marine Corps for multi-channel handheld and vehicular radio systems worth more than $120 million, bringing program orders to date above $600 million.  

The recent order is under a 10-year, $750 million indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract for L3Harris Falcon IV® handheld radios. These software-defined devices allow for immediate upgrades to the latest in NSA-certified, high-assurance standards and access to a broad resilient waveform portfolio to maintain spectrum superiority against emerging threats.  

“Our continued investment toward high-assurance technology centers around providing U.S. Marines and other customers the ability to operate seamlessly on the move without enemy interference or detection,” said Chris Aebli, President, Tactical Communications, L3Harris. “These highly advanced systems allow our fighting forces to coordinate with a growing coalition that have selected L3Harris as their resilient communication systems provider.” 

L3Harris delivers communication systems enabling Combined Joint All-Domain Command-and-Control concepts with more than 60 years of experience supporting joint force and coalition partner initiatives, including the U.S. Army’s Handheld, Manpack and Small Form Factor, the U.S. Special Operations Command’s Next Generation Tactical Communications and the UK Ministry of Defence’s Multi Mode Radio programs. 

By Petty Officer 1st Class Aron Montan, Commander, Naval Air Forces   

RENO, Nev. – U.S. Navy and Marine Corps aviators, veterans, industry partners and supporters attended the 2024 Tailhook Association symposium, Aug. 22-24, at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. The symposium consisted of various speaking panels, junior officer engagements, an awards luncheon, winging ceremony and a banquet. 
 
Guest speakers included Adm. Sam Paparo, commander U.S. Indo-Pacific Command; Adm. Daryl Caudle, commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command; Vice Adm. Dan Cheever, commander Naval Air Forces; Rear Adm. Michael Donnelly, director, Air Warfare Division; Rear Adm. Daniel P. Martin, commander, Naval Safety Command; and Rear Adm. Marc Miguez, commander, Carrier Strike Group Two. 
 
The 68th Tailhook Symposium focused on today’s warfighters and topics relevant to the modern landscape of the Naval Aviation Enterprise (NAE). This year’s theme of “Be Ready” emphasized the importance of alignment and teamwork between warfighters and industry partners to ensure mission readiness. 
 
“Naval aviation is essential to our maritime nation,” said Cheever. “Sea control requires air superiority, and air superiority is what naval aviation provides. The U.S. Navy’s indispensable aircraft carriers, carrier air wings and the Tailhookers who operate on them are key to our ability to win.” 
 
The three-day event kicked off with an integrated air dominance panel and NAE update to industry partners, emphasizing their contributions to naval aviation. On the second day of the event, Cheever moderated a flag officer panel facilitated discussion between flag officers and Navy and Marine Corps attendees. 
 
“The Navy, enabled by naval aviation, provides credible capability for deterrence, sea control, preservation of peace, response in crisis and power projection to win decisively in combat,” said Cheever. “When coupled with our expeditionary forces, USMC, joint forces, allies and partners and industry partners, we are a formidable and key part of distributed maritime operations.” 
 
Additionally, a panel of junior officers from Carrier Air Wing Three, embarked on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69), shared their experiences of operating in a combat zone, emphasizing the intense coordination required during missions and the personal growth they gained facing unprecedented challenges. They highlighted the camaraderie among the crew and the critical role their training played in ensuring successful operations under high-pressure conditions. 
 
Tailhook 2024 concluded with a winging ceremony where student naval aviators received their “Wings of Gold,” marking their transition to fully qualified naval aviators. 
 
The Tailhook Association is an independent, nonprofit organization supporting aircraft carrier and other sea-based aviation. 
 
The NAE benefits national security by improving the operational readiness of Naval Aviation. The NAE provides a collaborative forum for leaders to deliberate and resolve interdependent issues affecting multiple stakeholders across the whole of naval aviation. 
 
As the type commander for naval aviation, Commander, Naval Air Forces’ mission is to “man, train and equip deployable, combat-ready Naval Aviation forces that win in combat.” 

From Lt. Zachary Anderson, 13 August 2024 

SAN DIEGO – Sailors assigned to San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock USS Somerset (LPD 25) returned home Aug. 13 to San Diego after a seven-month deployment with embarked Marines from the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) in the U.S. 7th and 3rd Fleet areas of operations. 
 
More than 1,400 Sailors and Marines participated in a wide range of joint and combined exercises, showcasing the ready and responsive combined-arms team of the Navy and Marine Corps, capable of responding quickly and decisively to a wide array of military operations. 
 
“Somerset’s motto is ‘courage through adversity,’ and I can think of no crew that better exemplifies that ethos than the combined Navy-Marine Corps team that have called this ship home for the past seven months,” said Capt. Andrew Koy, commanding officer of Somerset. “I have no doubt that the numerous multilateral exercises in which Somerset participated played a key role in strengthening international partnerships and alliances throughout the Western Pacific.” 
 
Exercises such as Cobra Gold, Tiger Triumph, Balikatan, Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Indonesia, Tiger Strike, and Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2024, reinforced America’s commitment to allies and partners throughout the Indo-Pacific region and increased force interoperability. 
 
After setting sail in January, Somerset participated in Exercise Cobra Gold 2024, the 43rd iteration of the largest joint exercise in mainland Asia. Taking place in Thailand, U.S. Marines from the 15th MEU were able to conduct two community relations events, demonstrating their commitment to the region, as well as a unit-level training rotation alongside Republic of Korea and Royal Thai Marines, enhancing interoperability. 
 
“The hard work demonstrated at CALFEX (combined arms live fire exercise) is a tangible demonstration of the collective strength and focus we have when working with our allies and partners,” said U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Lindsay Mathwick, commanding officer of Combat Logistics Battalion 15, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and commander of troops aboard Somerset. “Seeing the synchronization and communication with our combined and joint forces at work throughout these two weeks of training shows how important exercises like Cobra Gold are to our development as a force.” 
 
From Thailand to India, Somerset followed up Cobra Gold by participating in Tiger Triumph 2024, marking the third time U.S. and India came together for the exercise. Forces operated near Visakhapatnam and Kakinada, India, and focused on advancing large-scale joint and combined interoperability for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, as well as work through standard operating procedures between the combined and joint forces. 
 
The exercise included a harbor phase followed by a sea phase where U.S. and Indian forces practiced combined operational maneuvers, command and control, and joint sustainment operations. Somerset was joined by a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft from Patrol Squadron (VP) 4, the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Halsey (DDG 97), along with U.S. Army and Air Force assets. 
 
Exercise Balikatan 2024, a combined exercise featuring French, Australian, U.S., and Filipino service members, reinforced America’s longstanding, strategic partnership with the Philippines and partner nations. Over a three-week span, partner nations’ forces trained shoulder-to-shoulder at locations throughout the Republic of the Philippines to increase proficiency in maritime security, amphibious operations, combined arms, aviation operations, and information and cyberspace operations. 
 
Emphasizing quality over the quantity, this year’s exercise focused on the planning and execution of complex, combined military operations. Balikatan, which means “sharing the load together” in Tagalog, built upon previous iterations, coalescing partner nation capabilities into the unified force necessary to deter aggression and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific region. 
 
In addition to the field exercises, forces injected nearly $50 million into the local community, via humanitarian engineering projects, such as building schools and medical centers, and training medical personnel. 
 
Following Balikatan’s concluding ceremony, May 10, Somerset participated in CARAT Indonesia 2024. The bilateral maritime exercise concluded in Bandar Lampung, Indonesia, May 20, following eight days of both ashore and at-sea engagements that enhanced collaboration between the Indonesian and U.S. militaries. This year’s exercise marked the 30th iteration of CARAT, and 75 years of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and the U.S. 
 
“We have come to recognize our similarities after a week of training and living side by side,” said Col. Sean Dynan, commanding officer, 15th MEU. “Words like honor, courage and commitment describe a common ethos that is so obviously shared between our two navies and Marine Corps. We have learned that a language barrier is not as strong as the bond by those who serve in the field, or on a ship. We’ve learned that we have different capabilities, but we are both equally capable.” 
 
Somerset’s penultimate stop was Kuantan, Malaysia, for Exercise Tiger Strike 24. The bilateral exercise, taking place in Kuantan and Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, occurred between May 29 and June 6. It increased the combined, joint force readiness and amphibious capabilities that can be applied across the range of military operations at sea and shore. 
 
“Strategic engagement with countries, such as Malaysia, reflect the importance of our relationships with Indo-Pacific allies and partners,” said Capt. Tate Robinson, commodore of Amphibious Squadron 5. 
 
“Training opportunities, such as Tiger Strike, allow us to work side-by-side with our Malaysian counterparts to refine our common defense requirements and meet national security objectives.” 
 
With its mission complete in U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations, Somerset and embarked elements of the 15th MEU, sailed to Hawaii for RIMPAC 2024, the world’s largest international maritime exercise, with 29 participating nations. 
 
Aboard Somerset, a team of engineers from the Consortium for Advanced Manufacturing Research and Education demonstrated the benefits of 3D printing by constructing a critical component of a reverse osmosis pump. The advanced manufacturing project was part of Trident Warrior, the experimentation sector of RIMPAC, dedicated to operational testing new military technology for the warfighter. Notably, the 3D printer used was a hybrid metal printer, the first of its kind to combine subtractive and additive manufacturing. 
 
Also aboard were a team of Army surgeons from the 105th Surgical Augmentation Detachment. The detachment’s embarkation marked the first time an Army unit was used in place of a fleet surgical team, testing the interoperability of the U.S. military’s medical assets. 
 
Somerset is part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and 15th MEU team, which is a flexible, self-sustained crisis response force, capable of conducting operations from combat missions to humanitarian aid and disaster relief. This team is the premier crisis-response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

By U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet Public Affairs, Aug. 5, 2024 

NAPLES, Italy  –  The Ohio-class guided-missile submarine USS Georgia (SSGN 729), assigned to Commander, Task Force 69, concluded a series of interoperability training events with Force Reconnaissance Marines from the 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion and special operations forces (SOF) in the Mediterranean Sea, August 5, 2024. 

The series of events between joint partners and allied countries demonstrates the ability of Task Force 69 to seamlessly integrate amphibious and special warfare into existing Navy missions in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations. 

“As our submarine force continues to develop its diverse mission sets, we strengthen our ability to deter threats and ensure global access, security, and stability in the maritime domain,” said Capt. Benjamin Selph, Commander, Task Force 69. “Integration with joint and allied partners enhances our lethality as apex predators against hard targets in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations.” 

The purpose of the training was to improve U.S. Marine Corps and SOF integration with conventional naval forces in order to develop and improve tactics, techniques and procedures. Early in the series, Marines from the 2nd Force Reconnaissance Company launched and recovered small craft aboard USS Georgia in order to develop capabilities to execute combined arms attacks, advanced personnel recovery, and expeditionary theater undersea warfare deployments. 

“Several of our Marines worked alongside Sailors aboard USS Georgia to facilitate joint operational planning at a level not executed before between the U.S. Marine Corps and the submarine force,” said Major W. Connor Smithson, 2nd Force Reconnaissance Company commander. “Collaboration at this level only acts as a force multiplier to bring out the best of both forces’ capabilities.” 

Later in the series, East Coast-based U.S. Naval Special Warfare Operators conducted Submarine-Special Operations Forces interoperability training with USS Georgia, which can host up to 66 SOF personnel, and included participation from the Royal Navy’s Special Boat Service, Norwegian Marinejegerkommandoen, and Italian Gruppo Operativo Incursori. 

The training iterations with SOF sought to expand and reinforce SOF interoperability with combined partners and provided a valuable opportunity to build combined SUBSOF communication and control architecture while also conducting critical undersea training and qualifications. 

“The scale and importance of the accomplishments made by the teams onboard USS Georgia cannot be over-stated.” said Capt. Selph. “Integration with joint and allied SOF enhances our undersea forces’ ability to respond to any threat with increased speed and lethality.” 

USS Georgia is homeported in Kings Bay, Georgia, and is on a routine deployment to the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations. While in U.S. Sixth Fleet, Commander, Task Force 69 is responsible for submarine warfare operations in Europe and Africa. 

Headquartered in Naples, Italy, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) operates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command and U.S. Africa Command areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations. 

By Jennifer N. Napier 

MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE ALBANY, GA – Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are set to play pivotal roles in transforming tele-maintenance operations, ensuring that maintainers are always available to support the Marine on any front at any time.  

Bridging the Gap  

Tele-maintenance, the remote diagnosis and repair of equipment, has traditionally relied on phone calls and manual instructions. However, the arrival of AR and VR technologies promises to take maintenance capabilities to an entirely new level. By overlaying digital information onto the real world (AR) or creating fully immersive virtual environments (VR), these technologies provide a more intuitive and effective way for technicians to perform maintenance tasks remotely.  

AR can significantly enhance the diagnostic process by allowing remote experts to visualize the exact conditions that field technicians are encountering. For instance, a technician wearing AR glasses can receive step-by-step guidance directly in their line of sight, with holographic overlays highlighting parts and tools needed for a specific task. This real-time, hands-free assistance minimizes errors and speeds up the repair process.  

The Pursuit 

Marine Depot Maintenance Command has been experimenting with AR technologies as part of its effort to modernize its maintenance capabilities from industrial-era practices to technologies suitable and capable of meeting the demands of the Information Age. The implementation of the “Industry 5.0 Framework” includes increasing production planning, control, and execution of capabilities by optimizing and automating business processes and optimization of facilities, business processes, and technology. As part of the effort, the command has actively engaged in experimentation and testing of AR capabilities since September 2022 and is gaining a better understanding of how it can be integrated into the command’s current and future capabilities.   

Real-World AR Application: A Case Study 

In May 2024, Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28 (MWCS 28) at MCAS Cherry Point, NC, sought Marine Depot Maintenance Command (MDMC) Business Development’s assistance to fix four non-operational electronic maintenance shelters experiencing various electrical problems. Normally, a forward maintenance team would be deployed from one of the command’s two production plants in either Albany, Georgia, or Barstow, California, to support this request. Opportunely, the squadron had another option. 

At the beginning of the year, the 2D Maintenance Battalion acquired and trained on the same AR equipment that MDMC had been experimenting with. Cpl. Tyler Havard, S3 Schools Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO), 2D Maintenance Battalion, became proficient in the use of the lens through training earlier this year and was able to link up with MWCS 28 to quickly orient the ground electronic maintenance team on how to use the AR equipment. 

Using augmented reality, the MDMC team remotely guided Marines through the shelter maintenance and troubleshooting processes and identified and resolved various electrical problems, proving the effectiveness of AR-enabled tele-maintenance in real-time. Cpl. Vradley Cerna, a digital wideband systems maintainer, and Organics NCO, was one of three Marines working on the shelters who collaborated with the depot. 

Cerna said that his team has been trained in electrical maintenance and could have attempted to troubleshoot the issues themselves. However, having somebody already familiar with the electronic components and layout of specific shelter models who could guide them step-by-step was immensely helpful and sped up identifying the issues. It was Cerna’s first-time using AR lenses. He remarked, “It was a little surprising the first time you put them on to see the features through the lens and hear the maintainers on the other end like they are right there next to you. It was a great experience and an option I would want to use in the future.” 

Key lessons from this operation highlight the effectiveness of AR for real-time collaboration, significant safety enhancements, and substantial cost savings. Previously, MDMC deployed contact teams on temporary additional duty (TAD), incurring travel costs and disrupting production. 

Training and Skill Enhancement 

The Marine Corps can also leverage AR and VR for training purposes. New and seasoned technicians alike can benefit from virtual simulations that replicate real-world scenarios. Training modules can include various maintenance tasks, from routine checks to emergency repairs, providing a safe and controlled environment to hone their skills. 

By simulating real-world conditions, VR training can prepare Marines for the challenges they might face in the field. This immersive experience ensures that they are well-versed in the intricacies of their equipment and can perform under pressure, ultimately leading to higher efficiency and readiness levels. 

Reducing Downtime and Costs 

One of the most significant advantages of AR/VR tele-maintenance is the reduction in equipment downtime. Quick and accurate repairs mean that machinery is back in operation sooner, which is crucial in a military context where readiness is paramount. Additionally, by enabling remote experts to assist with repairs, the need to transport specialized personnel to various locations is minimized, resulting in cost savings and faster response times. 

Overcoming Challenges 

While the potential benefits of AR and VR in tele-maintenance are substantial, there are challenges to be addressed. Ensuring secure and reliable communication channels is critical, as is the need for ruggedized AR/VR hardware that can withstand the harsh environments Marines often operate in. Moreover, integrating these technologies into existing systems and workflows will require careful planning and training. 

Future Prospects 

As AR and VR continue to evolve, their applications will expand, offering even more sophisticated tools and capabilities across the logistics enterprise. By investing in AR and VR for tele-maintenance, the Marine Corps is not only improving its current operational efficiency but also paving the way for future innovations in military logistics. This forward-thinking approach ensures that Marines remain equipped with the best tools available, ready to tackle any challenge that comes their way. 

AR and VR technologies are set to revolutionize the Marine Corps, offering enhanced diagnostics, improved training, reduced downtime, and significant cost savings. As these technologies continue to develop, their integration into military logistics will undoubtedly play a crucial role in maintaining the Marine Corps operational readiness and effectiveness. The successful implementation of AR-enabled tele-maintenance demonstrates advancements in military maintenance operations, showcasing the potential for widespread adoption and efficiency and providing an optimistic outlook for this technology’s future financial and operational benefits.  

10 Jun 2024 | Lance Cpl. Kyle Baskin, Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort 

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION BEAUFORT, S.C. — Three F-5N Tiger IIs arrived to Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Beaufort, South Carolina, on May 30, 2024, as part of Marine Fighter Training Squadron (VMFT) 402’s stand up process to serve as an adversary squadron. 

“It’s a huge day in the lifecycle of our squadron,” said Lt. Col. Andrew Christ, commanding officer, VMFT-402, Marine Aircraft Group 41 (MAG-41), 4th Marine Aircraft Wing (4th MAW), “we just delivered the first F-5N Tiger IIs, and it marks a significant milestone in our stand up towards activation.” 

VMFT-402 will serve as the Marine Corps’ second adversary squadron; VMFT-401 located at MCAS Yuma is already in operation. Both VMFT-401 and VMFT-402 will be assigned to MAG-41, 4th MAW, Marine Forces Reserve. 

“This is a unique collaboration between the air station and the parent unit of VMFT-401, which will remain MAG-41 in Dallas Fort Worth, Texas and 4th MAW,” said Bortnem, “so this is a very unique partnership that we have with our ability to host aircraft and units that are both part of 2nd MAW and 4th MAW.” 

“We are expanding to establish a second adversary squadron that is VMFT-402, here in Beaufort, South Carolina,” said Maj. Erin Mathis, operations officer, VMFT-402, Marine Aircraft Group 41, 4th Marine Aircraft Wing. 

An adversary squadron acts as opposing forces during training with other squadrons. Pilots with adversary squadrons study the tactics and maneuvers of foreign adversaries to employ them in training to create realistic scenarios. 

“We, as experts in adversary tactics and experts in the way the adversary fights, provide the fleet units with a unique look at basically what the adversary does,” said Mathis. 

“The ability for us to have on-station adversary support is absolutely critical to the development of both our fleet F-35 pilots in the future and our current training F-35 pilots,” said Bortnem. 

Having a local adversary squadron allows for more training opportunities, an easier planning process and allows for VMFT-402 to provide in person debriefs. 

“We have a rapidly growing F-35 fleet particularly on the East Coast now and Marine Corps aviation has an insatiable need for as much adversary support and training as they can receive to prepare them for the next fight that’s coming,” said Christ.  

Due to available space to house and support the squadron, and the proximity to Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501 and the closest training ranges, MCAS Beaufort was chosen to be the home of VMFT-402, said Bortnem. 

“This has been Fighter Town East since 1950. VMFT-401, the previous squadron, had been here many, many times before. So the ability for VMFT-402 to be housed here just makes perfect sense,” he said. 

The unit will officially reactivate as Marine Medium Helicopter Training Squadron (HMMT) 402 in September 2024, and will then be redesignated as VMFT-402. 

Originally, HMMT-402 was stood up in 1967 and trained helicopter pilots for the Vietnam War, before it was decommissioned in 1972, said MSgt. Jason Tracoma, senior enlisted advisor, VMFT-402. 

“Our short term goals will evolve over the course of the summer, we’re going to go through a number of maintenance inspections to make sure that we’re safe for flight operations autonomously,” said Christ. 

“It’s been a long time coming, we’ve needed this capability on the East Coast for a number of years and can’t come soon enough,” said Christ, “we need to get our house ready for the high fight.” 

MCAS Beaufort provides support to the 2nd MAW and attached II Marine Expeditionary Force units. The air station is the operational base for Marine Aircraft Group 31 and its associated squadrons. MCAS Beaufort is home to Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron 501, the premiere F-35 training squadron on the East Coast. 

From III Marine Aircraft Wing 

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif.–Demonstrating the Marine Corps’ commitment to aviation advancement, Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 311, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, declared initial operational capability on July 31, 2024. 
 
Achieving initial operational capability is a key milestone for the squadron as part of the Marine Corps tactical aviation (TACAIR) transition plan, the transition from the AV-8B Harrier and F/A-18 Hornet to the F-35. Receiving this qualification means that VMFA-311 has the operational F-35C Lightning II aircraft, trained pilots, maintainers, and support equipment to sustain its mission essential tasks. These tasks include close air support, strike coordination and reconnaissance, anti-air warfare, suppression of enemy air defenses and electronic attacks. 
 
“I am incredibly proud of the Marines and Sailors in this squadron as they hit this critical milestone that ensures greater lethality and operational readiness for the Wing, the Marine Corps, and the joint force,” said Maj. Gen. James Wellons, commanding general of 3rd MAW. 
 
Formerly VMA-311, the “Tomcats” of VMFA-311 reactivated in April 2023 as part of the Marine Corps’ transition to an all fifth-generation force. VMFA-311 achieved its “Safe for Flight” certification in September 2023, allowing the squadron to conduct independent flight operations. 
 
The squadron flew more than 900 sorties, approximately 1,700 hours, and completed more than 800 simulator hours and 2,400 maintenance actions to reach initial operational capability. 
 
“Initial operational capability is a milestone and achievement in readiness,” said Lt. Col. Michael Fisher, commanding officer of VMFA-311, “It’s all on the backs of the Marines out there. What they do in their day-to-day actions is what made this possible.” 
 
In addition to achieving initial operational capability, VMFA-311 Marines have trained at the most advanced aviation schools offered by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Maj. Timothy Potter, an F-35C pilot, graduated from the U.S. Navy Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor Program, more commonly known as TOPGUN, becoming a pilot instructor and increasing the squadron’s ability to train other pilots. Warrant Officer John Page, an aviation ordnance officer, graduated from the Marine Corps Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course. Marines completed lightning tactics instructor qualifications, air combat maneuvering qualifications, division lead and section lead qualifications. 
 
The next step for VMFA-311 is full operational capability, attained when VMFA-311 receives its complete inventory of ten F-35C aircraft, projected for fiscal year 2025. 
 
“Nothing changes for us, our pursuit of excellence and how we carry ourselves, initial operational capability is a byproduct of daily competency and being good at our job,” Fisher said. “It is a great accomplishment, but when we wake up the next day, we are going to keep doing the same thing. Now full operational capability is the goal.” 
 
The Marines of VMFA-311 are actively training and preparing for potential future deployments with the F-35C, continuing the squadron’s legacy as a vital component of Marine Corps aviation.  
 
VMFA-311 was originally commissioned as VMF-311 on December 1, 1942, in Cherry Point, North Carolina and has had a notable history of “firsts” for Marine Corps aviation. 
 
Over the last 80 years, VMFA-311 has flown a variety of aircraft, including the F4U Corsair, F9F Panther, A-4 Skyhawk, AV-8B Harrier II, and currently the F-35C Lightning II. VMFA-311 was one of the first Marine Corps squadrons to transition to jet aircraft with the F9F Panther.  
 
Now the squadron leads the way alongside VMFA-314 as one of the first Marine Corps F-35C Lightning II squadrons. 
 
“The Tomcats have a storied history that includes legends such as Ted Williams and John Glenn, and participation in every major conflict since World War II,” Wellons said. “Today’s Marines add another chapter to that legacy with the introduction of the F-35C and fifth-generation capabilities to VMFA-311.” 
 
In 2020, the squadron, then VMA-311, deactivated its legacy Harrier, and began preparing for its reactivation in April 2023, as VMFA-311, the Marine Corps’ second F-35C Lightning II squadron. Starting with 84 Marines and one aircraft, the reactivation was part of ongoing modernization efforts across the Marine Corps to make the force more lethal, effective, and survivable. 
 
The F-35C’s multirole capabilities enable Marine Corps aviation to adapt to a wide range of mission requirements, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, reconnaissance and electronic warfare. As operational challenges evolve, the F-35C’s versatility enhances the Marine Corps’ ability to respond.  
 
“As a previous F/A-18 Hornet pilot, the F-35 is our bid for success for the future,” Fisher said. “It is where the Marine Corps is going for TACAIR.” 
 
The Marine Corps has eight operational F-35B squadrons and two training squadrons, operating more than 100 F-35B aircraft around the world. The Marine Corps’ two F-35C squadrons, VMFA-311 and VMFA-314, are both home-stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. 
 
Each variant of the F-35 brings slightly different capabilities to the joint force. The F-35C is specifically engineered for carrier-based operations, with heavier landing gear and enlarged, foldable wings designed to facilitate flight operation on naval vessels. 
 
The transition to the F-35C Lightning II is a testament to the Marine Corps’ continued evolution and commitment to maintaining cutting-edge capabilities in modern aerial combat. 

By Richard R. Burgess, Senior Editor 

ARLINGTON, Va. — The U.S. Marine Corps is seeking counter-unmanned aerial systems technology to protect its installations. One of the companies bidding to be the provider is Parsons, in partnership with Rafael Systems Global Sustainment LLC (RSGS).  

Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS) is a sector of defense technology that has been of increasing focus over the last decade and has become even more to with the extensive use of UAS in the Ukraine War, the Israel-Hamas War, and the Houthi drone attacks against naval and commercial shipping in the Red Sea. 

The need to provide force protection extends not only to deployed forces but to their installations. 

The Marine Corps solicited proposals for “installation counter-small UAS,” said Christopher Hamilton, vice president for innovative technology solutions at Parsons, in an interview with Seapower. “They’re looking to protect Marine Corps facilities and infrastructure around the world from the small UAS threat, primarily Group 1and Group 2 UAS, but some Group 3 potentially as well. That’s the lower half of the UAS spectrum, but those drones, as we’ve seen, can do quite a bit of damage if configured in the right way and with explosives, or just wreak havoc in terms of security responses to drones, as we’ve seen with sporting events over the past year or so.” 

Parsons, in its proposal, is the prime solutions provider, delivering overall program management, sustainment, and systems integration, while RSGS is providing the Rafael Drone Dome System, a Parsons spokesman said. 

The Marine Corps requirement is focused on its permanent installations in the United States and overseas, Hamilton said, noting that Parsons has “years and years of experience of developing, integrating, and deploying critical infrastructure protection systems, and over the past few years, CUAS has become really the most critical of those infrastructure protection components. 

He said the Marine Corps requirement for infrastructure protection played to the strengths of Parsons, which has been “deploying CUAS systems for other clients around the world to do very similar functions.” 

Parsons’ analysis of the Marine Corps requirement came down to providing two capabilities: the most effective system and the most available system — 100% of the time. 

The Drone Dome system would be tailored specifically for the Marine Corps. Hamilton said it was the most battle-proven system and has been deployed in several different theaters with great success in defeating threats. 

In addition, Hamilton said that Parsons “has the knowledge and experience to manage a global logistics enterprise, where you’re looking to maintain near 100% availability of systems. We do that today.” 

The Drone Dome system includes a command-and-control system, RF sensors, radars, and kinetic and non-kinetic effectors that are options. The Marine Corps requires a modular open systems approach to allow the system to adapt to evolving threats. It will make maximum use of artificial intelligence.  

“It’s clear that the Marine Corps wants a system that evolves over time,” Hamilton said. 

Parsons, based in Chantilly, Virginia, has a center of excellence for CUAS at Summit Point, West Virginia, where it assesses CUAS threats.  

Parsons delivered its proposal to the Marine Corps in April. A single contract award in the competition is expected this summer. The program is to have a duration of at least 10 years. 

PITTSBURG, Pa. – [July 12, 2024] – NAVAIR has selected Near Earth Autonomy (Near Earth) to lead one of the teams demonstrating optimized logistics using rotorcraft for the U.S. Marine Corps’ Aerial Logistics Connector (ALC) program through an Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) under the Naval Aviation Systems Consortium (NASC). In collaboration with industry leaders Leonardo and Honeywell, Near Earth will showcase advanced autonomy on the Leonardo AW139 helicopter to provide logistical support during expeditionary operations in contested environments. The AW139, renowned for its versatility in defense, medical rescue, law enforcement, and energy operations worldwide, combined with Near Earth’s logistics mission autonomy system, will be the centerpiece of this program. 

The objective is to field a flexible solution capable of transporting various types of cargo and serving in casualty evacuation roles, operating in both crewed and uncrewed configurations. This dual capability will significantly expand the range of missions USMC rotorcraft will be able to undertake. Specifically, the 20-month initiative will demonstrate the rapid deployment of cargo up to 3,000 lb. over a 200 NM radius. 

For the ALC program, Leonardo will implement a fast loading, securing, and unloading system for Joint Modular Intermodal Containers (JMIC) on the AW139 helicopter. This system will integrate seamlessly with the helicopter, maintaining payload capacity and structural integrity. Honeywell, which already provides the AW139’s autopilot, will augment it to enable autonomous take-off and landing capabilities. As the prime contractor, Near Earth will demonstrate a fully integrated logistics system featuring onboard autonomy that guides the aircraft and modifies the flight trajectory to avoid hazards without requiring a remote operator. Additionally, Near Earth will demonstrate mission autonomy, enabling lightly trained personnel to request, dispatch, monitor, and retask supply deliveries in contested environments. 

The ALC program marks an operational-scenario implementation of Near Earth’s foundational vision — to pioneer autonomous solutions for full-scale helicopter logistics. This initiative underscores Near Earth’s commitment to enhancing efficiency, safety, and reliability in aerial logistics. 

Sanjiv Singh, CEO of Near Earth, stated, “We started the company in 2012 to demonstrate autonomous resupply operations in austere environments at an unprecedented scale. We proved feasibility in 2017 with an autonomous UH-1, and now the Aerial Logistics Connector program allows us to demonstrate a complete system that meets this operational need in the near future. We look forward to working with our partners at Leonardo, Honeywell and NAVAIR to build upon state-of-the-art to advance the efficiency and safety of military logistics. ” 

“Leonardo Helicopters is excited to introduce the USMC to the world-class AW139 helicopter for this next-generation FVL mission,” said Scott Volkert, Dir. of USMC Programs for Leonardo Helicopters. “The combination of Near Earth’s autonomy and AW139 platform will provide the Marines relief on their combat rotorcraft fleet and reduce their workforce requirements.” 

“The future of aviation will include several layers of autonomy, and Honeywell is proud to work with our partners to provide the cutting-edge technologies that enable safe and secure autonomy solutions across a range of vehicles, including the AW139,” said Matt Milas, president, Defense & Space, Honeywell Aerospace Technologies. 

This project builds on Near Earth’s extensive experience with numerous defense logistics products and initiatives. In 2010, the founders demonstrated the first autonomous helicopter flight for the Army Combat Medic program. From 2012 to 2017, Near Earth focused on the USMC Autonomous Aerial Cargo/Utility System (AACUS), to demonstrate an aircraft-agnostic autonomy system suitable for logistics. Currently, Near Earth is actively integrating autonomy into various other aircraft to support USMC logistics needs. Near Earth also leads Project Crimson to enable autonomous delivery of blood and medical supplies for Army Telemedicine and the Army Heavy VTOL UAS program to demonstrate a multipurpose uncrewed aerial system. 

By Cpl. Nicholas Johnson, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, July 8, 2024 

TINDAL, NORTHERN TERRITORY, Australia  –  Northern Territory — In a demonstration of the ever-increasing interchangeability between U.S. Marine Corps and Royal Australian Air Force aviation, two F-35B Lightning II pilots with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 214, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, flew RAAF F-35A Lightning II aircraft, June 13, 2024.  

“Interoperability is two different organizations figuring out ways to work together; interchangeability means the entire allied F-35 force can pool parts, maintainers, weapons, tactics — and now pilots and aircraft — to accomplish any mission,” said U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Robert Guyette, commanding officer of VMFA-214. 

In May 2024, VMFA-214 deployed more than 200 Marines and eight F-35Bs from Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona, to RAAF Base Tindal, to conduct bilateral training with RAAF No. 3 Squadron and No. 75 Squadron and participate in the RAAF led exercise Diamond Storm. This training iteration enhanced each air wings’ “fight together” mindset. 

Guyette and Maj. John Rose, executive officer of VMFA-214, took part in the bilateral training. The pilots flew RAAF F-35A jets alongside RAAF and USMC pilots in their respective platforms. 

“Our formations are completely blended, and our pilots pull the same lessons learned from this incredibly realistic training,” Guyette said. “When the XO and I flew in the RAAF F-35As, we spent zero time briefing procedural differences in execution, because we have been adhering to the same standards as the RAAF from day one.” 

Guyette flew alongside his counterpart, Wing Commander Andrew Nilson, commanding officer of No. 75 Squadron. 

“The most impressive aspect of the exercise has been the depth of interoperability and interchangeability between our two nations,” Nilson said. “It was a further demonstration of our cooperation that Marine Corps pilots were able to fly RAAF F-35A aircraft during the exercise, allowing the RAAF to share and learn tactics, techniques and procedures at a level of complexity that has truly tested the F-35’s capability.” 

Incorporating two aircraft variants, pilots and maintainers from both teams introduced additional planning complexities at every organizational level. 

“The mission planning factors for each event are very challenging, realistic, and relevant for high end conflict against the peer adversary,” Rose said. 

Such integration was made possible through previous training exercises between VMFA-214 and RAAF F-35 squadrons. VMFA-214 has trained directly with all three RAAF F-35 squadrons over the past year, building on the tactical, technical and personal coordination between the two aviation forces. 

“This ‘fight together’ mindset has also been enhanced by the personal relationships established between the Marine Corps and the RAAF,” Rose said. “VMFA-214 and RAAF No. 75 squadron were on the same tactical page from day one.” 

VMFA-214’s transpacific deployment was preceded by a similar one executed by Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 314, Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd MAW, in the summer of 2023. VMFA-314, an F-35C Lightning II squadron from MCAS Miramar, deployed four F-35C aircraft across the Pacific to RAAF Base Williamtown, New South Wales, and trained alongside RAAF No. 3 Squadron. 

“VMFA-314’s detachment to Australia last year provided a winning template and really did an excellent job of setting the proper conditions for VMFA-214 to be successful this year,” Rose said. “They passed on lessons learned, which VMFA-214 leveraged to efficiently deploy the squadron from MCAS Yuma across the Pacific to RAAF Base Tindal, Australia.” 

After reviewing VMFA-314’s deployment, VMFA-214 was prepared to deploy an additional four jets this year, expanding the latitude of training options for both Marines and the RAAF. Beyond professional growth, the Marines of VMFA-214 forged personal connections and friendships with RAAF aviators during the deployment. 

“I have some long-time friendships within the RAAF that go back to my first Marine Corps fleet tour,” Rose said. “It has been such a cool experience to see my old Australian friends and get the opportunity to fly in such high-level events with them.” 

​VMFA-214’s deployment honed combat readiness and strengthened enduring friendships that underscore the U.S.-Australia military alliance. Marine Corps and RAAF aviators will continue to “train together, fight together,” preparing for any challenge to the Indo-Pacific region.