The United States Marine Corps is progressing towards achieving a complete fleet of fifth-generation fighter jets; however, these new jets are still utilizing weaponry that dates back to the 1980s. Marine aviation leaders, including Lt. Gen. Bradford Gering, the Deputy Commandant for Aviation, and Col. Derek Brannon, Director of the Cunningham Group, are actively seeking industry assistance to enhance the technological capabilities of their fighter jet fleet.
During a speech at the Modern Day Marine military exposition in Washington, Col. Brannon emphasized the Corps’ lethal mission, stating, “We are killers, at the root, we are Marines.” This statement underscored the urgency for upgraded weapons and munitions for the F-35B and F-35C fighter jets, alongside recent lessons learned from distributed air operations.
A recent exercise on the West Coast required collaboration across various Marine Corps entities to explore the potential for distributed aviation operations in that theater. Looking ahead, there is an upcoming tabletop exercise planned for Europe in the next year. Key lessons from these exercises have highlighted the necessity for increased virtual and live training opportunities, data-driven decision-making in aviation operations, improved communication strategies, and the importance of camouflage and concealment tactics.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning are set to play an essential role in refining operations. Lt. Gen. Gering mentioned the pursuit of data-driven tools to predict aircraft component failures, which would inform supply adjustments. He explained that such tools enable better decision-making regarding aircraft use and maintenance, allowing units to reduce their operational footprint by bringing only necessary equipment.
In terms of fleet expansion, the Marines plan to purchase 95 KC-130J cargo planes over the next five years. Currently, eleven squadrons—comprising two training and nine operational units—are flying the F-35 Lightning II jet. Over the next five years, the Corps aims to establish seven additional active-duty squadrons, supplemented by two Marine Reserve squadrons.
Upon completion of these additions, the total will include 18 active squadrons; 12 equipped with the F-35B variant, capable of vertical takeoff and landing, and six with the F-35C variant, designed for aircraft carrier operations. Notably, the AV-8 Harrier jet is scheduled for retirement this year, while the F/A-18 Hornet will be phased out within the next five years.
Todd South, the author of this information, has reported on various topics including crime, courts, government, and military operations since 2004. He is a Marine veteran of the Iraq War and was recognized as a Pulitzer finalist in 2014 for a collaborative project on witness intimidation.
