I wonder if we are doing enough to standardize the operator/human interface with our drones to allow for quicker training and transition from one system to another by operators?
At this point, it almost seems as if we should have an infantry drone operator mos to go along with the billet possibly? Also, at a minimum, 1 drone operator per squad?
Any Marine can learn to fly a drone. If a 45-year-old with no video game experience can pick it up in minutes, our Marines—trained, adaptable, and motivated—will have no problem. It’s time senior leaders stop underestimating our Marines’ capabilities. Better yet, they should get hands-on experience themselves—they’ll quickly see just how straightforward it is.
Rather than focusing on teaching young Marines how to “play video games,” leadership should prioritize what truly matters: developing effective control measures and operational frameworks. That’s their role.
There’s no doubt in my mind that every Marine in the Corps can operate a standard drone with minimal instruction. FPVs are a bit more complex, but with access to flight simulators, even those can be mastered in a matter of days.
I wonder if we are doing enough to standardize the operator/human interface with our drones to allow for quicker training and transition from one system to another by operators?
At this point, it almost seems as if we should have an infantry drone operator mos to go along with the billet possibly? Also, at a minimum, 1 drone operator per squad?
The 101st Airborne has an organic drone manufacturing capability as part of their Eagle Werx facility. I think it's time each MarDiv followed suit.
Any Marine can learn to fly a drone. If a 45-year-old with no video game experience can pick it up in minutes, our Marines—trained, adaptable, and motivated—will have no problem. It’s time senior leaders stop underestimating our Marines’ capabilities. Better yet, they should get hands-on experience themselves—they’ll quickly see just how straightforward it is.
Rather than focusing on teaching young Marines how to “play video games,” leadership should prioritize what truly matters: developing effective control measures and operational frameworks. That’s their role.
There’s no doubt in my mind that every Marine in the Corps can operate a standard drone with minimal instruction. FPVs are a bit more complex, but with access to flight simulators, even those can be mastered in a matter of days.