Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Training Squadron 2 (VMUT-2) has achieved a landmark moment with the successful maiden flight of the MQ-9A Reaper at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point. This historic flight marks the squadron’s transition to becoming the Marine Corps’ MQ-9A Reaper Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS), a pivotal development in enhancing the service’s unmanned aerial capabilities.
A New Mission: Training the Next Generation of UAS Operators
Formerly known as VMU-2, the squadron’s re-designation as VMUT-2 reflects its evolved mission: training Marine Corps pilots and sensor operators on the MQ-9A Reaper unmanned aerial systems. The first training class is set to begin in spring 2025, preparing Marines to support operational VMU squadrons across the Corps.
Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Boersma, VMUT-2’s commanding officer, highlighted the significance of this achievement:
“The first flight of the MQ-9A from VMUT-2 is a historic milestone that highlights the dedication and teamwork of our Marines, as well as the invaluable support of MAG 14, 2nd MAW, MCAS Cherry Point, and the families who stand behind us. This achievement is more than a technical success – it represents a bold step forward in the future of unmanned aerial systems within the Marine Corps.”
MQ-9A Reaper: A Game-Changer for Marine Corps Operations
The MQ-9A Reaper, a key component of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Unmanned Expeditionary Program, brings advanced capabilities to Marine Corps operations:
- Surveillance and Reconnaissance: Advanced sensors provide real-time intelligence to support decision-making.
- Extended Range: With a flight range of over 1,600 miles and an endurance of 20+ hours, the MQ-9A can cover vast operational areas.
- Payload Capacity: External fuel tanks hold over 1,300 pounds of fuel, enabling extended mission durations.
- Versatility: Supports a range of missions, including maritime awareness, electronic support, and targeting for joint and naval operations.
A Force Multiplier for Expeditionary and Joint Operations
The integration of the MQ-9A Reaper into the Marine Corps underscores the service’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to bolster its expeditionary capabilities. The Reaper’s medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) design aligns with the Corps’ focus on flexible and resilient operational platforms.
VMUT-2’s efforts also support the broader objectives of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW), the aviation combat element of the II Marine Expeditionary Force. This alignment ensures seamless integration of unmanned systems into larger operational frameworks.
Looking Ahead: The Future of UAS in the Marine Corps
The successful launch of the MQ-9A Reaper program at VMUT-2 is just the beginning of the Marine Corps’ expanding investment in unmanned aerial systems (UAS). As the first class of trainees begins in 2025, the Corps is poised to significantly enhance its operational effectiveness and adaptability in increasingly complex environments.
This milestone not only reflects technical achievement but also reaffirms the Marine Corps’ commitment to innovation, ensuring its readiness to face the challenges of modern and future conflicts.
