The US Marine Corps (USMC) recently completed a training course focused on operating the MQ-9A Block 5 Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), also known as the Reaper drone.
This wasn’t your average drone pilot training, however. The Marines who participated were part of the prestigious Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) Course 2-24, a grueling seven-week program designed to create elite instructors well-versed in advanced air and ground tactics.
SkyTower I: Boosting Drone Communication
What makes this training, which was completed on April 20, 2024, even more interesting is the integration of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.’s (GA-ASI) SkyTower I pod. This USMC-specific payload is essentially a high-tech communication booster for the MQ-9A.
SkyTower I provides a commercial-grade Wi-Fi network, extending the reach of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force’s (MAGTF) existing network.
Think of it as a powerful signal repeater, allowing geographically separated Marine units to stay connected and share critical information.
This enhanced communication capability is a game-changer for the Marines. Imagine a scenario where a ground unit needs real-time intel from a drone overhead, but challenging terrain disrupts the usual signal.
GA-ASI and @USMC teamed up to conduct flight training on the operation of MQ-9A Block 5 and the SkyTower I communications relay for the Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One at Marine Corps Air Station in Yuma, Arizona. #MQ9
The US Marine Corps (USMC) recently completed a training course focused on operating the MQ-9A Block 5 Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), also known as the Reaper drone.
This wasn’t your average drone pilot training, however. The Marines who participated were part of the prestigious Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) Course 2-24, a grueling seven-week program designed to create elite instructors well-versed in advanced air and ground tactics.
SkyTower I: Boosting Drone Communication
What makes this training, which was completed on April 20, 2024, even more interesting is the integration of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.’s (GA-ASI) SkyTower I pod. This USMC-specific payload is essentially a high-tech communication booster for the MQ-9A.
SkyTower I provides a commercial-grade Wi-Fi network, extending the reach of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force’s (MAGTF) existing network.
Think of it as a powerful signal repeater, allowing geographically separated Marine units to stay connected and share critical information.
This enhanced communication capability is a game-changer for the Marines. Imagine a scenario where a ground unit needs real-time intel from a drone overhead, but challenging terrain disrupts the usual signal.
GA-ASI and @USMC teamed up to conduct flight training on the operation of MQ-9A Block 5 and the SkyTower I communications relay for the Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One at Marine Corps Air Station in Yuma, Arizona. #MQ9
SkyTower I bridges the gap, ensuring seamless communication and a more effective overall mission.
WTI Course: Forging Elite Drone Instructors
“Congratulations to the newest graduates of WTI,” said GA-ASI Vice President of DoD Strategic Development Patrick Shortsleeve. “GA-ASI is proud to support the training of the MAWTS-1 aircrews in the use and utility of the MQ-9A platform, especially now with our SkyTower capabilities.”
The WTI course is renowned for pushing participants to their limits, refining their tactical skills, and developing cutting-edge aviation tactics.
Hands-on experience with the MQ-9A platform is a key part of the program, and the SkyTower I integration adds a whole new dimension to their training.
These graduates will become the go-to experts within their squadrons for employing the MQ-9A Block 5. Their comprehensive training and specialized knowledge ensure they can lead and execute missions with precision and efficiency.
A USMC MQ-9A launches on Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, June 21, 2023. (Image source: DVIDS)
Building a Robust Drone Force: The MAGTF Unmanned Expeditionary (MUX) Program
This training is critical for the MAGTF Unmanned Expeditionary (MUX) program to achieve Full Operational Capability (FOC) with the MQ-9A Block 5.
With 13 MQ-9A UAS already delivered and seven more on the way, the USMC is rapidly building a robust drone force equipped with the latest technology.
The SkyTower I integration demonstrates the USMC’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve in unmanned aerial combat.
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