The Marine Corps is restructuring its drone training architecture to rapidly scale combat-ready operators as small unmanned systems become integral to modern warfare. Under a new framework, standardized courses and certifications will qualify Marines to operate commercial and military FPV drones, including attack variants such as the Neros Archer. The system introduces multiple certification pathways for pilots, payload operators, instructors, and attack-drone specialists, ensuring repeatable skills across the force as new platforms are introduced. Weapons Training Battalion at Quantico will temporarily oversee program governance, while seven geographically distributed hubs will execute hands-on instruction. The initiative supports the Department of Defense’s plan to field large volumes of low-cost attack drones starting in 2026. Initial exercises and competitive events have already validated the training model, producing a growing cadre of certified personnel. Marine leadership has indicated the program will accelerate sharply, with hundreds of additional warfighters entering certification pipelines and all frontline combat units expected to possess FPV drone capabilities by mid-2026.
