U.S. Marines Test Logistics Drones, Extend Capabilities in Okinawa, North Carolina

The U.S. Marine Corps and Army are advancing the deployment of unmanned systems across air and sea domains to address modern battlefield challenges. Marines have operationally deployed the Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS) in the Philippines, enhancing mobile counter-drone capabilities in contested littoral environments and marking a shift toward distributed, maneuverable air defense. Simultaneously, Marine logistics units in Japan and the U.S. are testing the Sea Specter, an unmanned surface vessel modeled after narco-subs, capable of delivering significant payloads over long distances to support dispersed forces and anti-ship missile systems. These USVs, also known as Autonomous Low-Profile Vessels, are being trialed for their ability to maintain supply lines in contested or remote areas where traditional logistics are vulnerable. The Army is also exploring innovation in unmanned aerial systems, with upcoming tests of 3D-printed drones in Poland aimed at low-cost, rapid production and enhanced electromagnetic sensing for battlefield reconnaissance. Together, these initiatives reflect a broader U.S. military emphasis on autonomous, resilient, and scalable unmanned solutions for both offensive and logistical operations.