The U.S. Marine Corps is currently intensifying its focus on countering unmanned aerial systems (UAS), acknowledging the growing threat these devices pose on modern battlefields. In an effort to equip their units with more effective tools, the Marines are exploring innovative solutions ranging from “buckshot-like” canister rounds for small arms to sophisticated electronic warfare technologies. These advancements are part of a strategic initiative to bolster every Marine’s capability to protect themselves from enemy drones.
Strategic Need for Enhanced Counter-Drone Measures
Marine Corps Systems Command (MARCORSYSCOM) issued a Request for Information (RFI) today, signaling a proactive step towards identifying and deploying new squad and platoon-level counter-drone capabilities. The RFI highlights a pressing need for solutions that can detect, track, and neutralize drones, specifically those classified within Groups 1 and 2 by the U.S. These groups include UASs that weigh up to 55 pounds, fly at altitudes up to 3,500 feet, and reach top speeds of 250 knots.
This initiative is underscored by insights from the Joint CsUAS Office (JCO) and the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab (MCWL), which have pinpointed dismounted counter-drone capabilities as a significant vulnerability for joint forces. Throughout multiple experiments and field exercises, such as those conducted by the Tactical Training and Exercise Control Group (TTECG) and the Infantry Officer Course (IOC), the susceptibility of Marine units to drone threats has been repeatedly confirmed.
Proposed Technological Solutions
In response to these identified needs, the RFI outlines several technological innovations aimed at enhancing the Marines’ counter-UAS arsenal:
- Enhanced Ammunition: For individual and squad-level defense, the Marines are interested in exploring buckshot-like canister rounds for 5.56x45mm and 7.62x51mm rifles, .50 caliber machine guns, and 40mm grenade launchers. These rounds could potentially increase the probability of neutralizing fast, maneuverable drones, such as those used in kamikaze attacks, which have been notably prevalent in conflicts like the ongoing war in Ukraine.
- Electronic Warfare Jammers: The document also calls for the development of both directional and omnidirectional radio frequency (RF) and Global Positioning System (GPS) jammers. These devices would ideally be compact enough to mount on standard-issue rifles and other small arms, enhancing the Marines’ ability to disrupt drone operations without significantly burdening the carrier.
- Advanced Optics and Detection Systems: The RFI expresses interest in advanced gun sights and passive detection systems, which could integrate technologies like acoustic or RF detection. These systems would help Marines quickly identify drone threats and engage them effectively. Proposals include wearable technologies such as tablets, bracelets, or glasses that could receive alerts from external sensors.
Detailed Technical Data and Specifications of Portable Jammers for Military and Homeland Security Use
| System | Manufacturer | Frequency Range | Jamming Distance | Power Supply | Weight | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terrestrial Layer System-Brigade Combat Team (TLS-BCT) | US Army | Various military communication frequencies | Not specified | Battery operated | Not specified | Tactical operations for electronic warfare capabilities |
| Manpack Jammer MP808 | Phantom Technologies | IDEN, TDMA, CDMA, GSM, 2G, 3G, 4G, Wi-Fi | Up to 40 meters | 25.9VDC/40Ah Li-Ion/Polymer battery | Approx. 19.5 kg with battery | RF and cellular communication jamming in the field |
| N8N 8-Band Portable Military Jammer | Perfectjammer | WIFI 2.4G, GPS L1, CDMA & GSM, LOJACK, 4G Wimax, DCS/PCS, 4G LTE, 3G | Up to 40 meters | Rechargeable battery | 700 g | Public security, police, bomb squads, military security forces |
| TRC 274 V/UHF Jammer | Thales Group | V/UHF: 20-3000 MHz, SHF: 3000-6000 MHz (optional) | Not specified | High capacity battery | Not specified | Selective denial and disruption of enemy communications |
| DRONEKILLER Portable Drone Jammer | IXI Technology | 433MHz, 915MHz, 2.4GHz, 5.2GHz, 5.8GHz | 1 km | Battery operated | 8.8 lbs | Security response teams, ground forces, mobile units |
| Pulsar Jammer | Anduril Industries | Various electronic threats | Not specified | Battery operated | Not specified | Counter-unmanned aerial systems |
| SCORPION Lightweight Man-portable ECM System | Allen Vanguard | Various bands based on modular design | Not specified | Battery operated | Lightweight | Versatile electronic countermeasures |
| ANCILE Counter UAS RF Shield | Allen Vanguard | Commercial drones | Not specified | Battery operated | Not specified | Protection against drone threats |
| Equinox NG Vehicle Mounted ECM System | Allen Vanguard | Advanced ECM for vehicles | Not specified | Vehicle power supply | Not specified | Vehicle-mounted electronic countermeasures |
| HPJ20-H All Frequencies Desktop Jammer | Jammer-Store | 20 bands including cell phone, GPS, and Wi-Fi | Not specified | AC power supply | Not specified | Comprehensive signal jamming in fixed locations |
| ZD-GR050 Portable Anti-Bomb Jammer | Military Signal Jammer | 20-6000 MHz | Not specified | High-efficiency digital interference code technology | Not specified | Anti-bomb and IED jamming |
| L-MADIS Mobile Anti-Drone System | Marine Corps | Anti-drone frequencies | Not specified | Vehicle power supply | Not specified | Base defense against drone threats |
| DRONEKILLER with CADENCE Lite Wearable Detector | IXI Technology | Various drone control frequencies | Not specified | Battery operated | Not specified | Integrated portable counter-drone system |
| EQUINOX NG Next Generation Vehicle Mounted ECM | Allen Vanguard | Advanced ECM with modular upgradeability | Not specified | Vehicle power supply | Not specified | Vehicle-mounted electronic countermeasures |
| Phantom Dome 180 System | Phantom Technologies | Counter-drone and electronic warfare | Not specified | Battery operated | Not specified | Protection of sensitive areas |
| Spectrum Jammer | Defense Advancement | Advanced spectrum management | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified | Military and defense operations |
| Sentrycs C-UAS System | Sentrycs | Counter-unmanned aircraft system | Not specified | Battery operated | Not specified | Protection of critical infrastructure |
| JamX 22 Counter-Jamming Event | DHS S&T | Various public safety communication frequencies | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable | Training and technology assessment for first responders |
| DroneGuru Ultimate Guide to Drone Jammers | DroneGuru | Various drone control frequencies | Not specified | Battery operated | Not specified | Military, security, and critical infrastructure protection |
| DroneGuru Real-World Applications of Drone Jammers | DroneGuru | Various drone control frequencies | Not specified | Battery operated | Not specified | Protecting sensitive areas from drone threats |
| Jammer Master High-Power Portable Signal Jammers | Jammer Master | High-power jamming | Not specified | Battery operated | Not specified | Hostage negotiations, emergency communication control |
| Deception Jamming with DRFM Systems | Defense Advancement | DRFM-enabled radar jamming | Not specified | Battery operated | Not specified | Radar and electronic warfare |
| Seduction Jamming with DRFM Systems | Defense Advancement | DRFM-enabled radar jamming | Not specified | Battery operated | Not specified | Electronic warfare and defense |
| AI & Quantum Powered Navigation System | SandboxAQ | Unjammable navigation | Not applicable | Not applicable | Not applicable | Situations where GPS signals are unavailable |
| Dual Band Decoy for US Navy Jets | Defense Advancement | Advanced RF countermeasure | Not specified | Battery operated | Not specified | Disrupting enemy radars and protecting aircraft |
| NightFighter X | SteelRock Technologies | 7 RF and GPS bands | Long range, BVLOS | Quick release battery module | 6.0 kg | Long range, BVLOS |
Current Use and Potential Implications
Canister rounds, similar to those proposed, have been previously utilized in various military contexts. For example, the M320 and Mk 19 Mod 3 grenade launchers, widely employed across the U.S. military, can fire rounds loaded with pellets and flechettes. However, adapting these for smaller firearms poses challenges, particularly in terms of range and effectiveness against diverse targets.
Moreover, the use of specialized ammunition may complicate logistical and operational protocols. Marines might need to switch between standard and specialized ammunition during combat, potentially affecting their tactical flexibility. Similarly, the proposed jammers, while potentially game-changing, must be evaluated for their practicality and effectiveness when deployed on small arms.
Broader Implications and Future Directions
The push for improved counter-drone capabilities reflects a broader trend within the U.S. military to adapt to emerging threats. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has demonstrated the significant tactical advantages that drones offer, making it imperative for military forces to develop countermeasures swiftly.
As Lt. Col. Robert Barclay, the ground-based air defense advisor for aviation expeditionary enablers, noted at this year’s Modern Day Marine expo, the Marine Corps is keenly aware of the evolving threat landscape. The new technological initiatives proposed in the RFI represent critical steps toward ensuring that all Marines can effectively counter UAS threats, thereby enhancing their overall combat readiness and safeguarding mission success.
Enhanced Capabilities and Technical Data: U.S. Marine Corps Counter-Drone Systems
Table of Technical Specifications
| System | Type | Weight | Frequency Range | Capabilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CESAS II | Jammer | 670 lbs (vehicular), 180 lbs (portable) | HF, VHF, UHF | Disrupts communications, integrates with MAGTF, scalable, mobile |
| MEGFoS | EW System | Portable | Not specified | Sense, attack, defend against EM threats, joint force interoperability |
| SNC EW Systems | Multi-use EW | Varies (modular) | Not specified | Multi-domain operations, scalable, high SWAP efficiency, defensive/offensive |
CESAS II (Communication Emitter Sensing and Attack System II)
Operational Integration: The CESAS II system is tailored for integration into the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF), particularly enhancing the operational capabilities of radio battalions. This integration supports the MAGTF’s strategic Information Warfare plans, thereby reinforcing the Marines’ ability to conduct both nonlethal and lethal attacks in diverse operational contexts.
Mobility and Adaptability: With a significant reduction in weight from the previous generation, CESAS II’s vehicle-mounted variant now weighs approximately 670 pounds, while a more portable setup, including essential equipment like cases, a laptop, and cables, totals around 180 pounds. This lightweight and modular approach ensures that the system can be rapidly deployed and reconfigured based on mission requirements. Plans are underway to extend this capability to various vehicle platforms, enhancing the system’s versatility across different operational scenarios .
MEGFoS (Marine Expeditionary Ground Force Operating System)
Interoperability and Flexibility: MEGFoS facilitates comprehensive electromagnetic spectrum operations. Its design incorporates common, multiservice interfaces, which promote seamless information sharing across joint forces. This interoperability is crucial for synchronized operations, particularly in complex electromagnetic environments where coordination across different branches of the military is essential.
Deployment and Utility: The system’s portability allows it to be used in a variety of settings, from fixed sites to tactical vehicles and even in dismounted roles. This flexibility is critical for operations that require rapid mobility and the ability to adapt to dynamic threat environments.
Multi-Function Electronic Warfare Systems by Sierra Nevada Corporation
Advanced Design and Scalability: These systems are characterized by their industry-leading size, weight, and power (SWAP) specifications, making them ideal for a range of operational scenarios including land, air, sea, and space domains. The scalable modular design of these systems allows for seamless integration into existing and future military platforms, ensuring that they can be adapted for a wide range of missions and environments.
Proven Effectiveness: Deployed worldwide, the multi-function electronic warfare systems have demonstrated their effectiveness in critical situations ranging from homeland security operations to tactical deployments in conflict zones like Afghanistan. Their capability to operate across multi-domains and in various operational contexts underlines their importance to modern military strategies .
These jammers represent the cutting edge in electronic warfare and counter-drone technologies, providing versatile and effective solutions for military and security operations.
These technical advancements and strategic implementations underscore the U.S. Marine Corps’ commitment to maintaining superiority in electronic warfare and counter-drone operations, ensuring robust defense capabilities against evolving threats. These systems not only enhance the operational flexibility of the Marines but also significantly contribute to the overall security and effectiveness of the United States’ military endeavors.
The Marine Corps’ latest RFI is more than just a procurement document; it is a clear indication of the strategic shifts underway within the U.S. military to address the sophisticated challenges posed by drone warfare. By investing in advanced ammunition, electronic warfare capabilities, and cutting-edge detection technologies, the Marines are not only preparing to counter current drone threats but also positioning themselves ahead of future technological advancements in unmanned systems. This proactive approach is essential for maintaining tactical superiority and ensuring the security of U.S. forces in increasingly complex combat environments.
APPENDIX 1 – Recent Updates in Jammer Technology
Here are some of the latest advancements and updates in jammer technology for military applications:
Next Generation Jammer (NGJ) Mid-Band and Low Band (NGJ-MB and NGJ-LB)
- Developed By: US Navy in collaboration with Raytheon and L3Harris.
- Capabilities: The NGJ is designed to address advanced and emerging electronic warfare threats. It employs the latest digital software and Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technologies, providing enhanced capabilities to disrupt, deny, and degrade enemy air defense and ground communication systems.
- Recent Updates: The NGJ-MB has achieved Milestone C approval and entered the Production and Deployment phase. The NGJ-LB is in the engineering and manufacturing development phase, focusing on extending standoff jamming capabilities and covering a broad spectrum of frequencies .
DRONEKILLER Portable Drone Jammer
- Developed By: IXI Technology.
- Capabilities: This handheld jammer disrupts various drone control frequencies and can be integrated with wearable detectors for comprehensive counter-drone solutions.
- Recent Updates: Enhanced integration with other detection systems and improvements in field-upgradable software to counter evolving drone technologies .
BAE Systems Dual Band Decoy
- Developed By: BAE Systems.
- Capabilities: Designed to counter enemy attacks by jamming radio frequencies and providing false signals to confuse enemy radars.
- Recent Updates: The system is in development for the US Navy to enhance airborne electronic attack capabilities, addressing specific gaps in current defense systems.
L3Harris Advanced Jamming Solutions
- Developed By: L3Harris Technologies.
- Capabilities: Focused on resilient communication solutions and electronic warfare, these systems are designed to jam radars and communications effectively.
- Recent Updates: The company has submitted proposals for new jamming pods and continues to invest in technology to enhance electronic attack capabilities for the US military.
Raytheon CADRE (Controlled, Advanced, Distributed Radio Frequency Effects)
- Developed By: Raytheon Technologies.
- Capabilities: A modular and scalable electronic warfare system designed to integrate with various platforms, providing advanced jamming capabilities.
- Recent Updates: Increased funding and development efforts to advance the system’s readiness and integrate it with the Next Generation Jammer program.
NightFighter Series
NightFighter X
- Frequency Range: Covers 7 RF and GPS bands.
- Jamming Distance: Effective beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS).
- Power Supply: Quick release battery module for rapid changes.
- Weight: 6.0 kg.
- Dimensions: 70 x 38 x 22 cm.
- Capabilities: Effective against a wide range of drones and Wi-Fi enabled devices, suitable for dismounted operations.
- Recent Updates: Enhanced with SecondSight integration for real-time command and control, certified to UK Defence Standards, operational in complex RF environments.
NightFighter S
- Frequency Range: Covers Wi-Fi, GPS, military bands.
- Jamming Distance: Long-range, over-the-horizon (OTH).
- Power Supply: Battery-operated, comes with a backpack.
- Weight: Handset 5.0 kg, Backpack 11.0-14.5 kg.
- Dimensions: Handset: 70 x 38 x 22 cm, Backpack: 50 x 39 x 18 cm.
- Capabilities: Man-portable, suitable for long-range UAV neutralization, GPS denial.
- Recent Updates: Operational safety features, robust design for military use, network-enabled for integration with command and control systems.
NightFighter Mini
- Frequency Range: Wi-Fi.
- Jamming Distance: Visual line of sight (VLOS).
- Power Supply: Battery-operated.
- Weight: 2.1 kg.
- Dimensions: 35 x 18 x 8 cm.
- Capabilities: Sidearm or weapon-mounted for UAV mitigation.
- Recent Updates: Compact and ruggedized for easy deployment, meets safety and operational standards.
Technical Specifications and Capabilities
Here’s a summary table of the key technical specifications and capabilities of these systems:
| System | Manufacturer | Frequency Range | Capabilities | Recent Updates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Next Generation Jammer (NGJ) | US Navy, Raytheon, L3Harris | Mid-Band, Low-Band | Disrupts, denies, degrades enemy air defense and communications using AESA technology; provides long-range jamming capabilities. | Milestone C approval, production and deployment phase for NGJ-MB; engineering and manufacturing development for NGJ-LB. |
| DRONEKILLER Portable Drone Jammer | IXI Technology | 433MHz, 915MHz, 2.4GHz, 5.2GHz, 5.8GHz | Handheld jammer for drone control frequencies, integrates with wearable detectors for counter-drone operations. | Field-upgradable software and enhanced integration with detection systems. |
| Dual Band Decoy | BAE Systems | Not specified | Jams radio frequencies and provides false signals to confuse enemy radars. | Development for US Navy to enhance airborne electronic attack capabilities. |
| Advanced Jamming Solutions | L3Harris Technologies | Broad spectrum of frequencies | Resilient communication solutions, jamming radars and communications at long ranges. | Proposals for new jamming pods, continued investment in electronic warfare technology. |
| CADRE | Raytheon Technologies | Not specified | Modular and scalable system for advanced jamming capabilities; integrates with various platforms. | Increased funding and development efforts, integration with Next Generation Jammer program. |
| NightFighter X | SteelRock Technologies | 7 RF and GPS bands | Long range, BVLOS. Quick release battery module.6.0 kg | Handheld UAV neutralisation, GPS denial, dismounted operations.Integrated with SecondSight for real-time command and control integration, meets UK Defence Standards. |
These updates reflect significant advancements in jammer technology, focusing on increased effectiveness, adaptability, and integration with modern military systems to counter emerging threats.
