Marine Corps gives wings to AI in new aviation strategy

The Marine Corps has released a new aviation strategy emphasizing autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, and a shift in F-35 fighter procurement to modernize its air combat capabilities.

Strategic overview: The 2025 Marine Corps Aviation Plan introduces “Project Eagle,” a comprehensive modernization initiative focused on enhancing operational readiness and combat effectiveness through advanced technologies.

• The plan, signed by Lt. Gen. Bradford Gering, marks the service’s first aviation strategy update in three years
• Project Eagle emphasizes the integration of AI-driven software, autonomous systems, and drones to ensure aircraft survivability in contested environments
• Col. Derek Brannon highlighted the plan’s focus on rapid response capabilities and technological innovation across all domains

F-35 procurement changes: The Marine Corps is significantly adjusting its fighter jet acquisition strategy while maintaining its total planned fleet size of 420 aircraft.

• The new plan calls for 280 F-35B variants (capable of vertical landing) and 140 F-35C carrier-based variants
• This represents more than double the number of F-35Cs compared to the 2022 plan, which specified 353 F-35Bs and 67 F-35Cs
• Four Marine Fighter Attack Squadrons will transition to F-35C squadrons, resulting in 12 F-35B and 8 F-35C squadrons
• By the end of 2025, the Corps expects delivery of 183 F-35Bs and 52 F-35Cs

Operational concepts: The strategy introduces new approaches to air combat operations designed to enhance survivability and decision-making.

• Distributed aviation operations focus on spreading out squadrons, command-and-control agencies, and support units to reduce vulnerability to enemy attacks
• Decision-centric aviation operations employ AI to accelerate combat decision-making processes
• The plan emphasizes developing drone wingmen (collaborative combat aircraft) to operate alongside F-35s

Sustainment modernization: Traditional aircraft maintenance and support methods are being updated to meet current and future operational demands.

• The Corps is redesigning support equipment for improved efficiency and safety
• Modern training systems and digital modeling are being implemented to enhance the supply chain
• Additive manufacturing technologies are being integrated into maintenance operations
• The strategy encourages innovation among aviation sustainment personnel to improve aircraft readiness

Future implications: The Marine Corps’ embrace of AI and autonomous systems, coupled with its revised F-35 procurement strategy, signals a significant shift toward more flexible and technologically sophisticated air operations, though successful implementation will depend heavily on the maturation of emerging technologies and the service’s ability to adapt its training and maintenance practices accordingly.