I Marine Expeditionary Force Evaluates Fiber-Optic FPV Drones with Defense Innovation Unit
U.S. Marines with I Marine Expeditionary Force evaluated fiber-optic first-person view drones from Jan. 27-29, 2026, in partnership with the Defense Innovation Unit. This marked the first field evaluation of these drones for small unmanned aircraft systems in contested environments, focusing on maintaining command and control despite degraded radio-frequency links. The assessment involved Marines from multiple reconnaissance battalions and aimed to inform future technological improvements under Project G.I.
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From January 27-29, 2026, U.S. Marines with I Marine Expeditionary Force (I MEF) conducted the first field evaluation of fiber-optic first-person view (FPV) drones in collaboration with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU).
The assessment focused on operational capabilities in contested environments, emphasizing command-and-control integrity when radio-frequency links fail. Participating Marines evaluated system transport, setup, and integration with tactical tools.
The event supported industry feedback for technology improvements and was part of Project G.I., which accelerates the testing of solutions for warfighter challenges. Insights gained will inform future procurement pathways for the Department of War.
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