Marines to Add Robotics, Autonomous Systems to Modernize Corps

The Marine Corps may be adding a new job field focusing on robotics and automation, as it continues its mission to modernize the force. 

Updates to the Force Design 2030 were published on June 6, identifying technology including robotics and automation as a topic of investment interest, and allowing the Marines to operate faster, less expensively and at a lower risk. 

“We will develop a strategy to incorporate intelligent robotics and autonomous systems (IRAS) across the enterprise and recruit and retain Marines who are experts in their employment,” according to the document.

Also included in the latest update were plans to modernize installations of the force’s logistics, build an “integrated sustainment network” and use data to inform training and decision making. The Corps also said it will continue collaborating with the Navy to incorporate technologies to “enable kill webs” across domains – referring to a system that uses virtual defensive strategies to identify and intercept missile attacks. 

The Force Design 2030 is a restructuring plan for the Corps, outlining several strategies to modernize operations. 

One of the primary areas for development is in data collection and management, and devising strategies to leverage this data for training and operational management purposes.

“Over the past few years, the Marine Corps has made progress in its strategic investments in data science, but there is much more to do,” the document said. “We must embrace the relevance of data as a critical element in collaboration, performance enhancement, training, talent management, and shared understanding amongst commanders for decision making in the 21st century. 

“By focusing on data and advanced computing power, combined with leader experience, we will foster a cultural shift to achieve fully effective decision making.”