MARINE CORPS AIR STATION YUMA, Ariz. – Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron One (VMX-1) achieved a major milestone on November 12, 2025, with the first flight of a Marine Corps-owned MQ-9A Reaper from Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Yuma. This event is a critical step in the long-term effort to integrate the advanced unmanned aircraft system (UAS) into the Aviation Combat Element (ACE).
The MQ-9A is a Group 5 UAS that enhances the Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) by providing persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), as well as airborne network extension.
MCAS Yuma is a primary hub for Marine Corps aviation training, including the Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) course. Previously, the Corps relied on contractor-owned MQ-9A aircraft for these exercises. This new, organic capability gives the Marine Corps direct control of the platform for test and evaluation, which will accelerate the development of tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs).
As the Marine Corps’ designated operational test squadron, VMX-1 is uniquely positioned to lead this integration. The squadron is responsible for assessing new aviation capabilities to inform acquisition decisions and ensure fleet readiness.
"As the home of Marine Corps Operational Test and Evaluation, VMX-1 is not solely focused on the advancement of individual aircraft or systems, but rather our objective is to advance the Marine Corps’ ability to operate and fight as a Marine Air Ground Task Force," said the VMX-1 Chief Operational Test Director. "The integration of the MQ-9A into VMX-1’s existing fleet is pivotal in characterizing its contributions to the MAGTF and developing the appropriate systems, tactics, techniques, and procedures that maximize the aircraft's utility and lethality.”
This flight is the first of many for the growing Marine Corps UAS fleet at MCAS Yuma. In the coming months, VMX-1 will continue to refine TTPs as it prepares to integrate the MQ-9A into future WTI courses and other large-scale exercises.