Marine Corps explores remotely operated/unmanned vehicles for weapon platforms

The Marine Corps is interested in remotely operated/unmanned vehicles capable of hosting "various large weapons platforms," according to a request for information published on Monday evening.

The service anticipates an acquisition objective of 60 units, ready for initial fielding in the first quarter of fiscal year 2024.

“This Special Notice serves as announcement of the Intent to Sole Source for the modification of the base award to Oshkosh Defense, LLC. for the procurement of additional Carriers, also known as, Remote Operated Ground Unit Expeditionary-FIRES and ancillary support equipment and services for the Long-Range Fires program,” the RFI states.

The announcement stipulates the system’s mobility and deployability should be roughly equal to that of the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle. Systems that are based upon or incorporate existing Marine Corps technology are favored by the service.

The system must be able to load C-130 and larger aircraft in addition to “amphibious shipping and connectors,” the announcement states. The complete system can weigh no more than 24,000 lbs with platform power of up to 10 kW.

Responses to the RFI are required by Oct. 3.