Marines test advanced drone in Puerto Rico, highlighting growing reliance on small aerial systems
Camp Santiago, Puerto Rico – U.S. Marines recently deployed an advanced drone, the Vector eVTOL, during operations at Camp Santiago in Puerto Rico, as part of missions supporting U.S. Southern Command. The exercise underscores the increasing importance of small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) for surveillance, reconnaissance, and target detection across a range of military operations.
The Vector, manufactured by Germany-based defense technology company Quantum Systems, provides real-time reconnaissance and situational awareness through high-resolution imagery. Its capabilities have already been proven in active conflict zones, including Ukraine, according to the company.
The drone’s vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) capability eliminates the need for runways or specialized launch equipment, allowing for rapid deployment in confined spaces – a crucial advantage for expeditionary forces and forward-deployed units. The system transmits high-resolution imagery via a real-time data link, enabling operators to monitor activity and respond to emerging threats.
“Small unmanned aerial systems such as Vector are increasingly used across U.S. military operations,” Quantum Systems stated.
The Vector’s design incorporates an open systems architecture, allowing for future expansion of capabilities and mission roles. It also features onboard computing power and artificial intelligence to assist with data processing and reduce operator workload. Notably, the system’s modular design allows it to be quickly reconfigured as a multicopter without requiring changes to hardware, user interface, or training.
The deployment in Puerto Rico focused on disrupting illicit trafficking and safeguarding the homeland, according to the Marines. U.S. Southern Command oversees military activities in Central and South America, and the Caribbean.
Quantum Systems is currently expanding its production capacity, notably doubling it in Ukraine, to meet growing demand for its technology. This expansion reflects the critical role these systems play in modern warfare and security operations.