The U.S. Marine Corps is actively seeking a new anti-tank loitering munition, designed for the Fleet Marine Force. This new weapon system, named the Organic Precision Fires–Medium (OPF-M), is envisioned to significantly enhance the tactical reach and effectiveness of the Marines.
The OPF-M, a kamikaze-style drone, is expected to have a minimum range of 15 miles and be portable enough for two Marines to carry. A Request for White Paper from Marine Corps Systems Command elucidates, “Marines will employ OPF-M at the tactical level to enable engagement of armored targets beyond the range of direct fire weapons while minimizing collateral damage and exposure to enemy direct and indirect fires during distributed operations.”
The deadline for submissions is set for May 26, with the drone needing a loitering time of at least 20 minutes and a warhead capable of destroying or disabling armored vehicles. Specifications indicate a weight of under 35 pounds for the munition, and less than 20 pounds for the ground control station.
In terms of technology, the OPF-M must include automatic target tracking, allowing it to autonomously follow moving targets. Despite this autonomy, it is specified to be a “Man in the Loop system,” ensuring human oversight. Navigational waypoints can be pre-programmed or altered mid-flight, and the system should support a distributed control mechanism allowing transfer of drone control between ground stations.
The Marine Corps also foresees future enhancements, including the capability to target maritime threats, drones, and personnel formations. Further potential upgrades include advanced sensor packages, electromagnetic payloads, and the ability to operate in GPS-denied environments with improved anti-jamming communication systems.
The urgency of the project is highlighted by the request for production estimates for 50 munitions and 10 ground control stations, alongside expected production capacities for fiscal years 2027-28 and 2029-2031.
Simultaneously, the U.S. Army has commissioned AeroVironment with a $186 million contract for Switchblade loitering munitions. Recently, AeroVironment introduced the MAYHEM 10, a multifunctional drone variant for reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and strike missions, expanding its existing Switchblade lineup.
