Marines Establish New ‘Fusion Center’ to Bridge Technology Gap

The U.S. Marine Corps has unveiled the “Fusion Center,” a new initiative aimed at facilitating the seamless transition of cutting-edge technologies into operational use.

Located at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, the center will serve as a central hub for aligning technological advancements developed by the Rapid Capabilities Office with the Marines’ evolving tactical requirements, Breaking Defense reported.

The initial focus of the Fusion Center will be on counter-unmanned aerial systems technology, a growing concern in light of the recent proliferation of drones in conflict zones such as Ukraine and the Middle East.

Kevin Murray, the Marines’ chief technology officer, said many promising technologies get stuck in the “valley of death” between development and full-scale production due to a lack of funding.

To address the issue, Murray said the Marines have reimagined the RCO, with the Fusion Center acting as a liaison that connects the office’s developments with the resources needed for wider implementation.

Brig. Gen. Stephen Lightfoot, a senior officer at the Marines’ capabilities development directorate, added that the center will enable Marines to collaboratively assess potential solutions and identify the ones that best address capability gaps.