VMU-1

Marine Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Squadron 1 (VMU-1), known as the "Watchdogs," is a United States Marine Corps unit specializing in unmanned aerial reconnaissance and surveillance. Originally activated as 1st Remotely Piloted Vehicle Platoon in 1984 at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, it evolved into VMU-1 in 1987. The squadron has deployed in support of major operations including Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom, providing critical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) to Marine forces. VMU-1 continues to pioneer the integration of unmanned aerial systems into Marine Corps operations, enhancing situational awareness and battlefield effectiveness.