Small Attack Drone Operators Course

A
Division Schools
Headquarters Battalion

 

 

Course Overview

Welcome to the 1st Marine Division Schools Small Attack Drone Operator Course (SADOC). This course certifies Marines in First Person View (FPV) piloting, operational execution, and employment in collective training environments. SADOC is an intensive 15-day course requiring total attention, discipline, and commitment from each student.

 

 

 

Course Information

Course Duration: 15 Training Days

Location: Nite-Lab Classroom, 1st Mar Div Schools, Bldg # 33402, 33 Area, Camp Pendleton, CA.

  • Daily Schedule:

    • Morning Formation: 0815 at the Nite-Lab.

    • Class Hours: 0830 - 1700.

    • Typical Day: Includes classroom instruction, FPV Simulator training, and live flights.

 
 

Prerequisites & Screening

Parent commands must screen their Marines to ensure they meet all prerequisites. Failure to meet these requirements will result in the Marine being turned away from the course.

Student Requirements:

  • Minimum GT score of 100.

  • Must be BUQ-1 and BUQ-2 qualified.

  • Must be in a Full Duty medical status.

  • Must not be colorblind.

  • Students are expected to maintain an 80% grade point average.

  • A NAVMED or Battalion Commander waiver is required to fly during the live flight portion of the course.

Command Screening Checklist:
The command must verify that the Marine has no significant life factors that could interrupt their focus during this intensive course. This includes:

  • No financial hardship.

  • No family hardship.

  • No pending legal matters.

  • No extensive appointments.

  • Reduced or no off-duty education.

  • The Marine must be free from other obligations to their parent command for the duration of the course.

 
 
Course Dates (Updated 5 February 2026)
 
SADOC 3-26
2 February - 20 February
 
SADOC 4-26
2 March - 20 March
 

 

 

Reporting Instructions

  • Check-In: 0745 on T-Day 1 at the Nite-Lab Classroom.

  • Reporting Uniform: Woodland MARPAT Utilities with 8-point cover.

  • Directions: The school is located in the 33 Area, in the HQBN Supply Building. Please use the lot labeled "student parking."

Required Documents & Gear List

1. Required Documents for Check-In:

  • Completed Command Screening Checklist.

  • Current Basic Individual Record (BIR).

  • Current Basic Training Record (BTR).

  • BUQ 1 and 2 Certification.

  • NAVMED or Battalion Commander Waiver (if applicable).

2. Gear List:

  • Administrative:

    • CAC

    • Notetaking Gear (e.g., Rite in the Rain)

    • Protractor & Map Pens

    • TAK/EUD (optional)

  • Uniform of the Day:

    • Woodland MARPAT Utilities

    • 8 Point Cover

  • Field Gear (Required for T-Day 9 & 10 Only):

    • Desert FROGs or Woodland MARPAT Utilities

    • Boonie Cover

    • Wristwatch

    • Assault Pack

    • Kevlar Helmet

    • Plate Carrier with Front/Back SAPIs

    • Chest Rig (Sub Belt optional)

    • 6 Magazines

    • IFAK

    • Eye and Ear Protection

    • Gloves

    • Cammie Paint

    • 50ft of 550 Cord

    • Rifle Sling

    • Camelbak

    • Tarp

 

Lodging & Chow

Billeting: Billeting is available for Marines not local to Camp Pendleton. Contact the Billeting POC, GySgt Acosta, at (832)-607-1784

Chow: Students may utilize the 33 Area or 22 Area Chow Hall. MREs will be provided during field training days.

 
Contact Us
Deputy Director
Captain Michael Olivarez
Office Number: 760-725-8757
 
SNCOIC
Gunnery Sergeant Jose L. AcostaGarcia
Office Number: 760-725-8759
 
Operations Chief
Gunnery Sergeant Philip T. Talbert II
Office Number: 760-725-8758
 
Course OIC, Small Attack Drone Operators Course
1st Lieutenant Nicholas M. Forthman
Cell: 443-974-3403
 
Course Chief Instructor, Small Attack Drone Operators Course
Sergeant Justin P. Goupil
Cell: 619-451-8691