The Proliferation Of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles And The Threat To The United States

Abstract

The proliferation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) is both a benefit and treat to the security of the United States. The use of UAVs by terrorist poses a serious threat to the American public if left unaddressed. By comparing the capabilities provided by UAV and our current security measures, it is easy to see the gaping holes in our current protection. These gaping holes in our security coupled with the terrorist predisposition to use aerial assets as a primary method to conduct terrorist attacks highlight the urgency of the threat. Identifying and understanding the threat is just the first part of the problem. The challenge is combating this emerging threat. The rapid proliferation in the public and private sector makes identifying, tracking and disabling UAVs used for terrorist activities extremely difficult. The solution will require a comprehensive approach comprising public education, UAV marking, tracking of key components and changes in current security measures. Only by acknowledging the threat and implementing significant changes can we hope to avoid another aerial attack on American soil.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 10, 2016
Accession Number
AD1037524

Entities

People

  • David C Lionberger

Organizations

  • Air War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Autonomy
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aircrafts
  • Cognitive Systems Engineering
  • Computer Programs
  • Governments
  • Law
  • Micro Air Vehicles
  • Mobile Phones
  • National Security
  • Remotely Piloted Vehicles
  • Students
  • Terrorists
  • Transport Aircraft
  • United States
  • United States Government
  • Unmanned Aerial Systems
  • Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
  • War Colleges

Readers

  • Robotics and Automation.
  • Strategic Security Studies

Technology Areas

  • Autonomy
  • Autonomy - UAVs