DECEIVING THE ENEMY: THESE ARE THE DRONES YOU ARE LOOKING FOR
Abstract
Tactical Deception (TD) has always been a critical part of warfare, and it can still be a decisive factor today, especially through the use of physical deception that relies on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). This paper examines how the military can more effectively employ Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (or drones) in a TD role by using physical deception to execute both aviation and ground combat missions more adequately. This thesis will use the problem/solution framework to examine the issues of aircraft vulnerability in the low altitude flight regime and downed aircrew capture, both areas which have not benefited significantly from advancements in military technology and tactics. Physical deception UAVs, which deceive the eyes and ears of the adversary rather than electronic systems, are analyzed as alternatives for these two operational areas. The analysis determines physical deception UAVs can be beneficial in decreasing risk to air and ground combatants during mission execution by causing adversaries to expend resources, delay their reactions, or react incorrectly to tactical situations. The research recommends the development and fielding of two specific types of physical deception UAVs, the Mission Wingmen UAV and the Shootdown UAV.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1040765
Entities
People
- Phyllis Nixon
Organizations
- Air Command and Staff College