Opening the Aperture: Holistic Mitigation Options in Response to UAS Threats
Abstract
A synchronized collection of intelligence and investigative capacities, such as would be required to holistically mitigate the emerging threat from unmanned aircraft systems, does not currently exist within the United States government. Furthermore, the entities that do possess the authority, knowledge, and experience to respond are working within largely independent environments. This thesis seeks to identify the best method to collectivize individual agency strengths, unifying intelligence and investigative capacities into one juggernaut-level response against UAS threats. To address this, working groups, task forces, and single agency designation were chosen as potential options specifically for their historical precedence and likelihood of success. Each was compared according to their ability to embrace two defining characteristics: collaboration and commitment. The outcome of the analysis determined that the task force model was ultimately the most effective means to address UAS threats holistically. It mitigates the challenges associated with current technology and legal restrictions by utilizing intelligence and investigative operational capabilities to properly address each of the six steps within the UAS kill chain, all within an environment of high collaboration and commitment. The conclusions and accompanying recommendations outlined in this thesis provide a definitive direction as well as a rational plan of implementation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2022
- Accession Number
- AD1201828
Entities
People
- Michael W. Young
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School