Extending Operational Reach With Unmanned Systems
Abstract
While unmanned vehicles promise a multitude of operational capabilities and might be seen as a Revolution in Military Affairs, the focus of this discussion is primarily upon understanding their most constructive applications in support of the operational commander. The relative novelty of unmanned systems offers an opportunity for warfighters to provide their input during concept development to guarantee that systems accommodate their operational requirements. With caution and foresight, the ultimate potential of unmanned systems may be realized. Now that researchers are beginning to understand their capabilities, unmanned systems are quickly becoming indispensable. It is essential to develop a commensurate understanding of the impact of this resource, particularly upon operational warfare. Perhaps the greatest contribution that unmanned vehicles can make is as an extension of operational reach as an adjunct to, not a replacement for, human decision making. Unmanned systems allow the operational commander the ability to extend his or her reach in terms of space, time, and force. As to their proper status, unmanned vehicles are tools. How the military uses these tools is more relevant than the kinds of technologies they proffer. Unmanned systems are already capable of giving us more information than we require and demanding more of our attention than we can spare. The problem will be exacerbated as systems progress and proliferate. (5 figures, 23 refs.)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 16, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA417223
Entities
People
- Rand D. Lebouvier
Organizations
- Naval War College