Unmanned Airlift: A Viable Option for Meeting the Strategic Airlift Shortfall
Abstract
This study examines whether there is a suitable role for unmanned airlifters in the USAF. A three-pronged approach is undertaken to make this determination: 1) an examination of the operational requirements that justify unmanned airlifters, 2) an investigation into current and emerging UAV technologies that are likely to meet the operational requirements, and 3) an analysis of the cost effectiveness of unmanned airlift, The author begins by establishing the fact that a strategic airlift shortfall exists, Mobility requirements studies conducted over the past 20 years illustrate the point that if the nation were called upon to fulfill the wartime requirements outlined in the National Security and Military Strategies to fight one major theater war and multiple small-scale conflicts, the Air Force would be woefully short of strategic airlift, The author postulates the concept of unmanned airlift as a potential solution for meeting the gap between requirements and existing capability, The author concludes that operational requirements for airlift could be satisfied within 10 to 20 years, and that technologies essential to unmanned airlift are indeed both a technological feasible and cost effective alternative for complementing and augmenting the USAF's fleet of venerable airlifters.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2002
- Accession Number
- ADA420609
Entities
People
- Chad T. Manske
Organizations
- Air University