UAVs for the Operational Commander: Don't Ground MAV (Manned Aerial Vehicles)!

Abstract

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology has progressed considerably over the past twenty years. UAVs originally served only in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) roles, but now routinely conduct strikes in support of commanders' objectives. As UAVs are further integrated into the nation's Joint Air capabilities, many proponents assert that they will soon replace the full spectrum of manned platforms. This would include service in roles such as Air-to-Air superiority, Air-to-Ground strikes, Electronics Warfare (EW), Command and Control, and Sustainment operations. It is essential that proven UAV technology be carefully and methodically integrated into the commander's arsenal of aerial options. This paper identifies critical capabilities and limitations associated with UAVs, along with technical challenges and shortfalls that may or may not be remedied in the near future. Finally, it expands analysis to include options for the JFLCC, and concludes with recommendations for the operational commander.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 04, 2009
Accession Number
ADA503043

Entities

People

  • Joshua Sager

Organizations

  • Naval War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Autonomy

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aerial Warfare
  • Air Force
  • Air Power
  • Aircrafts
  • Airframes
  • Anti-Tank Missiles
  • Command And Control
  • Contingency Operations (Military)
  • Fighter Aircraft
  • Fixed Wing Aircraft
  • Military History
  • Military Operations
  • Unmanned Aerial Systems
  • Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
  • Unmanned Vehicles
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Aerial Unmanned Vehicle Swarm Micro Periodontal Dentistry.
  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.
  • Naval Mine Countermeasure Systems Development.

Technology Areas

  • Autonomy
  • Autonomy - UAVs
  • Fully Networked C3
  • Fully Networked C3 - Command and Control
  • Microelectronics