The Unmanned Initiative: A Strategic Appraisal of Coast Guard Unmanned Aerial Systems

Abstract

Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) platforms have the potential to serve as effective force multipliers in the maritime environment by augmenting Coast Guard aviation in maritime intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), and enhancing maritime domain awareness (MDA). However, the UAS program has been plagued with numerous technological and funding uncertainties. As a result, the Coast Guard has been unable to develop an operational UAS program. This study uses analysis techniques such as literature search, interviews, and the author's personal knowledge--all becoming input to a strategic formulation methodology and risk assessment. This methodology will provide a structured analysis of the Coast Guard's strategic objective, strategic environment, strategic development, and decision points relating to the UAS program. Recommendations include combining the Customs and Border Patrol and Coast Guard Land-Based UAS programs, developing a Department of Homeland Security UAS strategic roadmap, and pursuing small tactical cutter-based UAS platforms as part of the Coast Guard UAS strategy.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 2011
Accession Number
ADA545609

Entities

People

  • John Egan

Organizations

  • National Defense University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Autonomy

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Aircrafts
  • Business Administration
  • Coast Guard
  • Congress
  • Department Of Homeland Security
  • Ground Control Stations
  • Homeland Security
  • Maritime Domain Awareness
  • National Security
  • Risk Analysis
  • Surveillance
  • Test And Evaluation
  • Unmanned Aerial Systems
  • Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
  • Vertical Takeoff Aircraft
  • War Colleges

Readers

  • Maritime Combat Support and Expeditionary Logistics.
  • Maritime Security/Maritime Homeland Security
  • Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Autonomous Capabilities and Mission Reconnaissance.

Technology Areas

  • Autonomy
  • Autonomy - UAVs