Will drone motherships form part of tomorrow’s warfare?
US Army’s 11th Armoured Cavalry Regiment tests a swarm of 40 drones. (Photo: US Army)
While motherships offer multiple operational advantages, the changes in the character of warfare may bring new tactics to the battlefield, reducing their role.
The deployment of drone motherships in Ukraine and in the Middle East has shown the potential of this type of capability. Although it provides multiple advantages to military services, its presence in tomorrow’s warfare is not assured.
The use of large UAVs, UGVs and USVs to transport swarms of small drones can enhance troops’ safety, range, precision, and lethality in multidomain theatres.
Speaking in a recent webinar conducted by the US-based think tank Brookings Institution, Gen David H. Berger, former US Marine Corps Commandant, claimed that “autonomy, autonomous systems and robotics became a way to make yourself bigger than you
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Sweden signs contract for $552 million Gripen E/F sale to Thailand]()
Sweden signs contract for $552 million Gripen E/F sale to Thailand
The confirmed order now makes Thailand the third country to operate the Gripen E/F aircraft, after sales to Sweden and Brazil.
-
![Will the Eurofighter Typhoon’s fight for new markets prevail?]()
Will the Eurofighter Typhoon’s fight for new markets prevail?
Poland and Turkey are often cited as potential fresh export opportunities for the Eurofighter Typhoon. But are the sales prospects realistic and what factors could tip the balance?
-
![India revives Netra Mk-II AWACS after Airbus cost dispute]()
India revives Netra Mk-II AWACS after Airbus cost dispute
India has cleared higher retrofit costs for six ageing Airbus A321s to be converted into Netra Mk-II airborne surveillance platforms, marking progress in a long-delayed AWACS programme but raising questions over lifespan and operational value.
-
![Lockheed nets $43 million US Army contract for Black Hawk modernisation]()
Lockheed nets $43 million US Army contract for Black Hawk modernisation
The initial funds will focus on the foundational capabilities to modernise the attack helicopter, including digital architecture that will allow for launched effects and UAS integration.
