An overview of unmanned and autonomous systems - Part 4: Air operations

Authors:

  • Jouni Rantakokko
  • Fredrik Näsström
  • Rogier Woltjer
  • Tomas Mårtensson
  • Martin Hagström
  • Anders Foyer

Publish date: 2022-02-09

Report number: FOI-R--5167--SE

Pages: 210

Written in: Swedish

Keywords:

  • unmanned
  • autonomous
  • UAV
  • RPAS
  • surveillance
  • reconnaissance
  • target acquisition
  • intelligence
  • attack
  • loyal wingman
  • loitering munition
  • relay node
  • electronic warfare
  • deception
  • logistics
  • casualty evacuation

Abstract

This report aims to provide a broad knowledge base for the Swedish Armed Forces capability development of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technologies, as well as counter UAV technologies, which have the potential to increase the deterrence capability threshold. Selected examples of unmanned aerial vehicles are presented in order to yield a representative picture of the technology development and of the capabilities that can be achieved with existing unmanned vehicles. The international development within the domain is also provided and relevant development tracks, and the associated new capabilities that they can realize, are described. Two typical development trends are the rapid proliferation of armed unmanned aerial vehicles and simpler, low-cost systems that enables taking higher risks during operations and can be procured in larger numbers. Furthermore, examples of critical research and development challenges that needs to be addressed in order to enable the new desired capabilities with sufficient operational efficiency are described. These challenges address various areas such as platform development, payload (sensors and weapons), robust navigation and communication systems, automation and autonomy, air space integration issues and human-machine interaction and teaming aspects.