As evidenced by the Ukraine war, drones are increasingly becoming a cornerstone of modern warfare. While the United States has long employed drones like the Predator for various purposes, their operational scope has now expanded significantly.
Of particular interest are commercial drones repurposed for simple attack missions, as well as the successful integration of “homemade” drones in maritime operations.
The emergence of purpose-built military drones, inspired by their usage in Ukraine, suggests a forthcoming trend. This prospect is simultaneously fascinating and unsettling; while these drones are technically impressive, their potential as tools of warfare or terror raises legitimate concerns.
As a Dane, I advocate for the introduction of drones akin to the Predator model. Such technology would prove invaluable not only for search and rescue coordination and maritime surveillance during peacetime but also for military applications. Moreover, it stands to reason that drones would offer a more cost-effective alternative to the exorbitantly priced F-35 aircraft.
In addition to advancements in aerial drone technology, there’s a burgeoning array of new maritime drone designs, reflecting the ongoing evolution of unmanned systems. Furthermore, the emergence of garage-made aerial drones from Ukraine underscores the decentralized nature of innovation in this field.
Experimental US naval drone
New generation of arial drones
New Ukrainian long range drone