A role for remotely manned sensors over the battlefield

John W. Ellis

Expert InsightsPublished 1978

Air operations on future tactical battlefields will have to face a technologically advanced and highly dense air defense system; thus it will not be prudent to rely on low- and slow-flying manned aircraft to provide surveillance, target acquisition and fire control. This paper proposes the use of mini-RPVs equipped with imaging sensors and data links to ground control stations. This will eliminate the use of men operating in the hazardous environment over the battlefield, will be sufficiently survivable through proliferation and reduced vulnerability, and can be utilized by both the Army and the Air Force. An example of how such a system can be integrated into battlefield operations is outlined, and benefits to be obtained are discussed.

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Document Details

  • Copyright: RAND Corporation
  • Availability: Web Only
  • Year: 1978
  • Pages: 21
  • Document Number: P-6255

Citation

Chicago Manual of Style

Ellis, John W., A role for remotely manned sensors over the battlefield. Santa Monica, CA: RAND Corporation, 1978. https://www.rand.org/pubs/papers/P6255.html.
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