Unmanned Aircraft Systems against Air Threats: The Semi-Direct Control System

Unmanned cargo aircraft (UCA), which we may see being developed in the coming years, have characteristics that make them suitable for a variety of military operations. The absence of flightcrew and the resulting freedom to use novel configurations reduce costs. The decoupling of aircraft and crew whereby the controller operates from a fixed site regardless of the UCA’s location facilitates planning and basing and increases utilization, and hence productivity. UCA are expected to be able to move relatively small cargo loads efficiently, thereby increasing flexibility of resupply. The application of dual-use technology may spread development cost over a relatively large production run and facilitate the use of support infrastructure during outof-area operations. There are limitations too, mostly related to the fact that UCA have yet to be introduced into service. In this article we investigate the potential and limitations of UCA and offer a development agenda.