Drones are Here to Stay: The Proliferation of Unmanned Aerial Systems Across the Spectrum of War
Jun 28, 2024
auto_awesome
Exploring the use of drones in warfare, from state to non-state actors. Discussing drone proliferation in conflict zones like Ukraine. Examining ethical considerations of unmanned aerial systems and challenges in countering FPV drones. Delving into DJI's role in the drone market and the positive potential of small UAS in warfare.
Non-state actors creatively use drones for military innovation tactics, bridging the technology gap with advanced states.
State militaries and non-state groups alike embrace drones, showcasing the democratization of air power in modern warfare.
Drone technology empowers non-state actors with precision capabilities, but challenges like battery life and security vulnerabilities persist.
Deep dives
Violent Non-State Actors Harness Full Potential of Unmanned Platforms
Violent non-state actors exploit the unrestricted potential of unmanned platforms in warfare, unlike states constrained by norms. These actors bridge the technology gap by using drones creatively, like organizing drone races as a military innovation strategy. This tactic allows non-state groups to fully leverage the innovative capacities of small UAS technology.
Democratization of Air Power through UAS Proliferation
Research by Dr. Kerry Chavez highlights a shift in UAS technology adoption, pointing to a broader range of actors, not just advanced states. Commercial drones lowered capacity thresholds, enabling violent non-state actors to field their air forces. Cases like Russia-Ukraine war demonstrate state militaries adopting small UAS, emphasizing the democratization of air power.
Impact on Non-State Actors' Warfare Capabilities
Drone technology provides violent non-state actors with precision strike, ISR, and anti-personnel capabilities, offering a force multiplier against better-equipped adversaries. Commercial platforms enhance warfare tactics, allowing groups to conduct multi-domain military operations. However, challenges like battery limitations and electronic warfare vulnerabilities exist.
Ethical and Normative Challenges of Unmanned Platforms
Non-state actors operate drones without adherence to normative constraints, unlike states with military-grade drone regulations. This freedom allows non-state groups to exploit drones for various military initiatives, impacting global warfare dynamics. Challenges arise in ethical use and capability escalation, necessitating a balance between security and ethical considerations.
Private Sector Role and Supply Chain Implications
The private sector, led by companies like DJI, plays a significant role in UAS supply chains. DJI dominates the market despite restrictions in the US government. Addressing vulnerabilities and creating cost-effective countermeasures in the private sector is crucial. Collaboration between security providers and industry experts is essential in developing proactive solutions.
Episode 108 examines the use of unmanned aerial systems across the spectrum of conflict. This episode is part of IWI’s special project, Project Air and Space Power.
Our guests explore the use of the full range of UAS technology by both state and nonstate actors. They unpack the democratization of air power through the proliferation of small unmanned systems and address the race to find cheaper countermeasures for the technology. Finally, they address the advent of automation and the impact of private sector involvement.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode