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2024-09-10

Aerial Chameleons: UAVs Adapt to Varied Missions

Military Robotics - Part 2

As we continue our thrilling journey into the realm of military robotics, having navigated the rugged terrains commanded by Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) in our previous edition, we now shift our gaze to the boundless skies where Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) soar with precision and purpose.

While ground-based robots laid the foundation for modern warfare with their strength and resilience, it’s in the aerial domain that the future of reconnaissance, surveillance, and strategic strikes truly takes flight.

Welcome to the second chapter of our series, where we explore UAVs, the aerial warriors that are redefining the battle for the skies.

Key Components of Military UAVs

UAVs, also known as drones, come in various sizes, from small tactical drones to large, long-endurance platforms. Military UAVs are intricate systems crafted for a wide array of defence and security applications. Their effectiveness depends on several crucial components that seamlessly integrate to deliver diverse functionalities.

They operate without a human pilot on board and are controlled either autonomously by onboard computers or remotely by human operators.

Below are the primary components of military UAVs:

Airframe: The UAV’s physical structure includes the fuselage, wings, and landing gear. It provides the aerodynamic shape needed for flight, houses essential components, and ensures structural integrity. Designed to be lightweight yet robust, the airframe can withstand various environmental conditions.

Propulsion System: This system includes engines, motors, propellers, or turbines that generate the thrust required for flight. It varies from electric motors in smaller UAVs to jet engines in larger models, depending on the UAV type.

Control System: The control system comprises the flight controller, navigation system, and autopilot. It manages the UAV’s flight dynamics, stability, and manoeuvring, processing inputs from various sensors to maintain control and execute flight paths.

Sensors and Payloads: Sensors such as cameras (optical and infrared), radar, and LiDAR provide data collection capabilities for surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting. These sensors deliver real-time imagery, thermal imaging, radar mapping, and support electronic warfare.

Communication System: This system includes radio transmitters, receivers, and sometimes satellite links. It enables communication between the UAV and ground control stations, including data links for transmitting control commands, telemetry data, and real-time sensor information.

Navigation and Guidance Systems: Utilising GPS and inertial navigation technologies, these systems provide accurate positioning and navigation.

Power Supply: The power supply includes batteries, fuel cells, or internal combustion engines. It provides the energy necessary for propulsion, avionics, and payload operation. Battery life and fuel capacity are crucial for the UAV’s endurance and operational range.

Onboard Computer: The onboard computer acts as the central processing unit, managing various UAV functions. It executes flight control algorithms, processes sensor data, and coordinates communication, supporting autonomous operations and mission planning.

Payload Integration System: This system features mechanisms for mounting and deploying payloads, allowing the UAV to carry and release various payloads such as munitions and additional sensors.

Landing Gear: The landing gear comprises wheels, skids, or floats, supporting the UAV during takeoff, landing, and ground operations. The design of the landing gear depends on the UAV’s intended operating environment, whether land or water.

Thermal and Environmental Protection: This includes insulation, cooling systems, and weatherproofing to protect sensitive components from extreme temperatures, humidity, and other environmental factors, ensuring reliable operation in various conditions.

Security Systems: Military UAVs are equipped with encryption and anti-tampering technologies to safeguard data transmission and prevent unauthorised access to control systems and payloads.

Type of Military UAVs

Military UAVs can be classified based on their primary applications and operational roles. Each type is designed to fulfil specific missions and support many aspects of military operations.

Here are the main types of military UAVs categorised by their applications:

Reconnaissance and Surveillance UAVs: These UAVs are designed to gather intelligence and provide real-time situational awareness. They are equipped with high-resolution cameras, radar, and other sensors for monitoring and collecting data over large areas. Notable examples include the RQ-4 Global Hawk, known for its high-altitude, long-endurance strategic reconnaissance, and the Heron 1, which offers long-range Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities with various sensor payloads.

Strike and Combat UAVs: These are designed to conduct precision strikes and engage enemy targets. They are equipped with munitions such as missiles and bombs, along with advanced targeting systems for accurate engagement. Examples include the MQ-9 Reaper, which carries Hellfire missiles and precision-guided munitions, and the Bayraktar TB2, a tactical UAV capable of deploying smart bombs and missiles.

Combat Support UAVs: These UAVs aid ground forces with operational support, including targeting and communication. Examples include the Predator B for ISR and combat support, and the Tornado for tactical reconnaissance.

Maritime Patrol UAVs: These UAVs secure maritime areas with radar and infrared sensors. Examples include the Heron TP for maritime patrol and the CH-4 for surveillance.

Targeting and Strike UAVs: These UAVs provide precision strikes by relaying targeting data and coordinating operations. Examples include the Eitan (Heron TP) for ISR and the MALE (Medium Altitude Long Endurance) UAV for target acquisition and coordination.

Electronic Warfare UAVs: These UAVs conduct electronic warfare by jamming and counter-surveillance. They are equipped with countermeasures to disrupt enemy communications and radar. Examples include the RQ-7 Shadow, used for electronic surveillance and countermeasures, and the Harpy, designed for electronic warfare and radar disruption.

Reconnaissance and Intelligence UAVs: These UAVs gather detailed intelligence with high-resolution imaging and data collection tools. Examples include the RQ-11 Raven for close-range reconnaissance and the Wasp III for lightweight, tactical ISR.

Search and Rescue UAVs: These UAVs assist in locating and rescuing personnel, equipped with imaging and communication tools. Examples include the Puma 3 AE for advanced imaging and the RQ-20 Puma for ISR in rescue operations.

Logistics and Resupply UAVs: These UAVs transport supplies and equipment to remote or contested areas. Examples include the K-MAX, an unmanned helicopter for cargo resupply, and the Black Hornet, which supports small-scale logistics in some configurations.

Training UAVs: These UAVs are designed to train personnel in UAV operation and tactics. They simulate different UAV types and missions with simplified or cost-effective designs. Examples include the RQ-20 Puma, used for training in reconnaissance, and the Kestrel, which mimics the flight characteristics of advanced military UAVs.

Military UAVs Across Nations

Let’s explore some of the best military UAVs used by armed forces around the world, along with their primary applications:

MQ-9 ReaperThe MQ-9 Reaper is used for ISR and precision strikes. It features multiple sensors, including radar and cameras, and is armed with Hellfire missiles and other munitions.

The MQ-9 Reaper was developed by the U.S. Air Force to support overseas contingency operations. Larger and more powerful than the MQ-1 Predator, it is designed for precision strikes and target destruction. The “M” denotes multi-role, “Q” stands for remotely piloted aircraft, and “9” indicates it is the ninth in the series.

The Reaper primarily serves as an intelligence-collection asset and secondarily for dynamic execution targets. Its significant loiter time, wide-range sensors, multi-mode communications, and precision weapons enable it to conduct strikes, coordination, and reconnaissance on high-value, fleeting, and time-sensitive targets.

The Reaper performs close air support, combat search and rescue, precision strikes, buddy-lase, convoy overwatch, route clearance, target development, and terminal air guidance.

The system includes a sensor and weapon-equipped aircraft, ground control station, satellite link, and support equipment, with operations and maintenance crews for continuous missions.

Its baseline system carries the Multi-Spectral Targeting System, which has a robust suite of visual sensors for targeting. The MTS-B integrates an infrared sensor, colour, monochrome daylight TV camera, shortwave infrared camera, laser designator, and laser illuminator.

RQ-4 Global Hawk

The RQ-4 Global Hawk is a high-altitude, long-endurance, remotely piloted aircraft with an integrated sensor suite that provides global all-weather, day or night ISR capability.

Its mission is to provide a broad spectrum of ISR collection capability to support joint combatant forces in worldwide peacetime, contingency and wartime operations. It provides persistent near-real-time coverage using imagery intelligence (IMINT), signals intelligence (SIGINT) and moving target indicator (MTI) sensors.

It is fielded in three blocks. Block 10s were retired in 2011. Block 20s, initially for IMINT, have been converted to EQ-4 communication relays with the Battlefield Airborne Communication Node (BACN).

Block 30, operational since August 2011, features electro-optical, infrared, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and SIGINT sensors.

Block 40, with Radar Technology Insertion Programme (RTIP) radar for MTI and SAR, began early operations in September 2013.

The Global Hawk is operated by a Launch and Recovery Element (LRE) and a Mission Control Element.

Predator XP

The Predator XP continues the GA-ASI Predator Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) series, which started with the RQ-1 in 1995. It has the highest operational readiness rate in the U.S. Air Force and is used by the U.S. Government, Italian Air Force, and international customers.

With an endurance of 35 hours and a maximum altitude of 25,000 feet, it features updated technologies such as automatic takeoff and landing, redundant flight controls, and enhanced avionics. It supports both Line-of-Sight (LOS) and Beyond-Line-of-Sight (BLOS) operations.

Equipped with Electro-optical Infrared (EO/IR) cameras, GA-ASI’s Lynx Multi-mode Radar with SAR, and Maritime Wide Area Search (MWAS) mode, it excels in a range of ISR missions, including coastal surveillance and search and rescue. It also includes an Automatic Identification System (AIS) for maritime vessel identification.

It features an automatic takeoff and landing system (ATLS) that allows the aircraft to be launched and recovered without any operator interaction.

Heron TP

The Heron TP is utilised for ISR missions, and also possesses strike capabilities. It features long endurance and is equipped to carry various payloads, including weapons and sensors.

The Heron TP system turns the once-imagined goals of comprehensive intelligence, surprise control, enemy insight, and all-weather, long-endurance presence into a strategic reality for military organisations and sovereign states.

The UAV comes equipped with automatic taxi-takeoff and landing systems (ATOL), and satellite communication (SATCOM) for extended range missions, backed by fully redundant avionics for operational integrity.

Operational within the Israeli Air Force, the UAV carries a combat pedigree and uncompromising operational superiority. It is deployed in air forces such as Germany’s, and tracked by other defence forces worldwide. The platform accommodates a wide array of operational requirements with its multi-mission and multi-payload configurations, capable of handling payloads exceeding 1000 kg (about 2204.62 lb).

The Heron TP handles multiple missions and payloads at altitudes up to 45,000 feet.

Tornado

The Tornado is used for ISR, tactical reconnaissance, and ground operation support, featuring advanced imaging systems and the ability to carry various payloads.

The Tornado is a lightweight, high-speed, mini-turbojet decoy system with autonomous navigation, pre-strike decoy and fire & forget capabilities. The system consists of eight decoy aircraft, a pneumatic catapult launcher system and a portable ground station for pre-programming mission profiles.

It is designed for decoy missions where simulation of actual fighter aircraft is required and the ground control stations provides simultaneous multiple-vehicle flight capability with a range in excess of 200 km.

ANKA III

The ANKA-3 MIUS (Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle) represents a significant leap in Türkiye’s defence capabilities, designed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). This jet-powered UAV is engineered for high-speed operations, capable of both air-to-ground and air-to-air engagements, marking it as a versatile and potent asset in modern military aviation.

Equipped with a jet engine, the ANKA-3 can reach a top speed of 0.7 Mach (800 km/h), offering rapid deployment and quick response in combat scenarios. With a weight of seven tonnes and a maximum takeoff weight of 6,500 kilogrammes, it can carry a useful payload of 1,200 kilogrammes, supporting a variety of weapons and surveillance equipment.

A key feature of the ANKA-3 is its low radar signature, enhancing survivability in contested airspace by evading enemy radar detection.

CH UAVs

The CH-1 system is used for surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strikes, featuring a design and capabilities similar to the MQ-9 Reaper, including various sensors and weapon systems.

The CH-1 is the first UAV in the Rainbow (CH) series, designed by Shi Wen, who also developed the CH-2 and its derivatives. Launched in 2000, the CH-1’s success led to further UAV designs. It is powered by a rear-mounted pusher engine with a two-blade propeller and launched via a vehicle-mounted catapult with rocket-assisted takeoff.

The CH-2 focuses on reconnaissance and surveillance missions. The CH-3, a fixed-wing UCAV, features a unique canard layout with no central vertical tail, large winglets, and canards, powered by a three-blade propeller.

The CH-3A, an upgraded version, includes a 100 kg payload capacity and satellite data link, capable of carrying AR-1 laser-guided rockets.

The CH-4 resembles the MQ-9 Reaper but lacks a ventral fin below the V-tail.

The CH-4A is a reconnaissance drone with a range of 3,500–5,000 km and a 30- to 40-hour endurance, while the CH-4B is a mixed attack and reconnaissance system with a payload of up to 345 kg and the ability to fire air-to-ground missiles from 5,000 metres.

The CH-5 is the latest UCAV with a 21-meter wingspan, 1,000 kg payload, and 60-hour endurance. The CH-7, a stealthy flying wing UCAV, is similar to the X-47B and is capable of high-speed operations with a 15-hour endurance.

Other models include the CH-10 tilt-rotor UAV, CH-91 and CH-92 fixed-wing UAVs, CH-802 and CH-803 micro air vehicles, and the CH-901 UCAV, each designed for specific missions.

Bayraktar TB2

The Bayraktar TB2 supports tactical ISR and strike missions, carrying precision-guided munitions and providing real-time data to operators.

Developed and manufactured by Baykar, this integrated system includes the Bayraktar TB2 UAV, Ground Control Station, Data Terminal, Remote Display Terminal, and support modules. All components are produced indigenously.

An onboard avionic suite with a triple redundant avionic system encompasses units enabling a fully autonomous taxiing, take-off, landing and cruise. TB2 has proven its efficacy with over 800,000 of operational flight hours. Since 2014, it keeps carrying out missions successfully within the Turkish Armed Forces, Gendarmerie and the Turkish National Police.

Bayraktar TB2 holds the record in the Turkish aviation history for endurance (with 27 hours, 3 minutes) and for altitude (with 25,030 feet).

Protector RG Mk 1 (MQ-9B)

The Protector RG Mk 1 (MQ-9B) is the successor to the Reaper (MQ-9A) and represents the next generation of MALE remotely piloted aircraft. It will enhance the Royal Air Force’s (RAF) armed ISTAR operations with up to 40 hours of continuous flight.

A significant advancement for the RAF, the Protector can be operated globally from RAF Waddington, featuring ‘detect and avoid’ technology that enables it to fly in busy airspace. Its automatic takeoff and landing capabilities reduce the footprint compared to previous platforms like the Reaper.

The Protector’s payload includes a suite of advanced sensors, such as a High-Definition Electro-Optical and Infra-Red camera.

MALE

Most European ISR capabilities rely on non-European Union manufacturers, impacting Europe’s strategic autonomy. To address this, Germany, France, Spain, and Italy, under the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) MALE RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft System) Preliminary Design project, are developing the European MALE RPAS (Eurodrone) to secure European strategic sovereignty.

The MALE RPAS will enhance international conflict prevention and crisis management, particularly in ISTAR roles. It is Europe’s first large UAV programme designed for integration into civil air traffic and non-segregated airspace.

Since its 2016 launch, the programme has met key milestones, including a successful Definition Study and System Design Reviews by 2018. A contract with Airbus Defence and Space GmbH, alongside Airbus Defence and Space S.A.U, Leonardo, and Dassault, was signed on February 24, 2022 for 20 systems, including 60 aircraft and 40 Ground Control Stations.

Insitu ScanEagle

ScanEagle, the UAS that pioneered agile ISR, has redefined long-endurance Group 2 UAS capabilities. It offers superior operational reliability with advanced payload options and rapid integration.

ScanEagle delivers persistent ISR both day and night in extreme environments, providing high-resolution digital full-motion video. Its heavy-fuel propulsion extends endurance without adding payload weight. The UAS ensures stable air-to-ground communications up to 55 nautical miles, with encrypted data links for enhanced security.

Watchkeeper

Thales’ Watchkeeper, the UK’s first proven UAS, enhances real-time situational awareness and reduces risk. It has supported operations in Afghanistan and is the first UK UAS to fly with manned aircraft in civilian airspace.

The Watchkeeper, awarded Release to Service (RTS), features a Ground Control Station for independent or C4I network operations and can re-task mid-flight. It carries advanced HD electro/optical, infrared, and laser payloads, with Thales I-Master Radar providing SAR and Ground Moving Target Indicator (GMTI) capabilities for precise mapping and target tracking.

Navigating UAV Challenges Ahead

The rapid evolution of UAVs brings major advancements across various industries, yet it also presents new challenges. Regulations governing airspace use, privacy concerns due to high-resolution imaging, and safety issues related to shared airspace must be carefully managed.

Technical challenges, such as battery life, weather impacts, and signal interference, can affect UAV performance.

Addressing these concerns is crucial for the continued integration and effectiveness of UAV technology.

Despite these hurdles, the ongoing development of UAVs promises innovative solutions and transformative potential, underscoring their growing role in modern operations and industry applications.

(Get ready: Unmanned Maritime Vehicles set sail in our next issue)

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