The Benefits of Employing Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Low Intensity and Irregular Conflict Scenarios
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Major
Political Science
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to explore whether UAVs provide a more effective and affordable alternative to supporting troops on the ground in low intensity and asymetrical conflict scenarios than manned aircraft. This was done through a comparative analysis of the costs and capabilities of manned and unmanned aircraft using USAF budget data, performance details, and operational reports. Upon examination of UAVs and manned aircraft employed in low intensity conflict areas like Afghanistan, it becomes clear that the USAF could benefit greatly by increasing the size of its UAV fleet, while reserving its manned fleet for high intensity conflict that demand their enhanced performance characteristics.
Faculty Mentor
Dan Caldwell
Funding Source or Research Program
Political Science Honors Program
Presentation Session
Session A
Location
Plaza Classroom 190
Start Date
21-3-2014 4:15 PM
The Benefits of Employing Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Low Intensity and Irregular Conflict Scenarios
Plaza Classroom 190
The purpose of this research is to explore whether UAVs provide a more effective and affordable alternative to supporting troops on the ground in low intensity and asymetrical conflict scenarios than manned aircraft. This was done through a comparative analysis of the costs and capabilities of manned and unmanned aircraft using USAF budget data, performance details, and operational reports. Upon examination of UAVs and manned aircraft employed in low intensity conflict areas like Afghanistan, it becomes clear that the USAF could benefit greatly by increasing the size of its UAV fleet, while reserving its manned fleet for high intensity conflict that demand their enhanced performance characteristics.