Report on UAV Technologies and Combat Operations. Volume 1. Summary.

Abstract
The Air Force has entered an era in which the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) has become not only acceptable, but desirable, for long-endurance reconnaissance missions. Many of the requisite technologies are mature; others need additional development. Moreover, there appears to be greater acceptance of UAVs in the conduct of Air Force mission tasks. The study group observed the need for an evolutionary approach to introducing the UAV into the Air Force mission, with special consideration given to UAV operation as complementary to manned aircraft. Such an approach will allow technical obstacles to be overcome as well as rules and concepts to be developed for successful integration of UAVs into the civil and military airspace environment and into operational tactics. The study group concluded that a number of key missions should be pursued as development and demonstration programs by the Air Force. These programs will serve to establish the utility of the UAV and to help develop the operational concepts. An example point design-a Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) UAV with a roadmap for programmatic accomplishment-is provided along with a recommendation that a SEAD demonstration program be pursued. Some special subjects are presented, followed by overall recommendations and concluding remarks.

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