UAV As A Wingman: A Vision for the Future of Manned- Unmanned Teaming

摘要

Both the US Army s Longbow Apache helicopter and its newest helicopter, the Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH), have solid requirements to control Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in the near future. Technology advances have made such control possible, and demonstration programs have shown the value. But neither the technology nor the demonstrations have provided efficient and effective manned-unmanned teaming. Significant advances in autonomy are required. This paper will lay out a brief history of autonomy development in military aviation, for both manned and unmanned aircraft. A working definition of autonomy by the federal ad hoc working group on Autonomy Levels for Unmanned Systems (ALFUS) is discussed. A vision for the future of manned-unmanned teaming is given, neatly captured by the phrase "UAV As A Wingman." A process is outlined for refining the vision within the context of future Army operations, as well as future joint and coalition operations.