BAE hopes Taranis will prove a catalyst to breakthrough in combat technology

摘要

Unmanned combat air systems (UCAS) look all but certain to play a part in future offensive operations, but considerable work remains to be done to demonstrate that such technology - plus concepts of operation and regulations surrounding its use - can be effectively employed in a combat scenario. The UK's Taranis demonstrator is a perfect example of the challenges facing this autonomous corner of future air combat. Jointly funded by the UK Ministry of Defence and partners including BAE Systems and Rolls-Royce, the activity remains shrouded in secrecy, almost three years after the stealthy air vehicle made its flight debut.