Identification of the Cognitive, Psychomotor, and Psychosocial Skill Demands of Uninhabited Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) Operators

摘要

Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles extend tactical the range of aircraft mission options. Although certain cultural barriers exist with regard to complete acceptance of remotely controlled aircraft, the UCAV will become an essential part of many Air Forces in the years to come. A critical factor to the success of UCAV missions is the optimal selection of operators. This paper explores options for improving the selection and training of UCAV operators and reviews test that may be useful toward an improved screening system. Emphasis is placed upon the assessment of decision-making ability, personality factors, and related cognitive attributes with recommendations for future research directions. In the interest of identifying a valid UCAV test battery that will reliably predict successful completion of both UCAV training and operational performance, program managers are encouraged to consider funding selection programs that evaluate psychological measures of individual differences, in addition to the standard psychomotor coordination measures.